9 Expert Tips to Choosing Roofing Contractor | By RNC Roofing

9 Expert Tips to Choosing a Roofing Contractor

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1.) Check For Licensing and Insurance

Choosing a roofing contractor is critical to ensuring that your project is completed safely, professionally, and to code. Here are some reasons why licensing and insurance matter:

  • Protects You from Liability: Hiring an uninsured contractor may leave you responsible for any accidents, injuries, or damages that occur during the project.
  • Ensures Compliance with Building Codes: Licensed contractors are required to follow specific building codes and regulations, ensuring that your roofing project is up to code.

Guarantees Quality Work: Licensed contractors are required to meet certain standards of workmanship, ensuring that your project is completed professionally and to a high standard.

How to Verify a Contractor’s Licensing and Insurance

  • Before hiring a roofing contractor, it’s essential to verify that they have the necessary licensing and insurance. Here are some steps to follow:
  • Ask for Proof: Ask the contractor to provide proof of their licensing and insurance. They should be able to provide you with copies of their licenses and insurance policies.
  • Verify the Information: Check with your local licensing board and insurance companies to ensure that the contractor’s information is valid and up-to-date.
  • Check for Proper Coverage: Make sure that the contractor’s insurance policy covers the type of work that you need to be done. For example, if you need a new roof installed, make sure that their policy covers roofing work.
roof installation , roof repair

2.)Look for Experience

Here is what to look for when researching roofing contractors:

  • Knowledge and Expertise: Experienced contractors have the knowledge and expertise necessary to tackle any roofing project, from repairs to installations.
  • Quality Workmanship: Contractors with years of experience have honed their skills and can provide high-quality workmanship, ensuring that your project is completed to a high standard.

Familiarity with Materials: Experienced contractors are familiar with a wide range of roofing materials and can help you choose the best one for your project, taking into consideration factors such as durability, cost, and aesthetics.

How to Evaluate a Contractor’s Experience

  • When evaluating a contractor’s experience, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to look for:
  • Years in Business: Ask how long the contractor has been in business. A contractor with several years of experience is likely to have a proven track record and a portfolio of successful projects.
  • Project History: Ask for examples of similar projects the contractor has completed in the past. This can help you determine if the contractor has experience with the specific type of work you need to be done.
  • Reviews and Testimonials: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous customers. This can give you insight into the contractor’s workmanship and customer service.
check for local reputation choosing roofing contractor

3.)Check for Local Reputation




When it comes to choosing a roofing contractor, their local reputation matters. Here are some reasons why:

 

  • Local Knowledge: Local contractors have a better understanding of the local weather conditions and building codes, which can affect the installation or repair of your roof.

 

  • Trust and Reliability: Contractors with a good local reputation have established a level of trust and reliability in the community. This can give you peace of mind knowing that your project is in good hands.

 

Accountability: Local contractors are more accountable for their work as they have a reputation to maintain within the community. This means that they are more likely to provide quality workmanship and customer service.

 

How to Research a Contractor’s Local Reputation:

 

  • Ask for References: Ask the contractor for references from previous customers in the local area. This can give you insight into their workmanship and customer service.

 

  • Check Online Reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Google, Yelp, and Angie’s List. Look for reviews specifically mentioning the contractor’s work in your local area.

 

  • Check with the Better Business Bureau: Check the contractor’s rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and any complaints or negative reviews filed against them.

 

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4.) Ask for References

When choosing a roofing contractor, references can give you valuable insights into their workmanship, communication, and professionalism. Here are some reasons why references matter:

 

  • Quality of Work: References can provide feedback on the quality of the contractor’s work and whether it met their expectations.

 

  • Communication and Professionalism: References can also provide insights into the contractor’s communication skills, timeliness, and overall professionalism.

 

  • Peace of Mind: By speaking to previous customers, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are choosing a contractor who has a track record of providing quality workmanship and customer service

 

How to Ask for and Evaluate References

 

  • Ask the Contractor: Ask the contractor for references from previous customers who have had similar roofing projects completed. Make sure to ask for references from recent projects, as older references may not be as relevant.

 

  • Contact References: Contact the references provided by the contractor and ask them about their experience working with the contractor. Be sure to ask specific questions about the quality of work, communication, and professionalism.

 

  • Check for Consistency: Look for consistency in the feedback provided by references. If multiple references mention the same strengths or weaknesses, this can give you a better idea of what to expect from the contractor.

 

get written estimates , choosing roofing contractor

5.) Get Written Estimates

When choosing a roofing contractor, it’s important to get written estimates from multiple contractors to compare their prices and services. Written estimates provide a clear breakdown of the work that needs to be done, the materials that will be used, and the cost of labor. This can help you avoid surprises and hidden costs later on. Additionally, written estimates can protect you if a contractor tries to change the price of the job mid-project.

 

How to compare written estimates

To effectively compare written estimates, it’s important to review each estimate carefully and compare the details side-by-side. Look for differences in the materials being used, the scope of work, and any additional services that may be included. Make sure you understand what is and isn’t included in each estimate. It’s also important to consider the contractor’s reputation, experience, and overall value for the price. Don’t automatically choose the lowest estimate, as it may not provide the best quality of work or use the highest-quality materials. Choose the estimate that offers the best value for your budget and needs.

 

dont pay up front , choosing roofing contractor

6.) Dont Pay Upfront

Why you shouldn’t pay upfront

  • It’s a red flag: A reputable contractor will not require full payment upfront.
  • Protect yourself from fraud: Paying upfront puts you at risk of losing your money without getting any work done.
  • Maintain control: Withholding payment until the work is complete ensures that you have some leverage to ensure the job is done right.

How to structure payment terms

  • Schedule payments: Break the payments down into installments so that the final payment is not due until the work is complete.
  • Get it in writing: Make sure to get a written contract that outlines the payment schedule and any other important terms.
  • Know your state laws: Some states have laws that limit the amount contractors can require upfront or that require certain payment schedules.

7.) Understand the Contract

When looking through contractors try to look for one who has the necessary certifications from the manufacturers of the roofing materials they use. These certifications show that the contractor has undergone specific training and is knowledgeable about the installation and maintenance of the materials.

How to Verify a Contractor’s Certifications

  • To verify a contractor’s certifications, you can start by checking their website or asking them directly for information about the certifications they hold. You can also check with the manufacturer of the roofing materials to see if the contractor is listed as a certified installer.
  • It’s important to note that not all roofing manufacturers offer certifications, so be sure to do your research beforehand and verify that the manufacturer in question does offer them. Additionally, certifications may be specific to certain types of roofing materials, so make sure the contractor is certified to install the type of roof you need.
manufacturer certifications

8.) Check for Manufacturer Certifications

It’s important to look for one who has the necessary certifications from the manufacturers of the roofing materials they use. These certifications show that the contractor has undergone specific training and is knowledgeable about the installation and maintenance of the materials.

How to Verify a Contractor’s Certifications

  • To verify a contractor’s certifications, you can start by checking their website or asking them directly for information about the certifications they hold. You can also check with the manufacturer of the roofing materials to see if the contractor is listed as a certified installer.
  • It’s important to note that not all roofing manufacturers offer certifications, so be sure to do your research beforehand and verify that the manufacturer in question does offer them. Additionally, certifications may be specific to certain types of roofing materials, so make sure the contractor is certified to install the type of roof you need.

9.) Ask About Workmanship Warranties

Without a workmanship warranty, you may be left responsible for any issues that arise after the completion of the project. This can be costly and time-consuming, as you may need to hire another contractor to fix the problems.

 

How to evaluate a contractor’s workmanship warranty offerings

  1. Length of the warranty: A longer warranty period is generally better, as it indicates that the contractor is confident in the longevity of their work.

  2. What is covered: Make sure you understand exactly what is covered by the warranty. Some warranties may only cover defects in workmanship, while others may cover damage caused by extreme weather conditions.

  3. Transferability: If you plan on selling your home in the future, a transferable warranty could be a valuable selling point.

  4. Exclusions: Be sure to read the fine print and understand any exclusions or limitations to the warranty.

 

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