A roofing project might be difficult to plan, especially when it’s your first time. The most important aspect is locating a reliable roofing contractor. There are numerous roofing companies in the industry, and selecting the right one might be difficult if you don’t know what to look for.
Are you getting ready to meet with the roof replacement contractors who offered you quotes? If so, do you know what questions you should ask? Potential roofers can be screened for their qualifications and experience by asking them certain questions during your consultations.
To help you hire the best roofer for your project, Next Level Roofers shares 10 of the most critical questions to ask a potential roofing contractor.
1. What Is Your Full Company Name and Physical Address?
Ensure that the roofing contractor you are eyeing doesn’t use a Post Office box as its mailing address. A roofing contractor without a physical office is a red flag, so you should proceed with caution. Take their company name and address and verify it using the Better Business Bureau website, social networking sites and other online databases. While searching online, you will likely discover any potential red flags about the contractor.
Local roofing companies are always a good choice when looking for professional services. A professional roofing contractor from your area is extremely beneficial, especially when you need emergency storm repairs. You can depend on a local contractor to recommend the correct roofing material for your home based on the weather conditions it is exposed to all year round.
2. Do You Have a License?
Roofers and building contractors may claim to be qualified. But if they can’t show proof of their credentials, consider it a red flag. A license is also required in some states before a roofing contractor can work, though the requirements may vary by location.
3. Are You Insured?
While most states mandate contractors to have workers’ compensation insurance, it’s always a good idea to double-check. Some roofing contractors may choose to take their chances and not carry this insurance, so if an injury occurs on your property, you may be held accountable. Make sure your roof replacement contractor has this coverage for their staff to protect yourself from additional expenses.
4. Do You Hire Subcontractors?
Subcontractors may be hired by roofing contractors to complete complex work on time. You should ask your contractor about this, so you can also vet the subcontractor and know the specific tasks they will be responsible for.
5. Do You Offer a Warranty?
Be sure your new roof comes with a warranty. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing that your roof will be covered in case it turns out to have manufacturing defects. Another type of warranty that you should look for is the workmanship warranty. This warranty covers the repair or installation errors by the contractor you hired for the job. Don’t forget to read the warranty documents so you know exactly what you’re getting, what is covered, and how long your roof or the work will be covered.
6. How Will You Protect My Property During the Project?
When working on your roof, a professional roofing company should take every precaution to protect your home from damage.
Talking about the safety measures used by the roof replacement company to protect your grass, landscaping and light fixtures is an important question to ask any potential roofing contractor. For instance, to keep your landscaping safe, they can drape a tarp from the gutters angled toward a dump tarp on the ground.
It’s important to read the fine print of your agreement with your contractor as unscrupulous companies will try to slip language saying they won’t be accountable for any damage during the project. When replacing a roof, it is essential to take precautions to prevent damage to your property.
7. Can You Provide Me With a Written Quotation?
After an inspection, reputable roofers usually offer a quote that includes all of the projected expenses, such as the cost of materials, labor and other services they may provide. It should also specify the timeframe for your project. Be sure to have these details in writing so that they can’t just change the prices or schedule or add costs along the way.
8. What Happens to the Project During Bad Weather?
You can’t control the weather. If the task has already begun and it begins to rain or snow, it will have to be halted. Roofing contractors must assure you that they have a plan in place for dealing with any problems that may arise due to severe weather.
9. Can You Give Me References?
It is important to check the references of your potential roofers before hiring them. You should need all contractors who bid on your work to provide you with references from works they’ve completed in the last three to six months. A reliable roofing company would have no problem providing you with references upon your request. Talking to the contractor’s previous customers is a great way to check if the contractor is being honest with you.
10. Do You Have a Project Manager That I Can Talk to When I Have Questions?
When you can’t be at the job site to keep an eye on things or you have other commitments, finding a roofing expert or foreman you can trust to answer your queries is essential. To find out more about the status of your project, work schedule or anything else, you should ask the foreman or the project manager.
It can be overwhelming to choose only one contractor among several potential roofers. Fortunately, with Next Level Roofers, the choice is easy to make. With over 39 years of combined experience in the roofing industry, our team can provide you with top-notch customer service and excellent workmanship. We specialize in shingle roofs, flat roofs and new construction roofs. Call us at (407) 237-7960 or fill out our contact form to book an appointment. We look forward to working with you!
