After comparing bids and interviewing several roofers, I now know that there are more things to cover then I always had in mind. However, the more knowledgeable you are about roofing, the smarter you will be when choosing a reputable roofing contractor.
Attempting to replace the roof can be very expensive for anyone. The average cost of a new roof is between $11,209 and $17,060. Your home is one of your biggest assets, so make sure you choose the right roofer that will give you quality work.
Once you’ve narrowed down your roofing choice, do these five essentials before signing a roofing contract.
1. Check the roofers instead of business
Any reputable roofer should have an established office where you can visit during office hours. Beware of those roofers who work out of a junk yard or in a cart. Visiting their office will give you a good idea if the company is professional and not just a fly-by-night shelter.
2. Check the references
Like any job interviewer, you should ask your prospective interviewer for at least three criteria. These so-called references will provide you with insight into the company’s reputation and the way it does business. Sometimes customers are satisfied with a previous roofer’s work, but never use them or refer them to anyone else. Previous clients report that the roofing contractor was always late, rude, or didn’t clean up properly after the job was done. Small insights like this before signing a contract with any roofer can be crucial.
3. License and insurance check
Not all states require a roofer to be licensed. If you happen to require a license in your state, check the roofer’s number with your state agency, or request a copy of the license to be active. Without a doubt, any roofing contractor you choose should be satisfied. Ask for proof of insurance from the roofer and from any subcontractor who may work on your roof. If you use an unqualified roofer or subcontractor, you may incur any injuries to your roof.
4. Background check
Visiting the Business Bureau will at least give you a point of reference where you can check the report. he covered the contractor. BBB ratings are determined by how long a business has been operating and its rerun history for three years, among other things. If you find a complaint about a roofing history, the BBB will review the nature of the complaint and how it was determined. This will be as important information as you decide to protect yourself.
5. Check what you are writing
Read, read, read your contract before signing anything. Your contract should accurately include materials used, warranty coverage, and installation methods for your roof. If the contractor promises you something by mouth, then he should not have the problem of printing it. Your contract is a binding agreement that can be used in a court of law, so make sure you understand everything first. signing on the line.
Sources:
http://www.costhelper.com/cost/home-garden/roof.html
http://www.roofhelp.com/state_licensing_requirements.htm
http://www.contractors-license.org/
http://www.bbb.org/us/Find-Business-Reviews/
