|
Replacing your roof is one of the most important investments you can make for your home. In order to obtain the best return on this investment, there are various factors that need to be considered. One of the most important choices that need to be made is which contractor to hire. Since roofers vary in terms of experience, professionalism, cost and quality, it is critical to ask the right questions in order ensure that you are utilizing a qualified contractor.
This site allows you to compare multiple roofing quotes, but cost should not be the only factor that you take into consideration. The following key points should all be included in your decision making process:
- First, you should check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, tax identification number and, where applicable, a business license. Obtaining these basic details will help eliminate any illegitimate businesses.
- You do not want to be held liable for any accidents that occur on your property so insist on seeing the contractor’s proof of insurance, including liability coverage and workers’ compensation certificates. Also, make sure the coverage is in effect for the entire duration of the job.
- Have the contractor supply any licenses required by your state. Information about these requirements can be obtained from your state’s Department of Professional Regulation or Licensing Board. Confirm the status of their license and its expiration date. It’s important to note that freerooferquotes.com only allows insured and licensed contractors into our network.
- The contractor should also list the roofing manufacturers with which they are a licensed or approved installer. Most roofing systems require special application expertise to ensure the highest quality installation of their product.
- Perform due diligence regarding the contractor’s reputation. You can contact the Better Business Bureau in your area as well as request a list of recent client references from the contractor. Check with these references to find out if they were completely satisfied. Additionally, you should find out how long the contractor has been in business to gauge their experience.
- Insist on a written proposal and review it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications. Make sure it includes starting and completion dates, payment procedures and any additional issues such as debris cleanup and disposal.
- Carefully review any warranties that are offered from the contractor as well as those offered by the manufacturer. Question any provisions that may void eligibility.
- Gauge the contractors’ professionalism and commitment to their trade. You can accomplish this by asking if they are a member of any regional or national industry associations such as the NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association). You can also inquire about any safety training or industry-related education programs they provide for their workers.
- Ask the contractor about their project supervision and quality control procedures to find out how their workers will operate. You may also want to ask how many workers will be on the job.
- Inquire about any maintenance programs that the contractor offers. Many roofing contractors will provide periodic maintenance inspections to help ensure that your roof complies with the standards specified in the warranty. This service usually includes a detailed visual examination of the roof and related components to identify any potential trouble areas.
- Find out whether the contractor will use a sub-contractor for any aspect of the roof installation. If so, you should conduct the same line of questioning for the subcontractor.
|