How to Find Trustworthy and Reliable Roofers
Personal recommendations from friends and family can help you find a reputable roofer. In addition, you should also check their online reviews and verify they have Worker’s Compensation and General Liability insurance.
Ask the roofers to provide a detailed written estimate, including all materials and specific costs, without hidden fees. Also, make sure they are local, as this will be important if you need to contact them.
Get Recommendations
Your roof protects your home, and a properly installed and maintained roof can boost its curb appeal, durability, and value. It is a significant investment, and you want to select the right professional.
Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations, or check online reviews on websites. Look for a roofer with a high overall rating and specific recent local reviews.
Reputable roofers should also provide a detailed written estimate for the scope of work, including materials and total cost, without hidden fees. They should also offer strong manufacturer guarantees that cover shingles for 30 years or more and an artistry guarantee. Be wary of contractors that provide only good reviews, as this can be a red flag.
Check Online Reviews
Online reviews are a great way to learn more about a company without asking for personal recommendations or hearing from friends and family. Checking the Better Business Bureau and other review websites can help determine if a roofing contractor is legitimate.
Reputable roofers should also be able to provide you with a warranty for their work. They may be able to discuss this with you in person or will have a page on their website that provides this information.
Whether you have roof repairs or need to install a new roof, finding a reliable and trustworthy roofing contractor is essential to restoring your home’s functionality and beauty. The tips above can help you make the best decision possible when hiring a roofer.
Check Licenses and Insurance
Whether you need a total roof replacement or just repairs, ensure your contractors have the proper licensing to work in your state. They must also have insurance to cover any injuries or property damage that might occur during the job.
It would help if you were wary of contractors asking for a cash deposit or promising to waive your insurance deductibles. They may be storm chasers looking to take advantage of people frantically trying to repair their homes after a natural disaster.
A good roofing contractor will have a written proposal confirming pricing and including a project timeline. By doing this, everyone will be able to stay on schedule and prevent any unneeded delays or surprises. It should also include a mechanic’s lien clause that protects homeowners from unpaid contractors.
Ask About Manufacturer Certifications
When choosing a roofer, you want to ensure they are certified by the manufacturers of the roofing materials they use. This will allow you to receive strong guarantees from the manufacturer and any limited warranties offered by the roofer.
Checking for these certifications is necessary because it shows they are serious about quality work and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. In addition, this also allows you to know that they have the proper training in roofing and health and safety.
Licensed roofers are more likely to be honest and upfront about their qualifications, insurance, pricing, and other vital issues. They will not feel insulted by your questions and may even welcome them. This will make it easier for you to find the best roofer and avoid scams.
Get a Contract
Plenty of horror stories of fly-by-night roofers swooping in on property owners, pressuring them into signing contracts and demanding large down payments before disappearing with the money. Avoid these types of contractors by ensuring that the contractor you hire has a local presence and is insured for liability and worker’s comp.
It would help if you also asked for a detailed, written estimate that includes the full scope of work, specific materials, and a total cost without hidden fees. It would help if you verified that the roofing company offers strong manufacturer warranties to ensure they’ll return to repair any problems that might arise after your warranty period.
Choosing the right roofing contractor is an important decision that will affect your home’s safety, curb appeal, and value. Proper research can help you find a trustworthy, reliable roofer to avoid getting stuck with a half-finished project and tarps strewn across your lawn for weeks.