Roofing Contractors – Things to Consider.
by Cascade United Roofing
Things to Consider When Hiring a Roofing Contractor
There are several things to consider when looking for a roofing contractor that will meet your needs. Installing a new roof is one of the most important, and expensive home improvement projects that you will invest in as a homeowner. You will want a well-thought-out plan and some simple guidelines to follow to approach your roofing endeavor.
1. Do your research. Ask homeowners in the neighborhood, friends, family and relatives if they have any recommendations of roofing contractors that provided a positive and professional experience. There are many cites on the web that will help guide you towards a reputable company such as, Angie’s List, Google Reviews, and Better Business Bureau.
2. Shop around. Get estimates based on the same specifications and materials. Check references that are at least one year old and inquire about how the work is holding up. Be wary of bids that seem too high or too low. Choosing a company based on a bidding difference of a couple hundred dollars is not a good idea.
3. Know the credentials. Make sure that you are familiar with what credentials are needed to complete your job and seek a company accordingly. Most states require a license and contractors should be willing to provide you with verification. If the contractor is connected with any trade association, you can contact the trade association directly.
4. Get it in writing. Require a written agreement with anyone that you hire. Be sure their name, address, license numbers, and phone number are included in the contract. Go through your contract line by line with your roofing contractor and make sure all of your questions are answered. This should not be a problem for the roofing contractor that you hire. It is your right to know and understand what you are signing. Make sure that you receive a copy of your signed contract at the time of signature.
5. Have a plan for payment. Never pay the full amount up front. It is common that there is a deposit paid toward your principle balance and this should be discussed ahead of time. It is a good idea to pay with a credit card so that in the worst-case scenario you can recover your money without expensive litigation. Negotiating a payment schedule that parallels the work being done is a frequent and accepted practice.
6. Trust your instincts. After following the above considerations, you will have a good idea of what is expected from your roofing contractor and be able to make the most informed decision. Remember that hiring a roofing contractor is not a short-term investment. You will want to trust the company that you hire to hold up their end of the bargain and be there for any issues that arise down the road. Warranties and guarantees can be anywhere from 5 to 40 years so you want a contractor that you can trust.
