Has the time come for a new roof on your home or business? You may assume that all contractors are created equal, but that’s simply not the case. Below are things to keep in mind as you go through the re-roofing process:
- Beware of fly-by-night operations. After a storm, contractors will suddenly appear out of the blue to offer their services. The problem is that once the work is done, they vanish. So if any problems with the work should arise, there’s little chance for a remedy.
- Pay for the work when it’s done, not beforehand. It’s fine to submit a deposit, but never pay for the full project until it’s completed to your satisfaction.
- Don’t sign anything until you’re ready to hire the company. Also, be sure to get a copy of anything and everything you do sign.
- A reputable contractor will provide you with a written description of all of the work that will be done, the quality of materials, the start and completion dates, and the estimated cost of the job.
- Does the contractor have references to share with you? If so, this is a good sign. But follow through by contacting all of them — especially the ones that had similar work done to yours.
- Make sure the contract includes the name, physical address and phone number of the company.
- The contractor shouldn’t ask for cash; look for one that prefers a check or credit card.
- The contractor should be able to show you his or her license from the state in which you’re located. Also, make sure the license is up to date.
- Go with the company that has worker’s compensation for all of its employees. If you hire a company that doesn’t have this insurance, it could cost you dearly should something go wrong on your property.
- Make sure the contractor also has liability insurance. This has nothing to do with injuries, but will protect your physical property if it’s damaged during the roofing process.
- Ask the contractor if they’ll use ladder stabilizers or standoffs. This will protect your gutters from weight damage, which can result in a completely torn-up gutter system.
- Do they bring a container for the materials that will be brought down? It needs to go somewhere, so a reputable contractor will have a place to put it.
- Ask what happens during a rainstorm or other bad weather. You’ll want to go with a contractor who has thought ahead of time and is equipped with tarps or plastic covers.
- Ask how the contractor plans to protect your landscaping. You may not be thinking of the ground when you’re having roofing work done, but the workers will be going to and from the roof consistently. Ask ahead of time what will happen if your flowerbeds or bushes are damaged in the process.
- Finally, get the name and number of the person in charge. There should be someone on site who can answer any questions or concerns you have — and if there isn’t, call the company to rectify the situation immediately.
For more information about how to hire a roofing contractor, call our team today. We’re here to help!
