Hiring a Roofer?
Make Sure you are asking the right questions!
Remember! This is your roof and is one of the largest investments you can do on your home.
Interview your roofer! This may seem logical but many people become enamored with the selection of materials.
-
Are they licensed and insured?
-
How long have they been in business?
-
How many workers on their crew?
What does your gut say?
They say that when you go with your instinct, you are usually correct! How is the communication with your estimator? Does he seem honest? Is he telling you how honest he is? Is he making eye contact with you? Is he taking notes?
Are they more concerned with selling, or educating you?
In the roofing business, the majority of complaints have nothing to do with the materials. Complaints come from workmanship issues! Instead of asking "What colors do you have?" Ask if the contractor "If they have had issues in the past and how have they dealt with them?
​
​
What should be on the roofing estimate?
Many contractors only list the total amount for the project, but there's so much more involved! Make sure you are asking about these additional line items as well.
-
​Materials (what types? get specifics on underlayment, flashing, shingles, and ventilation)
-
Labor (how many workers for how long?)
-
Specific payment terms?
-
Provisions for work order changes, how much if something comes up?
-
Lein release if the contractor doesn't pay his subcontractor or supplier
-
Termination Clause: reasons to end the agreement with or without fees or penalties if the contract terms are violated.
​
What is your roofer doing on you roof?
Make sure you go through a thorough checklist before you choose a roofer!
Interviewing your contractor can yield you the best result. Price and materials aren't the only things to consider anymore. If a contractor's price seems like a great deal, the materials could be of a lower quality. If the price is too high the contractor could be using higher grade materials than what you need or they could be cheating you!?! Make sure you do your homework, see at least 3 contractors, and make the best educated decision you can!
​