Choosing a Professional Roofing Contractor

The local news will periodically have stories about fly-by-night roofing contractors. Some of these take the money and run while others do a shoddy job that causes more problems than the homeowners had in the first place. Due to the risk, your selection of a contractor to repair or replace your roof is especially important. Carefully consider the contractor’s qualifications and work history.

 

Qualifications

Ensure that the contractor you hire is licensed. Ask if the contractor belongs to a trade association. Has the contractor taken continuing education training? Call the trade association, and ask to see records documenting continuing education.

 

Make sure the contractor has a permanent place of business. You need a contractor who has the financial ability to handle your roofing work. Visit their office to see if the contractor appears to have the personnel and equipment necessary.

 

Hire a contractor with insurance coverage, and make sure they have sufficient insurance. Obtain a certificate of insurance as it will provide the information that you should know. Ask if the contractor has workers’ compensation coverage.

 

Workmanship

Ask to see the contractor’s safety plan. These plans are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and this will provide an indication of the professionalism of the contractor.

 

Ask about the terms of the contractor’s warranty. Be sure to inquire about manufacturer specifications that must be met to qualify for product warranty.

 

Work History and Customer Service

Find out when the contractor began doing roof work. You want an experienced contractor. Obtain references from customers, and ask to see photographs of the contractor’s work. Check the Better Business Bureau reports on the contractor.

 

It is wise to obtain written bids from three contractors. If something is telling you that you shouldn’t hire a contractor, don’t. With a home repair as important as repairing or replacing your roofing, you need to feel very good about the contractor you choose.