5 Tips for Choosing Your Roofing Contractor

5 Tips for Choosing Your Roofing Contractor: People have always tried to find ways to protect themselves and their belongings from the elements, so building a good roof as well as perfecting the process, the materials, and the construction was always important. Across the world, the roof over one’s head symbolizes protection, safety, home, family, connection to higher powers, etc., which is why it inspires so many sayings and beliefs. In some cultures and religions, roofs were even built with different shapes and adorned in different ways according to their beliefs, especially on buildings that were considered important or sacred such as palaces or temples. This was often done to protect those under them from evil or bad fortune or to mark social status. 

Today generally architectural solutions have more to do with durability, resistance, practicality, convenience, and aesthetics than symbolism, superstitions, and beliefs but the importance of the part of a structure that provides shelter and covers buildings’ interiors is undeniable. So, when the roof on your house or your business premises no longer does the best job of protecting you, and it’s time to repair it or completely replace it, you must be cautious about your choice of a roofing contractor. 

With something that plays such a big role in your life, choosing randomly isn’t the smartest idea. But with so many contractors offering roofing services, how can you know which one is the right one? To help you learn what you should take into account and narrow down your options, we’ve prepared the following tips.

1. Check Their Insurance 

No matter how good a company you hire, during any type of construction work, there are many risks and many things may go wrong. Workers can get injured, they can make mistakes, damage your property, etc. This is why it’s important to know that if any type of accident happens, you won’t be the one paying for the consequences.

A construction business with insurance coverage for roofers can guarantee that you will be protected in such a case. These policies generally cover general liability, errors, and omissions, as well as coverage for equipment and tools. The roofer should also have a good workers’ compensation, in case a worker is hurt on your property, as well as any other type of insurance required by your state.

2. Check If They Are Legitimate

Different regions have different laws about construction businesses. Make sure that the roofer you want to hire is operating a legitimate business. They should have the necessary general and specialized licenses and permits to work on such projects. Once you know that the company has been able to comply with all the rules and regulations, you can be sure that they are trustworthy and reliable.

3. Ask for a Warranty

If there is an issue with your roof, you aren’t satisfied with the roof work or if it was installed improperly, you may want to complain and ask the roofer to repair their work. Keep in mind that it may take months or years before you become aware of an issue, as damages may take time to show. Reliable roofers offer warranties, and you will be able to hire them again if you discover any flaws. This means that you should avoid paying with cash because in case there is a dispute, you may not be able to prove anything.

4. Check Out Their Previous Projects and Read Reviews

While a new company without any projects behind them may turn up to be good – after all, we all have to start from somewhere –, it may be prudent to go for an experienced roofer. Look at their portfolio with their previous projects, and see what their previous clients have to say about their experiences with the contractor. 

5. Ask for a Written Contract 

Legitimate businesses shouldn’t have any issue with signing a contract with their clients, to ensure the safety of their clients as well as the quality of their work. Aside from the payment information, a contract should include details about the project, such as a start and end date, the materials that will be used, how disputes will be resolved, the competent authority, who will take care of the cleanup, how the rest of the property will be protected, the warranties they offer, and so on. 

The contract is crucial because if something doesn’t go as planned, it will protect you. If a roofing contractor refuses to provide a written contract, you shouldn’t even consider hiring them.

Final Thoughts

When you are choosing a roofer it’s important to take your time, compare different options, and learn as much as you can about them. With these tips, you should be able to make the right decision and get a roof in excellent condition.