7 Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor Before Hiring
Is it finally time to replace your roof? Getting a new roof is one of the most expensive improvements you can make to your home. You want to be sure that the roofer you hire is the right one for the job. Here are 7 essential questions to ask the roofers who you have contacted to supply you with an estimate.
- Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured? This may seem like a no-brainer but not all roofers meet these criteria. Getting licensed isn’t that difficult, you simply must register with the state board of licensing contractors. Being bonded is much more important. A bond covers you in the event the roofer goes out of business before finishing the job or there is a problem with the quality of their work. If so, you the customer can fall back on the bond company. The roofing contractor you choose should be fully insured with general liability insurance, workman’s compensation, and all vehicles should be properly insured.
- How Many Years Have You Been in Business? It’s always a good idea to choose an established company. That is not to say all young companies aren’t good at what they do, but an experienced company has already learned how to survive and thrive over time and will likely be here down the road if you have more roofing needs.
- Explain Your Warranties on Workmanship. You should look for two warranties, one on the roofing materials and the other on the roofer’s workmanship. A roofer that uses sub-grade materials will likely only offer warranties for several years. An experienced roofer may offer warranties for 5, 10 or even 25 years. And always get the warranty in writing!
- Who Can I Talk to if I have a Problem? If you can’t speak directly with the owner don’t hire that roofing company. It’s just that simple. Being pawned off on someone in the office with no authority will only lead to frustration.
- Will You Supply Me with References on Request? Ask the roofers you are considering to provide you with 4 or 5 references from jobs done in the past couple of years. Ideally, it could be someone in your neighborhood. If you can’t get good references don’t even consider hiring that company.
- How Will You Protect My Property and Clean Up? A conscientious roofer will take steps to ensure that your lawn, foliage, light fixtures, and other property will be covered and protected. Ask specifically if they are responsible for any damage and ask to see it in their contract.
- Is the Roofer Certified by the Shingle Manufacturers They Use? Shingle companies choose the best contractors in any given area and put them through their certification process. This allows those contractors to provide the best warranties on materials. Ask to see the certification.
Since 1984 Bowles Roofing has provided expert roofing services to homeowners and businesses throughout North Central Florida and North Florida. When it comes time to repair or replace your roof, call or contact us. We’d be proud to serve you.