Find the best roofing contractor near you
Are you looking for a roofer in your area? You’ve come to the right place! We know that choosing a roofer is not an easy decision to make but, we are here to help you with some of our tips.
Finding an inexpensive roofer is quite easy but not always the best decision to make. Most of the time you will end up paying more in the long term because of a poorly executed job. Don’t forget, roofs are a very important part of the buildings as they protect the inside from various elements, such as rain, snow, dust, etc.
So, if the outside of your home is well maintained and properly constructed, then the inside of your home will be protected too. Your building’s roofing system is only as good as the installation and the materials used. That’s why it is important to choose professional contractors when repairing or installing a new roof and good quality products.
Make sure to do your research! You can reach out to several contractors, get estimates, meet with them in person, ask about the materials and products they use, their techniques, fees, and warranties. If possible you could also ask to see other installations they have done.
Take your time, repairing or installing a roof is a big investment and you want to get it done right.
Let’s dive in.
#1 Certifications & Training
Don’t be afraid to ask your potential roofing contractors what training they have been through.
It’s your home and the roof is an important part of protecting it, so you have to make sure you are hiring the right people.
#2 Insurance
Make sure that your contractor has worker’s compensation and liability insurance. Worker’s compensation means that if a contractor is injured on the job, they will provide coverage- you don’t want to be liable for that. On the other hand, general liability insurance protects your home in case of damages from the contractor while completing work.
#3 Check for Licenses
It is essential that you choose a qualified and licensed roofing contractor, not only because roof work can be dangerous but also because if an unqualified person works on your roof he might do more harm than good and cost you far more money.
In some areas, there is no requirement for roofing contractors to have licenses. Even if that is true in your area, I still recommend picking a contractor who has one anyway.
A license means the roofer is serious about their work and is up-to-date on all the requirements to perform their job properly.
#4 Create a Contract
A written contract protects you as the homeowner. The formal contract should clearly outline payment schedules, roofing materials used (brand, type, and color), and a list of subcontractors.
Having a list of the materials being used is really important. Plus a start and end date and details about removing the old roof and inspection of the existing roof, repair or replacement.
The contract should also include details on how the garden and landscaping will be protected, who is responsible for the cleanup, and any damages to property or your neighbor’s that may occur during the work. If a contractor doesn’t want to provide a formal contract, time for you to find someone else.
#5 Check for Permits
A building permit is required in most regions for all reroofing except for repairs totaling less than 100 square feet but always confirm with your local building authority.
As the owner of the building, it is your responsibility to ensure the proper permits are pulled and if the contractor advises you to skip that step I would say move to the next one on your list. As mentioned before, you have to make sure you are making the right decisions.
#6 No Cash Deals
I wouldn’t recommend closing a cash deal for the very simple reason that cash is not traceable. In the event of an issue or dispute documentation always wins, so remember the risk you would be taking.
#7 Pricing
When it comes to your roof, your decision should not be based on price alone. A professional roofer who has proper insurance will need to recover their costs through their roofing jobs. The price you will be paying not only will cover their insurance and labor hours but also the materials used. Choosing the most inexpensive contractor is a common mistake. Sometimes the easy choice but not always the best as in the end you will probably end up paying more.
#8 Educate Yourself
At the end is the building we are talking about. You need to understand what is being done to your roof. Is it just minor repairs or do you have structural or moisture damage from a recent storm? Understanding that allows you to check the progress of the contractor’s work and ensure they are doing things correctly.
Also, think about safety. Remember, one of the first steps is to confirm that the contractor will have his own liability insurance; however, the team is on your property so make sure you have the necessary insurance to ensure you are covered for any accidents that may occur.
Workers need to be wearing the proper fall arrest protection and be hooked into an anchor point. This is a secure point usually on the roof where the harness line is securely anchored to prevent serious injury if a fall occurs.
Safety first!
#9 You Must Their Online Presence
Nowadays everything is online. You can check the quality of a roofing service provider online by checking their google my business reviews, checking their social media accounts, and any other official government website.
If you check the reviews of a restaurant before you eat there, shouldn’t you check online reviews for a roofing contractor?
You should also check their website and their past work. A well-mainteaned website shows that the owner cares about their work and their reputation.
#10 Take Your Time
Finding a roofing contractor is not an easy thing to do. Roofing is an investment that will protect your property and you don’t want to rush into it since it’s not something you want to be doing every once in a while! Take your time and do your research. You will want to work with an experienced roofing company that will deliver high-quality results. You can also search on the Consumer Beware List and the Better Business Bureau for any alerts, complaints, or charges.
If you have any questions about roofing don’t hesitate to contact us at Max Roofing. Our experienced and trained staff is more than willing to help you out with fixing, repairing, or building you a new roof.
