Time for a new roof? Investing in a roof replacement is a big decision, which means you’ll undoubtedly want to hire the best contractor for the job. But if you’ve never hired a roofing contractor in the past, it can be difficult to know what to look for. Before you make an expensive investment, heed the following tips from our team at Bert Roofing:
Take a Look at Past Work
Can the roofing contractor showcase proof of their past work? For reputable, honest contractors, reputation is paramount, which means they’ll gladly deliver examples of past jobs when asked. You should also be able to find a gallery of past jobs somewhere on their website or on a major search engine. The internet is a great place to do your detective work, and if you cannot find examples of past work or customer reviews, be wary. Before you make a substantial investment, do your homework!
Ask About Insurance and Licensing
Reputable roofing contractors should hold the proper permits and licenses for any job they’re prepared to undertake. Insurance coverage is also paramount. As a responsible homeowner, you should never allow an uninsured contractor to perform work on your home. If the company cannot furnish proof of insurance for all of its employees, you may be putting yourself in a precarious situation if you hire them.
Consider Reputation and Customer Reviews
Ask the company how long they’ve been in business. If it’s been several years (and they’re worth their weight), they should have numerous reviews indicating the quality of their workmanship and customer service. Look for companies that have been in business for many years and have the track record to prove it. Check out the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau, and if you can’t find one, ask about it.
Many unscrupulous roofing companies are notorious for closing up shop after fighting a lawsuit, only to reopen months down the road under a new company name. The last thing you need is to get scammed by one of these contractors, so always do your due diligence. If you can get a company referral from a homeowner you know and trust, that’s almost always a safe bet.
Get Several Estimates
Before you decide on a roofing contractor, gather estimates and thoroughly discuss your needs with each potential candidate. Many professionals recommend getting at least three roofing estimates, but there’s really no reason you need to stop there. If you don’t feel good about the quotes you receive, keep looking until you feel you’ve gathered all of the information you require to make an informed decision.
If, on the other hand, you feel confident in the first or second estimate you receive, and the contractors are transparent about their process and what you can expect, follow your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, or you feel as though the contractors are vague or confusing, your instinct will serve you well.
Ask for Written Agreements
Your roof is a major investment, whether you’re having a few simple repairs or replacing the entire structure. As such, be sure to get all agreements in writing so you have a thorough understanding and explicit proof of the terms you and the contractor agreed upon. A trustworthy roofing company will gladly appoint someone to thoroughly explain each section of the contract and answer any questions you may have.
No matter how great a verbal agreement sounds, you cannot hold a company accountable without written proof. If the company is not willing to agree to written terms or leaves any part of the contract confusing or vague, walk away.
Double Check Guarantees and Warranties
What happens if you’re not satisfied with the work? Does the company offer a satisfaction guarantee? Will the roofing contractors make repairs if they accidentally damage something during the job?
No matter how carefully the contractors (or you) plan out the job, there’s always the chance that an error will occur. If such a situation were to arise, you need to know whether you’re protected, as well as how the company handles these types of occurrences. Be sure to inquire about the company’s guarantee policy, as well as any warranties offered on materials or workmanship so you know what to expect.
Check for Certification and Authorizations
Does the roofing company carry certifications that indicate industry-standard training and experience? Are they an authorized installer for a particular manufacturer’s products? Do they partner with specific manufacturers? These are critical considerations since many manufacturers will refuse to honor materials warranties if their products were not installed by authorized installers. Whenever you get an estimate from a roofing company, ask whether they are a preferred partner of any materials manufacturers or whether they have authorization to install the type of roofing you desire.
Need a Roof Replacement? Contact Bert Roofing
If your home is due for a new roof, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Bert Roofing. For over 20 years, we’ve proudly served the Dallas area with high-quality, cost-effective roof installation, repairs, and maintenance, and we’re here to serve you too. For your convenience, we offer free, same-day estimates, and as always, we’re more than willing to answer any questions you may have. To schedule your inspection or learn more about our services, contact our team today.