Nowadays, it’s easy for homeowners to get a quote for their roof online. But reputable roofing contractors will take a holistic approach to your roof and will consider the many factors that determine cost.
Ask them if they are licensed, bonded and insured. This protects you in the event of a work-related injury to one of their employees on your property.
Experience
A roofing contractor should have years of experience and be able to provide reliable results. A reputable roofing contractor can help you stay within your budget and ensure that all work is completed on time. They can also offer warranties on their work.
Experienced roofing contractors are able to choose the best materials for your roof, depending on weather conditions and your personal preference. They can also install a wide variety of roofing systems, including metal, asphalt shingle, tile, and cedarwood shake.
You should also ask the roofing company how long they have been in business. If they are new, they may not have the resources to complete the job on time and might even fail.
A reputable roofing contractor should be able to give you references from past clients. They should also be able to answer your questions about their previous projects. They should be able to provide you with a detailed contract that outlines all aspects of the project and any additional services they will be providing.
License
In many places, including Oneida County and the City of Utica, roofing contractors are required to hold a business license. They should also have general liability and worker’s compensation insurance to protect homeowners from liability in the event of an accident on their property.
The contractor should be able to provide a detailed contract that outlines every aspect of the project, from start date to completion timeframe. They should also offer a manufacturer warranty to back their work.
Ask the roofer how they plan to handle potential hurdles that could impact the project’s timeline. Some contractors will outline a contingency plan, such as extra employees or backup materials, to ensure that the job is completed on time. Others will create traffic patterns to avoid walking on bushes or lawns, while still others have policies for waste removal and clean-up. Ask about all of these issues to avoid any surprises when it comes time for payment.
Insurance
Roofing is a dangerous occupation and there is always the potential for an employee to be injured on the job. Workers compensation insurance protects the company and the employees from lawsuits should an accident occur. It also covers medical expenses, disability benefits and lost wages. It is mandatory in most states and provinces for most businesses.
General liability insurance is another important piece of coverage for a roofer to have. This protects the company in the event of third-party bodily injury such as a pedestrian tripping over a ladder or falling shingles. It is also required in most areas for contractors to have builders risk insurance. This will protect a building while it is under construction from weather damage and vandalism.
Ask to see proof of coverage and verification that the policies are up to date. A good insurance broker will have the direct policy carrier names and phone numbers and can verify this information quickly.
Reputation
A reputable roofing contractor will have a solid track record to show for it. Asking about their past work is one way to gauge this, but it’s important to also look at whether they have any online reviews.
You’ll want to hire a roofing contractor that is local to your area. This will ensure that they know your area’s building codes and can be contacted if any issues arise during the repair process. Additionally, if the company outsources any tasks to subcontractors, you should check to make sure they have insurance and proper licensing.
Choosing the right roofing contractor can save you money in the long run. It’s worth taking the time to research a potential roofer and compare bids before making a final decision. Having a reliable roof over your head is essential for any home. If you are experiencing problems with your roof, don’t wait to get it repaired! It could lead to further damage and costly repairs down the line.
