It’s always a challenge to find trustworthy contractors when your home needs repair. And that’s especially true when you’re looking for professional roofers. Your roof may be an essential system in your entire home. Shoddy repairs can lead to extensive structural damage and decrease the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.
Comparing estimates is an important step when choosing a contractor, but the price isn’t the most valuable piece of information you need to make a good decision. Experienced roofing specialists take pride in their work. They are happy to discuss previous jobs and to provide references. A contractor who doesn’t want to share this type of information is probably not the best choice, no matter how competitive the quote is.
7 Questions to ask Roofing Contractors Before Hiring
In addition to getting references, the following questions will help you find a roofing professional you’ll enjoy working with.
Does the Company Insure All Contractors?
Each technician should have workers’ compensation insurance and comprehensive liability insurance in the event of an accident. Uninsured roofers may be cheaper to hire, but they may try to sue you to pay for medical bills if they get injured on the job. A reputable roofer will have no problem verifying their certificates of insurance for you.
Does the Company have Manufacturer Designations?
A manufacturer’s designation is like a stamp of approval showing a contractor is factory certified to install or repair that manufacturer’s product. It’s an assurance to the customer that a roofer has passed at least minimum requirements before working with that product on your home.
How Long Has the Company Been in Business?
Everyone has to start somewhere. Being a new contractor or working for a newly launched Durham roofing company doesn’t mean a roofer is incapable or untrustworthy. But there is a risk involved with working with a roofer that’s only been in business for a short time. The failure rate of a small business is highest during its first three years. Will a new contractor still be around if there’s a problem with their work down the line? Working with an experienced professional roofer with ties to the community and a history of satisfied customers is the safest choice.
Are You Happy with Material Choices?
Avoid working with a roofing company that doesn’t offer a variety of shingle options. Each customer should select the color, style, and quality of materials that best suits their needs and budget. Roofing can make or break the overall look of your home and affect its value for resale. Having a new roof installed is an opportunity to upgrade or change the style to fit your vision of the home.
Do You Feel Pressured?
Any contractor who makes you feel pressured does not have your best interests in mind, especially in the case of an insurance claim. Never agree to sign a contract before your insurance company has provided a damage estimate. Professional contractors are not insurance claim specialists and cannot negotiate a claim for you. Being pressured about material choices, time frames, or contract details is a red flag.
What Do References Say?
In addition to following up with referencing provided by the roofer, check other sources too. Reviews on Yelp, Angi’s List, and neighborhood discussion boards can reveal a lot. Also, take the time to look up a company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings. A contractor not even listed on BBB could be operating a fly-by-night business.
Is the Work Guaranteed?
What kind of warranty a company is willing to provide says a lot about its pride in its work. Roofing contractors who are committed to doing quality work don’t skip steps. They provide free estimates, begin each job with a thorough inspection, offer warranties, and come back after installation to ensure everything is alright.
The last tip for choosing a reputable roofing professional is to trust your instinct. If a roofer is exhibiting unsafe behaviors during a consultation, making promises that are too good to be true, or saying things that leave you feeling confused, don’t hire them. A new roof is an investment. Use our tips and your good sense to select a contractor who will treat you and your home with the respect you deserve.
Quality Roofers Near Me in Greensboro, NC
Carolina Home Specialists are always happy to answer your questions. We are here to help you determine which roofing materials are best for your home. Our professional roofers are dedicated to making the experience of roof installation as stress-free as possible for our customers. Contact us today for a free consultation.