Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Arguably the easiest way to evaluate the quality of a roofing contractor’s work is to look at his past jobs. When you are choosing a roofing contractor, many will gladly provide you with a list of references if they believe that their work speaks for itself. You should look for references that are a few years old, so that you can assess how durable the construction is. It can also be important to find a contractor that is the right fit for you. Choosing someone that you aren’t comfortable with can lead to problems. Conversely, be selective and choose someone with excellent references, a proven track record and expertise. If you hear significant or consistent negative things about a contractor from references don’t ignore them. While every one seems nice at first, go with the facts you hear and see they seem legitimate.
While you should be cautious of roofing contractors who do not provide references, some roofing contractors may just be starting out. If references are not provided, you can check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the contractor. You should also make sure that the contractor is insured (worker’s compensation policy as well as liability coverage), as you may otherwise be liable for any injuries that workers incur at your home.
You may also want to discuss a good workmanship warranty with the contractor as a safeguard against any faults with the construction. When you begin to discuss your job, be sure that you receive a written estimate, including a listing of the materials that will be used and the manufacturers’ warranties. The estimate should include not only the cost of materials, but also the costs associated with preparing the roof (either to remove the old roof or prepare for laying over the existing roof), as well as the costs of permits and clean up.
Finally, if your job requires a real specialist find some one that has done a similar type of job.
Hiring a Roofing Contractor Quick Tips
• Check References
• Hire someone you are comfortable with
• Find some one that has done a similar type of job
• Check with the Better Business Bureau
• Make sure there are no hidden materials or prep costs
Watch this video about roofing contractor association
Canopy Construction is a full service roofing company, specializing in weather-damaged roof replacement. We recognize that selecting a reliable roofing contractor can be confusing. At Canopy Construction we pride ourselves on quality the quality of our materials, the quality of our installation, and the quality of our people. To back it up, we maintain an A-rating with the Better Business Bureau and certification with the National Roofing Contractors Association. Our team of professional … Please help to answer the question about roofing contractor association
About Author
John Dudley Jr. is the owner of United Home Experts. United has a reputation throughout the roofing industry for providing both value and quality in their roofing installation. They are based in Massachusetts, but also serve Rhode Island and New Hampshire. For more information about their roofing services, as well as other home construction services that they provide, visit http://www.unitedpainting.net
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April 26th, 2010 | by roofing contractor |
By cbmtrx on Apr 26, 2010
i would not hire this contractor, could end up costing you more money in the long run
By Renoir04 on Apr 26, 2010
I would recommend to do the following:
1) Make sure they are a licensed contractor, who will be getting the building permit for you.
2) Ask the contractor if he will be overseeing the work.
You don't want one of those guys that you only see once, hire a bunch of unkilled labor to do all theactual work, and are never around to make sure the work is being done right.
3) Get a few more estimates for cost to do the whole job. I prefer getting at least 3. If they refuse to provide a free estimate for the whole job, then don't even consider them.
4) Whatever you do, do not give the contractor a huge check up front. There are a ton of horror stories out there, where people have gotten ripped off that way. I suggest a stepwise payment based on the progress of work done. The chunk of which isn't paid until the job is passed by the housing inspector.
By Thomas C on Apr 28, 2010
i am in the insurance business. in claims most companies have a preferred vendor they use in claims settlement. as a consumer, you have the right to choose whom you want to fix your roof. you just need to let them know that you wish to do that. it is not illegal for them to try and use their preferred contractor or company. whenever a client calls me with a claim i ALWAYS tell them to get 2 or 3 estimates from different contractors to see what kind of estimate they give you. this is to make sure that the insurance co. does not low ball you. do not let any of the contractors know the amount the others bid. roof claims are always tricky. you may want to check out the better business bureau of your town and see who they recommend if you do not already know of someone that you trust.
By darlene b on Apr 29, 2010
The first half is deposit and the remaining balance is paid upon completion of work. If they do not complete work, they will not get paid. They should of known better not to fall in. You should sue them for what they did to you guys.
http://www.surehandsusa.com.
By Mike A on Apr 29, 2010
well you first meed a permit from your city. they also want all info on your contractor… so how that contractor was even hired is beyond me. unless you skipped the permit part :-/
which could land you, the property owner in a world of s@@t.
By HookedTrout on Apr 30, 2010
First, to protect yourself from liability (not libel–that's different), hire a licensed contractor who is insured. Ask for proof of both–he will be able to produce his current contractor's license and proof of up to date insurance and worker's comp.
Second, take the time to read his contract. If you can't understand it, spend a few dollars to have an attorney review it.
Third, ask for references and call them. It's important to understand that building and remodeling projects NEVER go as planned, so don't be surprised if all the references were disappointed in something. But, you should focus questions on his overall character, not on the project itself.
Finally, when you select a contractor, ask him some of these questions:
How long do you think this project will take?
What things could make it take longer?
If it lasts longer, will that cost me more?
Is there anything I can do to make it faster?
What are some surprises you've had in the past on similar projects?
How did you solve those?
A good contractor will appreciate these questions, and will take the time to talk to you about them. With this, you will have an understanding of what he's about to do, which will establish a good relationship with him. That's just about the best protection you can get!