The dizzying impact of this year’s November storms on the Atlantic hurricane season is a stark reminder that catastrophic weather can happen when you least expect it. Every community in Central Florida has been affected, and there’s no telling what 2023 will bring.

This time of year is the busiest for a Central Florida roofing contractor, and it can be the most fraught for a homeowner. Roofing scammers come out of the woodwork to prey on people who just want to ensure their homes will be safe, their insurance will stay valid, and they won’t lose property value.

It’s always important to ask the right questions of any roofing contractor.

But it’s never more important than right now.

Storm damage can put you at risk of water damage, mold, and other complications that may make your roof unsafe. The faster you get the damage repaired, the better. Emergency roof replacement might be the only option if your roof has been compromised at the underlayment or structural level.

Scammers often go door to door soliciting work and offering to do roof repair when reputable roofing contractors are already at their limit. By asking for payment in cash, they ensure they can disappear. You’ll never get the work done, and you’ll never see the money again.

Plus, you’ll still have to deal with a damaged roof.

At Sheegog Contracting, we believe in helping you make an informed decision. Even if you don’t end up choosing us, you should still have the opportunity to pick a roofing contractor worth what you’ll invest.

To make the best decision, be sure to ask these seven questions:

1. “Can I see your Florida roofing license and current insurance?”

You can look up Florida roofing licenses online, but it’s always best to come out and ask the question. If a roofing contractor isn’t clear and forthright about their licensure and insurance, they might be hiding something – and whatever it is, it’s not worth the risk to you as a homeowner.

What about roofing insurance? You can’t check this out online, but a roofer should be able to email you the relevant documents. Roofing insurance helps protect you from liability because it means if accidents take place on the job, the workers on site are adequately covered for injuries.

2. “Do you recommend roof repair or roof replacement?”

While roof replacement is one of the best long-term investments you can make in your home, roofs can often be restored to working order with roof repair. If damage is localized to the topmost roof layer, you may simply need to replace the affected shingles, tiles, or metal panels.

Be wary of a roofing contractor you just met who sounds gung-ho on a roof replacement. If you go for a replacement, be sure you have ample time to consider your different options. A standard shingle roof is the most budget-friendly option, but metal, tile, and flat roofs all have impressive performance qualities.

3. “What’s your roofing project process like?”

At Sheegog Contracting, our famous five-step plan means you always know exactly what’s coming next. Good project management is one way we help you save time and money. We will work with you to get your project done on your schedule with a minimum of disruption to your family.

A formal, written project plan shows your roofing contractor is a true professional. But even if they don’t put it all in writing, they should be able to describe the process in detail … not make it up as they go. The clarity of their plan helps avoid cost overruns, delays, and staffing shortages.

4. “Do you offer a guarantee?”

A warranty is offered by the roofing manufacturer that supplies the shingles and other products, helping protect you against manufacturing defects as long as the roof was installed in a professional manner. On the other hand, a guarantee is extended by the roofing contractor and is a promise to make things right.

Your warranty is usually only valid if your installation is performed by a properly licensed, insured, and trained roofer – hence question #1. But roofers who don’t offer a guarantee on top of that may not be serious about standing by their work. A written “100% satisfaction guarantee” is the gold standard.

5. “How long have you been in business?”

Experience makes a tremendous difference when it comes to Central Florida roofing.

Experience helps roofers get the job done – and get it done right – the first time. Industry newcomers often know their way around the tools of the trade, but they don’t know how to plan and execute the full roofing project from start to finish. That includes the potential to drop the ball on customer care.

New roofers may underestimate the work involved in a job. They also don’t necessarily have the big brand connections necessary to buy top-quality roofing materials at favorable rates. Since they don’t make big purchases or have much credit, they have to pass costs on to you.

Always look for a minimum of five years in business in the local area. And if you’re concerned about excellent customer service, consider focusing on roofing teams who live and work in the neighborhood. Large national roofing chains don’t need to worry about repeat business, so they can be less conscientious.

6. “Do you help with roofing financing?”

The worst thing is to know you need urgent roof repair in Central Florida but not be able to get it done because of cost. Cost can be affected by all kinds of factors, including the global supply chain issues we all faced in 2021 and early 2022. But a damaged roof often can’t wait and will only get worse.

To prevent our Central Florida friends and neighbors from facing the worst-case scenario, we offer homeowners like you new roof financing. It’s a quick and easy process that can get you on the road toward a strong, beautiful new roof in a matter of days – not months or years.

7. “Can I see the contract?”

An idea turns into a project plan, and a project plan turns into a written contract. Unless you can get it all spelled out – exactly what will be done, where, when, how, and for how much – you should not go forward with that roofing contractor.

There’s a flip side: Once a contract has been drafted, your roofer has a limited time to lock in the materials at the prices quoted. Still, you should never feel rushed to make a decision.

For a Roofing Contractor You Can Trust with Storm Damage, Contact Sheegog Contracting

With years of experience and a professional, highly trained staff, Sheegog Contracting is here to take the worry out of choosing a roofing contractor. Our proven project management process makes roof repair and replacement easier than it’s ever been in Central Florida.

Contact us today to find out more or get started. We look forward to helping you soon.