1. Keep The Search Strictly Local
First of all, you want a local roofing contractor for several reasons. They will have knowledge of how local building codes work, of how climate affects roofs in your region over the years, and of the common types of structures and building practices on typical homes in the area.
Also, it will make it easier to keep in good contact with your contractor and for him to arrive on the job early every day. And finally, a local reputation is worth its weight in gold!
2. Do Your Own Research
Next, use every tool at your disposal to do your own research, and never go with a contractor who suddenly shows up on your doorstep or calls you unsolicited after a storm.
Find out the contractor’s rating with the Better Business Bureau and with other industry standard setters. Investigate review sites of local contractors and read online reviews of past customers. Make sure the candidate is fully licensed and insured and has many years of experience.
3. Handle Your Own Insurance Matters
It’s fine to have a contractor call your home insurance company, if you wish, just so they can talk to them and make sure they are on the same page. Other than that, however, you need to talk to your insurer yourself. You need to make sure which contractors they will accept, how much you are covered for, and how much (if any) you’ll need to pay in cash.
Don’t choose a contractor who insists on handling your claim for you, and be wary of those who say they can work for “whatever” the insurer will pay out. And don’t believe it if a prospect says they can ensure you don’t have to pay your deductible – that could be a sign of insurance fraud.
4. Insist On Having Options
A good roofer should offer you a number of options when you have a roofing need. This should include a variety of roofing materials to choose from, reasonably flexible scheduling of the project, and more than one option for making the payment.
Never give in to pressure. Your contractor should be helpful, ready to answer all your roofing questions and assist you in every way possible – but never “pushy,” never willing to use any high-pressure tactics to get the job.
5. Ask About The Warranties
How long your manufacturer’s warranty lasts will vary based on brand and material type. It could last 20 to 30 years or more, however, and is only valid if installed correctly – so make sure it is.
You should also have a warranty for workmanship. You shouldn’t have to pay for any repairs due to poor initial work – and those who do excellent work don’t mind offering a reasonable warranty.
To learn more, or for a free roofing quote, contact Sheegog Contracting today!
