Replacing your roof is a big undertaking.
Before you hire a roofing contractor, you need to familiarize yourself with the process.
A new roof will preserve your home’s value, give you peace of mind, and protect you against the elements. When it’s time to replace your roof, make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
Here are six questions to ask your roofing contractor before hiring them.
1. Are They a Licensed Contractor?
Roofing contractors in Michigan are required to be licensed by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs department.
Don’t feel embarrassed asking for a copy of their license. A license is an indication of care, professionalism, experience, and training.
A contractor without a license is one to avoid.
2. What Insurance Do They Carry?
“Stuff happens,” and insurance is there to protect you from accidents and other unpredictable occurrences. At a minimum you want your contractor to have general liability insurance and workers’ compensation.
You should require your contractor to have insurance and that they provide you with an up-to-date certificate of insurance. Make sure you’re protected!
3. What’s Their Installation Process?
If your roofing contractor is typical, they’ll have more than one project going on any given day.
Don’t let your work become an afterthought to their other projects. The process must provide for quality control and a sense of accountability.
A reputable roofing contractor will have a manufacturer-certified crew foreman onsite the entire time and a project supervisor who will also periodically visit to oversee the process. Don’t accept “experienced workers” as a reason for the lack of onsite supervision. The project supervisor also is responsible for reviewing and approving the completed roof when the crew has completed it.
Ethical roofing companies make sure a reliable and knowledgeable individual is on the job to make sure the roofing process is as painless and stress-free as possible for the homeowner.
4. What’s Their Workmanship Warranty?
While the manufacturer of roofing materials typically offers a warranty on their products, the roofing contractor will typically offer its own warranty on workmanship. You might purchase a shingle that’s warrantied for 20 years, but the contractor’s workmanship warranty is only one year.
Plus, the manufacturer’s warranty is only valid if the materials were installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. If you’re working with a new or inexperienced roofing contractor, will they install according to manufacturer’s specifications and will they be around when you have problems?
Make sure you’re protecting your investment in your new roof by asking about both the manufacturer’s warranty and the workmanship warranty provided by the roofing company. Above Roofing, for example, provides a lifetime workmanship warranty on all work performed by us.
5. Can I See Some Reviews?
Like checking on a restaurant you’ve never been to, reviews are important even with roofing.
A good roofing contractor should have online reviews with Google and the Better Business Bureau. A reputable contractor is focused on doing good work, making happy customers, and reviews are an easy way to see previous customer experiences.
Take the time to research and sort through reviews before reaching out to a roofing contractor. Once you’ve narrowed down the field, then reach out for a free roof inspection.
6. How Long Have They Been in Business?
The more experienced a roofing contractor is, the better. Like any other business, professionals that have been in the industry for decades have the most experience.
It’s best to get some background on the business as a whole. There are plenty of situations where contractors open, do a few jobs, and then close after a short period of time.
Don’t hire a new or inexperienced contractor for your project. Trust an established, local company to ensure upfront quality and back-end support.
Choose a Roofing Contractor
Don’t be afraid to ask these important questions before you agree to a contract. Once you have the answers to these questions, it’s time to choose a roofing contractor.
Remember, no one should pressure you into signing anything.
A high-quality roof is a big investment for any home. Make sure you’re getting the right level of service. Before you hire a company, do your research.
Above Roofing
You deserve all the benefits of a high-quality roof without any hassle.
Family-owned since 1996, our founder Robert Freeman started Above Roofing to create an honest business model. We understand a roof is a significant investment, and you deserve to have it done right from the start.
Don’t compromise with a contractor. When you choose Above Roofing, you’re choosing a company that values communication, integrity, and expertise.
If you’re in the market for a new roof, schedule your no-pressure, Free Roof Inspection today.
