When it comes to the roof over your head how much do you really know about maintenance and repair? We’re guessing not much.
The reality is that the more you know about roofing repair and what it entails, the better informed you are to make wise decisions.
Choosing the right roofing company for your needs can be a difficult task if you just don’t know what to look for. What kind of certifications are necessary, training, experience and services? In this blog, we outline the most important factors to look when hiring a roofing contractor, whether it’s for roofing repair or replacement.
10 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roofing Company
In many regions across the U.S. roofing is an unregulated industry. This means that finding a certified and reliable roofing contractor can be frustrating.
Even if a roofing contractor is certified, their workmanship and installation could be of poor quality. And don’t forget you’ll also need to secure a contractor who can honor their warranty in years to come! In order to choose the best roofing company for your home, here are a few important factors to check off your list:
1. Look for Relevant Contact Information
First thing’s first, is the roofing company you’re considering easy to find on the internet? Does their name come up relatively quickly with a Google search? If not, this could be cause for concern as they may not have a website, or it could be severely out-dated and the business unpopular.
You want to work with a roofing contractor who keeps up with the times. If their website is that outdated, are their business practices that outdated too? Make sure the contractor has a permanent place of business, a valid and listed business address, and a tax identification number.
2. Ask for Proof of Insurance
There’s no need to shy away from asking a roofing contractor for their proof of insurance. This includes a copy of their liability coverage and worker’s compensation certificates.
Double check that the insurance coverage is completely valid for the duration of your roofing project. You don’t want to be dragged into a lawsuit with an uninsured contractor because, yes, roofing accidents do happen! If a contractor is uninsured, you could very well be held liable for any kind of accident that occurs on your property.
3. Check for Business Licensing or Bonding
Some states, including Kansas & Missouri, have very specific roofing contractor licensing requirements, so it’s up to you to ensure they are adequately licensed.
Keep in mind that most legitimate, well-experienced contractors will happily present their business license without having to be asked. When in doubt, your state’s Department of Professional Regulation and Licensing Board will have this information on hand!
4. Make Sure They are Financially Stable
Will your contractor be able to foot the bill for adequate materials needed for your roofing project, before you’ve paid in full?
The bottom line is that a successful roofing company should be able to afford this, without needing your financial help. A full, up-front payment for your project is not the industry norm in Kansas City. Generally, a deposit or down-payment will be requested, but anything more than this should be treated as suspicious.
5. Look for a Proven Track Record
A roofing company should be happy and willing to offer up their client references and a list of previous projects they’ve worked on. At The Roofing Man we are happy to point out our 5-star reviews on Google and GAF.
If you have your doubts, ask for relevant contact information and call previous clients to discuss their project and levels of satisfaction.
6. Ask for a Detailed Project Proposal
No, this is not asking too much! Sit down with your roofing contractor and ask them to walk you through the project proposal and examine all specifications. Our owner, Chris Hosch is always happy to take as much time with you as you need to fully understand your project proposal.
Remember to ask about approximate dates for starting and completing the project. What will their plan-of-action be if they run off schedule? Clear up any questions or concerns you have about payment procedures.
7. Look for a List of Approvals
Many roofing systems require specialized application and expertise to achieve long-lasting, reliable roofing quality.
Make sure you roofing contractor has all the pre-approved training needed for these specific applications. You should also look for a list of roofing manufacturers who have approved the business as a licensed applicator, such as GAF or CertainTeed.
8. Inquire About Quality Control Procedures
Do a little homework on who will be in charge during your project and how they supervise the work conducted on your home.
Don’t shy away from asking about quality control protocol and how consistency is achieved throughout each project. Make sure to request the name of the person in charge as well as their contact number, if possible. If you ever need to contact us, please call or text Chris at (913) 381-2940.
9. Check up on Their Worker Safety Standards
It’s important to go with a company who is committed to putting both their clients and employees first. Worker safety and education should be a business priority for any well-to-do contractor.
Ask your roofing contractor what kind of safety training is provided for their workers as well as the safety protocol used onsite.
After all, the best roofing contractor is only as good its workers!
10. Beware of the Lowest Price Bid
Finally, it’s in your own best interest to maintain a healthy skepticism when it comes to contractors who offer the lowest bid on a project.
The general rule-of-thumb? If it seems too good to be true, it generally is! There is a reason why contractors offer a low price, and that is generally due to sub-standard work and the quality of materials.
Remember that price should not be your only deciding factor when choosing a roofing company. Consider professionalism, quality of work and experience too!
The Roofing Man Has Your Next Project Covered
Need a top-rated roofing company for your next inspection, maintenance project or repair? The Roofing Man, based in Gardner, KS, is your answer.
Operating in and around the Kansas Metropolitan area, we are a locally owned and operated roofing business with years of reputable experience.
Reach out today for your next residential roofing project, we’ve got you covered no matter the weather!