Before you hire a roofing company to install your roof, there are several steps that you should take. Here are 10 things to consider before signing any contracts so that you can be sure the installation will go smoothly.
1. Get Several Roofing Bids
The first step in hiring a roofing company is to get at least three bids. It’s wise to check the Better Business Bureau before you start getting estimates, and find out if there are any unresolved complaints against the contractors you are considering. Also make sure they carry the right type of insurance for your particular project.
2. Involve Your Family
Before hiring a roofer, talk with your spouse or significant other about what you think would be the best type of new roof for your home. Ask family members for their input as well, especially if they live nearby and will be able to see your new roof from time to time. If you have pets or children, discuss how they will affect the decision-making process.
3. Check References
If a contractor says that he has done business with a number of people in your neighborhood, ask to speak to one of them and find out whether or not they were satisfied with the work that was done on their home. If possible, get estimates from several previous clients so you can see how competitively priced the company’s services are.
4. What Are The Company’s Credentials?
Before choosing a roofing contractor, find out if they are certified by any professional organizations. If so, verify that they still maintain their membership and ask to see copies of the certification. Also be sure that your potential roofers have liability insurance that covers all types of accidents or damage that might occur while work is being done on your home. Ask them for proof of this coverage before you sign any contracts.
5. Get Everything In Writing
When you finally make your decision about who will install your new roof, make sure everything is put in writing with an estimate and contract agreement before any money changes hands. This way, there can be no misunderstandings between you and the contractor later on about pricing or quality of Roof installation work.
6. Make A Timeline
Once you have chosen a roofing contractor, discuss with them how long the installation process will take. If they say that it will only take several days to complete the job, ask for specific start and stop dates so you can be sure not to plan any vacations during those times. Also find out if there will be any additional fees for overtime services that may be required. #7. Thorough cleanup
Don’t just assume that your new roofer is going to clean up after himself and leave your premises in pristine condition when he’s done working on your home. Ask him what his policy is regarding trash and debris, and be present at the end of each day to check his cleanup. If the mess is too much to handle on your own, find out if he can hire a cleaning crew so everything will be tidied up before you return from work or your errands.
8. Don’t Rush Into A Decision
The roofing installation process requires a lot of time and effort on your part as well as that of the contractor, especially if you have to pay for materials that need to be ordered in advance. Because of this, never rush into signing any contracts until you are fully aware of what is included and what expenses may crop up along the way.
9. Take Pictures Of Completed Job
Before you pay for work, ask for photos from each step of the project during its progress so you can be sure that the roofing contractor completed the job to your satisfaction before he leaves your home. If there are any areas of concern after he has finished, have him fix them before letting him have his money.
10. Check Around Again
Before you pay for a new roof installation, get at least one more estimate from another company to compare prices and services offered just to be sure that you are getting the best value for your dollar. Once the installation is complete, make sure all parts of the contract were followed through on in full before leaving any final feedback online or elsewhere about your experience with this company.
