You wouldn’t be satisfied with a roofer who cuts corners on the job, so why cut corners when looking for a roofing contractor? Paying attention to the details of a roofing company’s certifications, reputation and method of operation could save you thousands of dollars and will provide peace of mind the next time you need a new roof or any repairs. These are the 10 things you should ask your potential roofing contractor.
1. Are the employees properly licensed?
Legitimate roofing contractors will hold an occupational license in the county or city where they work and be licensed as roofing contractors by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. A good standing with FDBPR and proper licensure is indicative of a consistent, acceptable level of quality.
2. Does the company carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance?
Florida has very few businesses that are. Not required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers medical expenses and lost wages of workers injured on the job. The law may require roofing companies to carry this coverage. If they do not, homeowners could be held financially responsible for any injuries on their property. Hiring a properly licensed contractor will save you time, money, and hassle.
3. Do you have more than three references or testimonials that you can verify?
You need to trust roof installation and repair because it requires a significant amount of money and time. You can find reviews online from customers. Ask your friends and neighbors to recommend a roofing company. They will ask questions about the behavior of employees, punctuality, worker behavior, whether they show up on time or disappear, and how the job was left.
4. Are their employees uniform-wearing?
This may seem silly on the surface. Home invasions are more common than ever. Knowing that the stranger who enters your home will be uniformed, easily identifiable, gives you peace of mind as a homeowner.
5. Is there a physical address for the company?
Self-proclaimed roofers often work from their truck. There is no central office, so it’s easy to vanish. There would be no place to go or office to contact if you had any problems during the job.
6. Is the company offering a guarantee? Are they likely to be in business after the guarantee expires.
When working with any legitimate roofing contractor, you should receive a lifetime warranty on workmanship and a manufacturer’s warranty on the roofing product. The 25- or 50-year manufacturer’s warranty you receive will only cover manufacturing defects, and the roof must be installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Your warranty is null if the roofer does not follow manufacturer’s guidelines.
A relatively young company may offer a 20-year guarantee. However, most new businesses fail within 10 years. When possible, it’s best to hire a seasoned, time-tested company to do the job.
7. Are safety courses offered to employees?
There are unique risks associated with the roofing industry. Your risk of liability will be significantly reduced if you hire a roofing contractor.
8. What point in the process does the company request payment?
It is a red flag if a handyman, roofing contractor, or other professional asks for large amounts of money up front. A well-established business will be able pay the materials cost until the job is done or, in the case of larger projects, until it is delivered to you. A draw schedule is used for larger jobs. You pay a percentage of the total cost if certain milestones have been reached.
9. Is the company going to do all the work? Or will they subcontract the work out?
If the company that you hire is unable to provide all the required staff, you should find out who will be working on your property. You must obtain the insurance information for each subcontractor. Make sure subcontractors are paid. If subcontractors are not paid by the company you’ve hired, you may be liable and the subcontractors may be able to place a mechanic’s lien on your property. Working with a reputable company who can staff the project can help you avoid all the problems.
10. Is the company able to provide a written proposal that includes the cost of the work?
Unfortunately, many roofers are not trustworthy and will offer reasonable estimates at first but then raise the price once the work begins. Once your home is exposed to the elements, a partially finished roof can cause damage to your home.
When trust counts, make sure you’re counting on the right people. Only deal with a company that insists on safety and quality. This will ensure that there are no voidable warranties, unexpected expenses, or injuries, and that your roof is installed safely. For an estimate or questions about your roof, please email us
