Whether you’re planning to install a new roof, replace an old one, or repair a roof leak, finding a trusted local roofing contractor is of utmost importance. Your roof is a large investment so don’t want to put it in the hands of any storm chaser who knocks on your front door. But how do you know you’ve chosen the right contractor who will do the job right the first time? Here are some key pointers to help you choose the best roofing contractor.
1. They Must Have the Required Local Licenses and Insurance
Roofing is generally a dangerous job, so it’s crucial to hire a roofer with the proper training, tools, and safety equipment. A reputable roofer should also hold the required licenses and insurance coverage to perform the roofing work. The critical insurance policies to look for are liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
2. They have Training For The Roof System You Want
Roofing manufacturers offer training on the correct way to install their products. Ask if your roofer has been trained by the manufacturer of your roofing material. This is a critical consideration since manufacturers may not honor material warranties if a non-authorized installer works on your roof.
3. They Don’t Use Sub-contractors
Ask if your roofer will assign your project to a subcontractor or if their own crew will. A good roofer should handle every project with their own trained team. Additionally, the company should carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect you from liability if someone gets injured on your property while installing your roof.
4. They are Local and Have a History in Your Area
Ideally, you should work with a contractor with a local office in your area. This gives you someone to turn to whenever you have issues with your roof. Besides, a local contractor with a rich history in your location will strive to provide quality service to maintain their reputation.
5. They Have Good Reviews and Can Provide References to Contact
See if the roofer has done other roofing projects in your area. Can they offer references for you to call and get a firsthand opinion on how their previous customers feel about their work? For most service businesses, reputation is everything. You can also check online for reviews from those who have hired them in the past.
6. They Should Have Good Communication Skills
A reputable roofer should communicate promptly and transparently. They should answer questions, communicate throughout the whole project, and let you know important updates.
7. The Thoroughly Inspect Your Roof Before Issuing an Estimate
When the roofing contractor first comes for the first inspection, they should go up on your roof and into the attic space to carry out a thorough inspection before issuing a quote. Such preliminary assessments can help detect hidden problems on time so they can be handled alongside your roof repair or replacement. This prevents further damage to your house and helps avoid surprise costs.
8. They Don’t Demand Payment Upfront
While roofing contractors shouldn’t ask for the full amount upfront, paying a small deposit is acceptable. But first, ensure you’ve agreed to the terms of the deposit and signed the agreement. Once this is done, they should commence the project immediately and only ask for the full payment after the job is completed to your satisfaction.
9. They Provide a Written Estimate
Every aspect of your roofing project should be documented. Be sure you understand the various financing terms used and ask questions if anything doesn’t make sense. A trustworthy roofing company will walk you through the contract and respond to your concerns.
10. Their Cost is Fair
Although certified roofing contractors may charge slightly higher than general contractors, their quality service and expertise are often worth the extra cost. Overall, reputable roofers offer competitive prices and will not over-charge you for your roofing work.
Here are four things you need a certified roofer for:
- A roofing contractor has the specialized training to identify what’s going on with your roof and how to fix it best. Although roofers in Denver and Fort Collins are only required to carry a state business license, working with a professionally licensed roofer guarantees you quality workmanship.
- A roofing contractor will discuss with you your roofing needs with options on how to restore any damage.
- A local roofer provides trained workers to handle your roof instead of subcontractors, ensuring better quality workmanship.
- A local roofer knows your local building codes and adheres to them for your roof.
At Red Diamond, we’ve been installing, repairing, and replacing roofs in the Denver and Fort Collins area for several years. We’ve built a foundation of trust with our clients throughout these communities and, chances are, we’ve completed a roof for someone in your neighborhood. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your upcoming roofing project!
