Choosing a Roofing Contractor
It is extremely important to compare contractors before making a financial commitment toward any roofing project. A homeowner should solicit two to three bids from licensed roofing contractors. These bids should be based upon the same building specifications, materials, labor, and time needed to complete the project.
Discuss bids in detail with each contractor, making certain you understand the reasons for any variation in the prices. Do NOT automatically choose the lowest price. One contractor’s bid might be higher because the materials used are of better quality or because the work will be especially thorough and, therefore, require more time and labor. Some contractors will us sub-contractors who do not have the proper workers compensation insurance coverage, which can add up to huge liabilities for a homeowner if one of the workers were to get hurt on your property!
Ask the roofing contractor for local references and find out if these customers were satisfied with the contractor’s work.
Find a contractor who is a member of a professional association like FRSA (Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association http://www.floridaroof.com/) which has standards or a code of ethics for roofers.
Contact your local BBB to learn how long a contractor has been in business and if the firm has been responsive to any complaints filed. As a business roofing ranks #18 in complaints filed with BBB, with only a 59.7% settlement rate.
Most importantly, as stated before, ask the contractor if the company is insured against claims covering workers compensation, property damage, and personal liability in case of accidents. Then call to verify the contractor’s insurance coverage after obtaining the name of the carrier and agency.
Finally check to see if your contractor is licensed and can bond your job. Bonding will come with a small fee, but is worth the money if the contractor cannot finish the job for any reason.
Roofing is not an exact science. Expensive hidden problems can be uncovered once work has begun. Be sure to get a cost for any extra time and material written into the contract.
Finding a design conscience contractor can be difficult. Even the most successful roofers are often tempted to sell homeowners on a less expensive shingle for fear of losing the roofing bid.
Often in this scenario the homeowner loses, by getting a lesser shingle. Especially on high end homes, the difference between an average shingle and an upgraded product can mean thousands of dollars in lost resale value, not to mention the joys of owning the most beautiful roof on your block.
As with any large investment it is wise to do your homework first!