It is helpful to ask the roofing contractor you are considering a series of questions to help ensure they are right for your roof replacement needs. This review discusses eight questions to ask a roofing contractor before making your final hiring decision.
What To Ask A Roof Replacement Contractor Before Hiring Them
The purpose of the initial consultation with a roofing contractor is to ensure they are properly licensed and insured, have the necessary experience, skills, and materials, are located near where you live, and are willing and able to communicate with you throughout the project.
By answering the eight questions below, you can make a more informed decision about who is the right roofing contractor before you begin your roof replacement.
1. Are You Properly Licensed And Insured?
You should first ensure any roofing contractors that you consider are properly licensed and insured. The licensing requirements may vary, but contractors are typically required to register with the state’s board of licensing contractors.
The contractor will also need general liability insurance, worker’s compensation, and auto insurance for any work vehicles they use during the roof replacement. You should avoid working with a roofing contractor that is not licensed or insured to avoid being financially liable for any issues that arise.
2. How Much Experience Do You Have With Roof Replacement?
Experience is essential when it comes to roof replacement. An experienced roofing contractor is more likely to know how to avoid setbacks in the process and how to promptly address any unexpected issues that arise throughout the project to ensure it does not delay the process for an extended amount of time. Be sure to ask each contractor about their experience with roof replacement, especially projects that are similar to yours.
3. Where Are You Located?
It can help to choose a local roof replacement contractor to ensure they are able to make it to your home conveniently. This is also important after an event (i.e. storm) damages your home; scammers are known to go from town to town after a storm occurs to take advantage of homeowners whose home is damaged. To verify they are local, ask each contractor you consider for their physical number and verify that their phone number is local.
4. What Warranty Coverage Do You Provide?
Roof warranties protect you financially in the event something happens to your roof earlier than anticipated. You should have a warranty from the manufacturer for the materials used.
You should also have a second warranty from the contractor for their workmanship. The length of contractor warranties vary, ranging from a year to a lifetime warranty. Be sure to ask about the warranty coverage before making your final hiring decision.
5. How Can I Contact You Throughout The Project?
You should have a clear understanding of who your point of contact is throughout the roof replacement project, whether that is the owner of the company or the manager. If it is difficult to get in touch with the contracting company, then you are more likely to experience prolonged processes and increased frustration. On the other hand, a roofing contractor that communicates well can make the process much easier and more convenient for you.
6. Do You Have References Or Examples Of Your Previous Work?
References and examples of previous work is a great way to learn about the quality of craftsmanship you are likely to receive. Online reviews are a great place to start to determine whether or not a contractor is qualified for your roof replacement, but you should also ask the contractor directly for examples of roofing work they have completed that are similar to the needs you have. Be sure to ask for specific details, such as how long the project took, the roofing material used, etc.
7. What Precautions Do You Take To Protect My Property?
Roofing contractors should have a plan in place to protect your property. Roof replacement can be a dangerous and destructive job if not carried out professionally and with care. In addition, the roofing contractor should have a plan to clean up after themselves as well. This should include properly recycling or disposing of the existing roofing materials that are removed.
8. How Long Will It Take You To Complete The Project?
The weather and other uncontrollable factors can affect the timeline, and providing an exact finish date is not typically possible for roofing contractors. However, getting a tentative start and end date can help you plan and can provide the contractor with a deadline to help them remain diligent in their work.
Discuss The Specifics Of Your Roof Replacement Needs During A Phone Call
Our roofing contractors at Adelphia Exteriors understand the importance of quality communication, fast service, and exceptional results. If you have any questions or are ready to begin your roof replacement, then contact our roof replacement experts today to get started.