How to Choose the Right Roofing Pro

Your roof isn’t just your home’s first line of defense against the elements; it’s also a major investment. So, it’s important to hire qualified experts to work on your roofing repair and installation projects. Here are five simple tips to help you find and hire a pro who’ll get the job done right:

1. Talk to Several Roofing Contractors

Be sure to speak with several roofing companies before you hire. This will give you an idea of fair pricing and give you the best chance of getting the roof you need at an affordable rate. You’ll also want to ask each contractor whether they use subcontractors for jobs and how they plan to prep and clean up the worksite.

2. Verify Credentials

Checking out your roofing contractor’s work history is the most important thing you can do as a homeowner to ensure a quality job. Always ask for proof of licensing and insurance and request at least three references while interviewing pros. Take note if they delay in providing you the information you’ve asked for – it could be a bad sign.

3. Review the Contract and Warranties

It’s important to understand the terms of your agreement with a roofing contractor. So, be sure to thoroughly read any contract carefully before you sign. Also, check to make sure you understand the warranty (if any) that comes with your new roof. Some roofing contractors offer a guarantee on their work. A five-year guarantee on materials and workmanship and a 20 to 40-year warranty on the roof itself are standard offerings.

4. Cover Your Bases

Be sure to cover your bases before work begins. Ask your contractor whether you or the roofing company will be responsible for acquiring a permit for the project. Most roofing companies will pull permits for you, but it is a good idea to double-check! And if you’re submitting an insurance claim on your roof, be certain that you’ve followed all the necessary procedures.

5. Never Pay the Entire Balance Up Front

It’s normal for a contractor to ask for a deposit or establish a payment schedule that coincides with completed work. But you should never pay the entire balance of your new roof up front. You’ll also want to avoid paying with cash. Using a credit card makes recovering money an easier process in the event that something does go wrong.

Finding and Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Finding the right roofing pro can seem a bit overwhelming. But by following these tips and using HomeAdvisor to find a pre-screened pro, you can take comfort in knowing that you’ve found the right contractor for the job.