Sifting Through Various Roofing Companies

By Nelda Powers


One's home is perhaps one of the most costly investments they will make during their lifetime. When damage occurs, it is important to find a contractor who is capable of repairing the problem with a level of quality that can be relied upon. There are a few tips every homeowner should know about comparing residential roofing companies in order to get the best results.

Perhaps the first thing to stress is to only hire a company that is properly qualified. A legitimate contractor will provide the necessary documentation to prove their legitimacy, including any credentials required by the state, a valid business license and current proof of liability insurance and workers compensation plans. Their warranties should cover both the products they utilize as well as the work they perform.

Each state may have different requirements for this type of contractor's license. If a homeowner is unsure of what the guidelines in their area are, they can find out by contacting their local licensing board or Department of Professional Regulation. Legitimacy may be further verified by requesting their tax ID number, business address, website, email and telephone number.

Relatives, co-workers, neighbors and friends are all reliable sources for contractor recommendations. Another suggestion is to speak with insurance agents and claims adjusters about which businesses they would either use or advise against. One should not hesitate to contact former clients of each company considered and get their personal experience opinions.

Aside from contacting prior clients and various individuals in the insurance field to find out how each company performed, there are other ways to check a contractor's reputation. The Better Business Bureau will have a record of complaints filed, though they are unlikely to have any positive reviews on hand. Online websites that allow homeowners to post pros and cons of different vendors are a great resource.

Comparisons should always be made prior to committing to any contract. Prior to permitting a company to look at the issue, verify whether or not there is a charge for the estimate, though most will offer this service at no charge. Request that everything be put in writing, including any promises made by the inspector, the materials to be used, the time work is expected to last and all possible costs.

Homeowners should insist on a clear and concise contract which states the expected duration of the project and the times at which the workers will begin and end each day. It should spell out exactly what materials will be used, what their safety procedures and clean up methods are, , as well as a payment schedule. Never pay more than 1/3 of the total up front, only use checks or credit card and hold the final payment until a thorough inspection is completed.

Comparing roofing companies is a balance of quality, reputation and reliability because the lowest bid is not necessary always the best option. Researching all of these aspects is how one finds the best contractor for the job. Demand a warranty and read it carefully in order to ensure it covers all of the work done as well as the materials that were used.




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