Ask the following roofing questions before deciding on a Roofing Contractor

Be sure your roofer can answer roofing questions about their location, insurance, and more.

Before hiring a roofing company, there are specific questions you should ask to ensure you are dealing with reputable roofing companies. A poor job can mean costly roof repairs and leaks in the future, which means more time and money spent. Ask a roofer the following questions before making a hiring decision:

1. What is your full company name and physical address?

Ask for the roofing company’s full name and address. If they use a Post Office box, ask for the physical location. A roofing company that doesn’t have a physical location is a cause for concern, and you should move on. Check Angie’s List to find a reliable repair or replacement company.

2. Do you have general liability insurance?

Roofing contractors should have workers’ compensation, general liability insurance coverage, and roofing contractors insurance to protect the homeowner in the event of an accident. Workers’ compensation protects the homeowner if a roofing company’s employee gets injured, and liability protects you from damage caused by the roofers during repair or replacement. Workers’ compensation insurance is crucial as it covers medical expenses for injuries sustained by employees on the job.

Without workers’ compensation insurance, the homeowner may be responsible for medical bills and other costs associated with the injury. Your homeowners’ insurance may not cover these types of accidents, so you will be personally responsible for the costs.

Some contractors use subcontractors for roofing jobs. Ensure you get lien waivers to protect yourself if your contractor doesn’t pay them.

3. Do you use roofing subcontractors?

Ask whether any part of the job will be performed by a subcontractor. If so, make sure you ask the roofing subcontractor these same questions—particularly whether they have roofers insurance.

4. Do you have a roofing contractor license?

Ask the roofing contractor if he or she is licensed by your city or state. Licensing requirements vary by state. Some cities and counties also require a contractor to be licensed. Verify whether a license is required in your area, and if it is, check with your local licensing offices to make sure your roofer’s license is up to date and doesn’t have any outstanding violations.

MORE: What Information Should Be in a Roofing Estimate?

A business license is not the same as a roofing contractor license. A business license is for tax purposes and identifies the company. It does not mean the person has passed a test or is qualified to work as a roofer.

5. Do you have homeowner references?

Ask for local residential job sites where the residential roofing contractor has completed work and check previous roofing work. You can also ask for references, but sometimes past customers do not want their personal information released or a contractor cherry picks a couple of happy customers. Follow up with the homeowners and ask whether they are happy with the roofing job completed by the contractor.

6. Do you offer a workmanship warranty for your roofing work?

Ask how long the roof repair company guarantees its work and what roofing warranties they offer, especially for a new roof. A roof warranty typically lasts for a year, but some roofers offer longer warranties. A workmanship warranty covers the quality of the installation and ensures that any errors made during the installation process will be corrected. The manufacturer usually covers the materials, and the roofer covers the work. Be sure to understand the specific terms of any lifetime coverage offered, as this can vary significantly among manufacturers. These are two separate warranties, so ask the roofer what is covered under each warranty and the length of each.

Additional Questions to Ask

7. What should I expect from a roofing estimate?

When hiring a roofing contractor, getting a detailed and accurate estimate for your project is essential. A professional roofer should provide a comprehensive estimate that includes a detailed description of the work to be done, the materials and labor costs, the timeline for completion, any necessary permits or inspections, the payment terms and schedule, and any warranties or guarantees offered.

A reputable roofing contractor will also be transparent about their pricing and will not surprise you with hidden fees or charges. Be wary of contractors who provide low-ball estimates, as they may be cutting corners or using low-quality materials. Ensuring you have a clear and detailed estimate helps you avoid unexpected costs and ensures the project stays on track.

8. How do you handle communication and customer service?

Effective communication and customer service are crucial when working with a roofing contractor. A professional roofer should respond promptly to your inquiries and concerns, keep you informed about the progress of your project, be transparent about any issues or delays, provide regular updates and progress reports, and be available to answer your questions and address your concerns.

A good roofing contractor will also have a clear and efficient communication process in place, including a dedicated project manager or customer service representative. This ensures that you are always in the loop and can have peace of mind knowing that your project is being handled professionally.

9. What materials do you recommend and why?

A professional roofer should be knowledgeable about the different types of roofing materials available and be able to recommend the best options for your project. They should consider factors such as your budget and financial constraints, the climate and weather conditions in your area, the style and architecture of your home, and your personal preferences and priorities.

A reputable roofing contractor will also be able to explain the benefits and drawbacks of different roofing materials and provide samples or examples of their work. This helps you make an informed decision about the best roofing material for your home, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.

10. What is your safety record, and what precautions do you take?

Safety should be a top priority for any roofing contractor. A professional roofer should have a good safety record and a low incident rate, provide regular employee safety training, use proper safety equipment and gear, follow all relevant safety regulations and guidelines, and have a clear emergency response plan in place.

A reputable roofing contractor will also be transparent about its safety record and willing to provide references or documentation to support its claims. Ensuring that your contractor prioritizes safety helps protect both the workers and your property.

11. What permits and inspections are required for my project?

A professional roofer should be familiar with the local building codes and regulations and able to obtain any necessary permits and inspections for your project. They should know what permits are required for your project, obtain them promptly, ensure that all work is done to code and meets local regulations, and provide documentation and proof of compliance.

A reputable roofing contractor will also be transparent about the permitting and inspection process and will keep you informed about any issues or delays. This will ensure that your project complies with local laws and avoids potential legal issues later.

12. What are the contract and payment terms?

A professional roofer should provide a comprehensive contract outlining the scope of work, payment terms, and any warranties or guarantees. The contract should include a detailed description of the work to be done, the payment terms and schedule, any warranties or guarantees offered, the timeline for completion, any necessary permits or inspections, and the process for resolving disputes or issues.

A reputable roofing contractor will also be transparent about payment terms and will not require full payment upfront. They should also be willing to negotiate and work with you to find a payment schedule that meets your needs and budget. This ensures both parties are clear on the terms and helps prevent misunderstandings.

13. What certifications and affiliations do you have?

When hiring a roofing contractor, it’s essential to check their certifications and affiliations. A reputable roofing contractor should have certifications from industry-recognized organizations, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) or the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). These certifications demonstrate that the contractor has met certain standards of quality and expertise.

Additionally, look for affiliations with local and national trade associations, such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). These affiliations indicate that the contractor is committed to upholding industry standards and best practices.

Some common certifications and affiliations to look for in a roofing contractor include:

• NRCA certification

• ARMA certification

• BBB accreditation

• NAHB membership

• GAF certification (for residential roofing contractors)

14. How long have you been in business?

A roofing contractor’s experience and longevity in the industry can be a significant factor in determining their reliability and quality of work. A contractor with many years of experience has likely encountered a wide range of roofing challenges and has developed the skills and expertise to handle them.

When asking about a contractor’s experience, be sure to ask specific questions, such as:

• How long have you been in business?

• How many years of experience do your employees have?

• Can you provide references from previous customers?

A reputable roofing contractor should be able to provide clear and concise answers to these questions and demonstrate a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

15. What do online reviews and ratings say about your services?

Online reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into a roofing contractor’s reputation and quality of work. Look for reviews on multiple platforms, such as Google, Yelp, and Facebook, to get a well-rounded view of the contractor’s reputation.

Pay attention to the overall rating and the number of reviews. A contractor with a high overall rating and a large number of reviews is likely to be a reliable and trustworthy choice.

Also, read the actual reviews to get a sense of the contractor’s strengths and weaknesses. Look for reviews that mention specific aspects of the contractor’s service, such as their communication, workmanship, and customer service.

Some common online review platforms to check include:

• Google Reviews

• Yelp

• Facebook Reviews

• Angie’s List

• HomeAdvisor

16. What are some red flags to watch out for in roofing contractors?

When hiring a roofing contractor, it’s essential to be aware of potential red flags that may indicate a contractor is not reputable or reliable. Here are some common red flags to watch out for:

• Lack of certifications or affiliations

• Poor online reviews or ratings

• No physical address or contact information

• Unwillingness to provide references or examples of previous work

• High-pressure sales tactics

• Unusually low prices or estimates

• Lack of transparency about their insurance coverage or workers’ compensation policies

If you notice any of these red flags, it’s best to avoid the contractor and continue your search for a reputable and reliable roofing professional.

Conclusion

Hiring the right roofing contractor is crucial to ensuring a durable, high-quality roof that protects your home for years to come. By asking these essential questions, you can confidently choose a reputable and experienced professional who values transparency, safety, and customer satisfaction. A reliable roofer will have a physical address, proper licensing, insurance coverage, and a solid track record of quality workmanship.

At Five Points Roofing, we take pride in serving our community with honesty and integrity. If you’re looking for a trusted roofing contractor in Franklin, TN, we’re happy to answer all your questions and provide a detailed estimate for your project. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the difference of working with a roofing company that puts your needs first!