Contractors
The hardest part for homeowners is choosing the right person to do the job.
After a damaging storm, they need to quickly get back to normal and perform the necessary roofing repairs. But that doesn't mean they should just choose the first contractor who knocks on their door. Finding a contractor who is trustworthy, honest, and professional may sound difficult - but that's where you come in. Contractors should share these 10 important tips with homeowners to show them that your company is reputable and can be trusted to protect their home and their wallet.
1
Obtain a Written Contract
Obtain a written contract that stipulates what services will be provided. Make sure that the contract covers the cost of service as well as the payment method.
Obtain a Written Contract
Obtain a written contract that stipulates what services will be provided. Make sure that the contract covers the cost of service as well as the payment method.
2
Ask About the Contractor's State License
Before signing on the dotted line, get in touch with your local authorities. Call your local building department. You can also contact the Department of Business and Professional Regulation at 850-487-1395. They can confirm whether or not your roofing contractor is licensed in the state.
Ask About the Contractor's State License
Before signing on the dotted line, get in touch with your local authorities. Call your local building department. You can also contact the Department of Business and Professional Regulation at 850-487-1395. They can confirm whether or not your roofing contractor is licensed in the state.
3
Roofing Is a Tough, Risky Business
Roofing is beset with injuries and damage claims. Responsible roofing contractors properly insure their employees and their customers. Ask to see their worker's compensation policy and liability policy. Before working with a company, ask if they have general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. If they cannot come up with these documents, it means that they are not covered by insurance that the state law requires. As such, you may become accountable for any injuries and damages that may take place on your property.
Roofing Is a Tough, Risky Business
Roofing is beset with injuries and damage claims. Responsible roofing contractors properly insure their employees and their customers. Ask to see their worker's compensation policy and liability policy. Before working with a company, ask if they have general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. If they cannot come up with these documents, it means that they are not covered by insurance that the state law requires. As such, you may become accountable for any injuries and damages that may take place on your property.
4
Make Sure That the Contractor Gets a Building Permit
The roofing contractor must comply with local codes. Every installation should be inspected by the local building inspector. WARNING - Do not pull a permit yourself! Require your contractor to secure a building permit, and it should be posted on your property before they begin the work. Never apply for the permit yourself.
Make Sure That the Contractor Gets a Building Permit
The roofing contractor must comply with local codes. Every installation should be inspected by the local building inspector. WARNING - Do not pull a permit yourself! Require your contractor to secure a building permit, and it should be posted on your property before they begin the work. Never apply for the permit yourself.
5
Request a Lien Waiver
Request a Lien Waiver from the contractor upon making the final payment for your project.
Request a Lien Waiver
Request a Lien Waiver from the contractor upon making the final payment for your project.
6
If the Deal Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is
A properly designed and properly installed roof can save you up to 50% of your annual heating and cooling costs. Remember the old cliché, "There is no free lunch."
If the Deal Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is
A properly designed and properly installed roof can save you up to 50% of your annual heating and cooling costs. Remember the old cliché, "There is no free lunch."
7
Don't Be Pressured Into Making Deals Right Away
Be careful of those who push you into making on-the-spot decisions. All contractors prefer to make an immediate deal. However, any good contractor allows you some time to think things through before making a final agreement.
Don't Be Pressured Into Making Deals Right Away
Be careful of those who push you into making on-the-spot decisions. All contractors prefer to make an immediate deal. However, any good contractor allows you some time to think things through before making a final agreement.
8
Get Two or Three Bids and Compare the Offers
Price isn't everything, but a written bid can help you see how much each contractor is offering you for your money. Be sure to compare "apples to apples." There are several roofing systems available, but the important thing for you to do is to be sure the system has received product approval.
Get Two or Three Bids and Compare the Offers
Price isn't everything, but a written bid can help you see how much each contractor is offering you for your money. Be sure to compare "apples to apples." There are several roofing systems available, but the important thing for you to do is to be sure the system has received product approval.
9
Know Your Material Choices
Shingle or tile color and style can affect the resale value of your home. Know your choices.
Know Your Material Choices
Shingle or tile color and style can affect the resale value of your home. Know your choices.