How to Compare Roofing Contractors
Five Questions you can't afford to forget about when choosing a roofing company
When obtaining bids, its important to interview each roofing installer to determine whether you should use them for your new roof. Taking the time to choose the right roofing contractor the first time will save you money and frustration down the road. At the minimum, you should ask every roofer that provides an estimate the following five questions.
Is the roofing company licensed and insured?
New Jersey requires roofing contractors to be licensed. Roofing projects may be stopped in middle by local code officials if an unlicensed roofer is doing the installation. Insurance is extremely important because if a worker is hurt and the roofing contractor does not have insurance, the homeowner is liable. Make sure the roofing contractor shows you the documents in addition to telling you they are insured.
How long has the roofing company been in business?
Longer is typically better. Any roofing companies in business less than three years should be scrutinzed more closely. A new roofing company should not be disqualified from your decision making process, but if everything else is equal, more experience as a roofer is generally preferable.
Will the roofing company provide referrals or references from previous jobs?
Ask for a list of ten names and phone numbers of recent customers. It is not necessary to call all ten, but choose two or three randomly and call. Ask the referrals at minimum four questions. First, did he perform his work on a timely basis? Second, was he responsive when asked for information and changes? Third, did he act as if he cared about the customers interests? Finally, would you call the roofing contractor trustworthy?
What is the roofing contractor's warranty?
A roof warranty consists of two parts, one for roofing materials and one for the workmanship. Most workmanship errors on a new roof will be found within the first year. However, problems can develop over time, and its important that the roofing company backs up their work for at least a few years after the installation. The warranty on roofing shingles and other roofing materials is from the manufacturer. Many warranties are pro-rated after a certain period of time so its important to read the fine print. Make sure you understand exactly what the warranties from the roof installer, and the roofing supplier cover, and ask for a copy of each.
Is the roofer certified by any manufacturers?
Most reputable roofing companies are affialiated with the manufactuer of the rooifng shingles they plan to install on your home. Being certified by a manufacturer has several benefits. It ensures that the contractor has been vetted by another source(although every manufacturer has different standards for its affiliated roofing contractors). Most manufacturers require a company to be licensed, insured and have a certain number of years experience in order to qualify. A certified roofing installer will also be familiar with the roofing system they plan to install, which decreases the chance of problems with the installation. Finally, certified roofing contractors are usually able to offer extended warranties on both labor and materials, that non-certified roofing companies cannot provide.
