Is your roof starting to leak? One tiny leak can have monstrous consequences. If your roof is old or damaged, it’s important to get it replaced right away.
There are now over 112,500 roofing companies employing over 276,700 professionals in the industry. It’s not enough to call the first person you find online. You need to vet your local roof replacement companies before you hire someone.
Otherwise, they might lack the experience and expertise you need.
Here are eight tips to help you find a quality roofing company. Knowing what to look for is essential. Otherwise, you could waste valuable time with an inexperienced contractor.
Put a strong roof over your family’s heads! Start your search with these eight easy tips today.
1. Talk to Your Inner Circle
You can streamline your search by talking with neighbors, family members, and friends in the area. If one of them called a roofing company recently, talk to them. Ask about their experience.
Learning from their firsthand experience can give you an insider’s look into each roofing company.
Try to learn as much as you can about their experience. Ask:
- If the roofing company was professional
- If they encountered any problems while working with the team
- How those problems were resolved
- If they felt they paid a good price
- Would they recommend you choose someone else
If you don’t know someone who researched roof replacement companies in the area recently, that’s okay. Head online and search for “the best roofing contractors near me.”
Then, start making a list. You can use the rest of these tips to narrow down your options.
2. Review Their Qualifications
Before hiring anyone to work on your home, it’s important to consider their credentials. Knowing what to look for will ensure a professional works on your property. If they’re not qualified for the job, they could make costly mistakes.
It’s their job to protect your home, family, and possessions from the elements. If they do a rush job, they might do more harm than good.
Instead, look for roof replacement companies with experience and expertise you can count on.
First, look for a company that’s operated for years in the area. These companies have gained the respect of their local clients. They’ve also outlasted the competition in that time.
A new company, on the other hand, might still need to make adjustments to its operations.
There’s no formal education required for someone to become a roofing contractor. Most people learn from hands-on experience. However, you should still ask for proof that the company is licensed.
Make sure they’re licensed to practice in the state. Some states require contractors to have a license before they get started.
Roofing contractors need about two years of hands-on experience before taking the licensing exam. You can check the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA). There, you can confirm each contractor’s license is legit.
When finding the best, it’s important to make sure they’re bonded and insured, too. Otherwise, they might hold you liable if an accident occurs.
Finding a licensed, bonded, and insured team will give you peace of mind.
3. Read Up on Reviews
About 95% of consumers read online reviews before making a purchase. Another 90% read reviews to find a quality local business. You can, too!
Check the company’s Google My Business and Better Business Bureau listings. Read reviews from a handful of their most recent clients. Are people complaining?
You might see one or two negative comments. That’s normal. If the bad outweighs the good, however, scratch that company off your list.
Look for reviews that indicate that the company is professional, timely, and efficient.
4. Understand Their Services
Knowing what to look for can save you valuable time in the long run. Otherwise, you could hire a company that doesn’t offer the services you need.
For example, some roofing contractors only complete minor work. Others can replace your entire roof. Review their entire list of services, which might include:
- New roofs
- Re-roofing
- Roof repairs
- Emergency leaks
- Steep slopes
- Low slopes/single ply
- Wood shake conversions
- Insurance claim specialists
- Storm damage experts
- Gutter guards
- Seamless gutters
- Skylights/solar tubes
- Ventilation
Choosing a business that offers the services you need can make your life easier. You’ll know you can call on them the next time you need help.
5. Consider Their Process
Before you hire a quality roofing company, ask about their work process.
They shouldn’t install new shingles over your old roof. That could add unnecessary weight to an old, damaged roof. The roof might even collapse, causing additional damages and potential injuries.
Instead, ask how they plan on replacing your current roof. They should offer a long-term solution, not a short-term fix.
6. Peruse a Portfolio
As you run through this checklist, make sure to ask each company for proof of their recent projects. Reviewing their portfolio can help you determine if their work meets your standards.
If their work doesn’t meet your expectations, hire someone else.
7. Get Three Estimates
As you begin narrowing down your options, ask for quotes from at least three roof replacement companies in the area. Gathering three quotes will help you determine the local average.
Don’t rush to hire the cheapest option, though. Instead, make sure you understand what’s included in the quote. Are there any additional fees you’ll need to know about?
Make sure you’re choosing a quality roofing company that also suits your budget.
8. Check the Contract
Don’t forget to review the company’s contract before you sign on the dotted line.
Make sure everything you discussed is in writing. If there are any arguments, you can use the contract to handle those disputes.
Does the company offer a warranty? Make sure they have a plan to make things right if you’re not satisfied with their work. Those companies will have your best interests in mind.
Get a Roof Overhead: 8 Tips for Vetting Roof Replacement Companies
Don’t rush to hire the first roofing company you find online. Instead, use these tips for vetting roof replacement companies in your area. With this checklist, you can find the best roofing team around.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve chosen a quality, talented team you can trust.
Want to schedule your free inspection? We’re happy to help.
Contact us today to get started.
