Roof repair, replacement, maintenance, or new roof installation requires skills, professionalism, knowledge, experience, and advanced tools. Roofing projects are costly, and everyone wants someone who can do the job right the first time. Letting anyone handle the roof job involves risk and can cost you a lot of time, money, and convenience. A roofing contractor is the best person to look for if you need your roof worked on.

However, finding a high-quality roofer to repair or replace the roof is very challenging. Countless roofing professionals are working in every region. Some of them are experts, few are still learning, and others are just fly-by-night contractors looking to steal your hard-earned money. Therefore, it is essential to stay cautious and choose a reliable roofer for all your roofing needs.

Here is a small checklist of things you should consider while hiring a roofing contractor:

Experience

Look for established companies who have been in the business for more than ten years minimum. Working with a professional with years of experience, a good reputation, and a track record of high-quality work will protect you from falling victim to unscrupulous contractors. Established professionals are more likely to offer emergency services and will be available whenever needed.

Proper licensing and insurance

All roofing projects are dangerous and carry a bit of risk. Several states require a proper license for roofing contractors to operate their business. Ensure to verify that the contractor has a legal and up-to-date license issued by the concerned authority. An insurance certificate is another thing that you should ask for before deciding on a roofer. He should particularly have liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance to protect you and the workers if something goes wrong during the roofing project.

Services offered

Roofing services may vary from contractor to contractor. Look for a full-service roofing company that can manage all your roofing needs, including inspections, maintenance, repairs, installation, replacement, weatherproofing, debris removal, insulation, and ventilation. Various roofers also offer siding, gutter, and window services. Select a contractor that can fulfill your roofing requirements effectively.

Safety precautions

Roofing involves dangerous activities like bending, climbing, and heavy-lifting, even during unfavorable weather conditions. Accidents are not uncommon and cause damages or lead to severe injuries that can even prove fatal at times. When hiring a contractor, ensure that the crew is properly trained, experienced, and has all the required safety tools, equipment, and gear, like harnesses, edge-guards, ropes and rope guards, boots, and leather gloves to protect them from falling. The safety of the workers, client, and property should be the top priority of a roofer.

Check reviews

Reputable contractors usually have plenty of positive reviews across multiple popular websites. Evaluate carefully what people are talking about them and how the contractor has responded to negative feedback. Avoid contractors with no online reviews and look for someone with an excellent reputation.

Examine the past work

Another option is to ask for a list of previous customers they have worked for and call them to ask about their experience with the particular contractor. Also, ask them about the portfolio to understand the type and quality of work they can deliver. Do the homework and look for a roofer with good communication skills and the ability to provide quality results within the said timeframe and budget.

Local address

A way to avoid storm chasers is to work with a roofer having a local office address. To have a point of contact is convenient as you can visit them if there is any need. Meeting a contractor in person can help get an idea about their working style and trustworthiness. They are also aware of the local rules and regulations and can carry out the work accordingly.

Warranty

Most residential roofers offer warranties on their products and services covering labor and material defects. It means that the roofing work is guaranteed for a particular period, and the roofer will fix any issue at no extra cost.

Customer service, cost, who will work on the project, and written contract are a few other things to consider while choosing a roofing contractor. Use these tips to hire a roofer who does not cut corners and provides quality roofing services.