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6 Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor
When you need some roofing work done, the process of finding the right
roofing contractor can seem daunting. According to Roofing Insights, the roofing industry experienced an annual growth of 2.7% between 2015 and 2020. That means you have many options to choose from, so it's crucial to ask the right questions and use your findings to make an informed decision. Below, we consider the six top questions to ask a roofing contractor before hiring one.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is usually the first question to ask a roofing contractor. After all, any person can call themselves a roofing professional, but you might be setting yourself up for failure by dealing with someone who doesn't have the right credentials. For roofing contractors to be certified by the state, they must complete training and pass a licensing exam, among other things. Besides having proper licensing and certification, a legitimate roofer should also have general liability insurance and workers' comp at the very least. They also should be able to provide these things promptly and without hesitation.
2. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience is a critical factor that differentiates roofing contractors. An experienced professional is likely to know how to perform the job optimally. If the roofing contractor is working with a crew, you can also enquire about the crew's training and experience. As a follow-up to this question, ask about where the contractor operates to determine if they're local or not. It's better to deal with a local contractor as this ensures better availability. Additionally, local businesses that are part of your community are more likely to offer quality service because they value their reputation more.
3. Can I Talk to Previous Customers or View Past Projects?
Before you reach out to speak with a potential roofing contractor, it's recommended that you do your own research to verify their reputation and track record. You can easily do this online by reading Yelp and Google Reviews. By the time you ask to speak with past customers or view past projects, you should already have a good idea of whether you're dealing with a reputable professional. Get at least three references that you can speak with to get more details about how the contractor does their job. If you're dedicated to the process, you can ask to visit a project the contractor is currently working on so you can see their craftsmanship firsthand.
4. How Will the Roofing Project Proceed?
This question ensures that you get as much detail as possible about your roofing project so you can manage your expectations. You want to know how soon your project can begin, how long it will take to complete, who exactly will be working on the project, whether a building permit is required, and the general steps the contractor will take from start to finish. You also want to understand what the contractor will do to keep you, your home, and your family safe.
5. Can You Provide Me With a Written Estimate?
Your chat with a potential roofing contractor is not complete without first discussing pricing. You need to find a contractor with fair prices who's willing to provide a written estimate. A written estimate reduces the risk of confusion and allows you to budget with more certainty. Keep in mind that your contractor is only able to provide you with a more accurate estimate after they have evaluated your roof or carefully assessed the details of your project. Getting a more accurate estimate with a detailed breakdown of costs is preferable as it prevents financial surprises down the line.
6. Who Will Be My Contact During the Project?
Make sure you know who to contact in case you have more questions to ask or concerns throughout the project. A contractor with excellent customer service should be easily accessible when you need to reach them. They should also be forthcoming with any changes or updates as they arise. Finding a contractor with a great communication style and good rapport will ensure that the project proceeds with fewer complaints or frustrations on your part.
These are the top questions to ask a potential roofing contractor. However, you may have your own to add to the list. If you're ready to speak to experts with an outstanding reputation in the community, give Huey & Sons Roofing a call today. We'd love to chat with you!
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