DIY projects are gaining traction, especially among the younger crowd. It is a great way to pick up a skill without spending a lot.
Yet, it is a double-edged sword since, without proper tools and experience, a DIY project can end up costing you more than what it would have to book a professional.
In certain professions, such as Residential Roofers, it may be better to steer away from DIY projects and consider calling a contractor.
A simple search for roofing contractors will yield a substantial list of professionals, but their credit needs to be checked.
Roof repairs and replacements are an expensive affair that has consequences if not executed properly.
While referrals from friends and family can give a 3rd person perspective, it can only help you identify the reputed roofing contractors.
The real litmus test is when you ask the right set of questions to a Roofing Contractors Tyler TX to find the best roofing company.
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Choose a Roofing Contractor?
1. Conduct a Local Search
Every place has different weather and requires different types of roof repairs. So, there is no point in searching for roofing contractors in Tyler, TX, if you live in San Antonio.
Search for roofing contractors within your local community as not only will they be familiar faces, but also they shall be well acquainted with the code regulations and community rules.
Many local lumber yards and hardware stores have mutual referral relations with reputed contractors, so it is a great place to start your offline search.
2. Background Research
Once you have shortlisted some perspectives, it is time to investigate their claims.
Make sure that the contractor has a permanent place of business complete with a physical address and tax identification number.
Ask for a list of past projects. Does the contractor have all the state-mandated licenses and permits to undertake a roofing project? Are they a member of the National Roofing Association?
Are the employers working under the contractor having the necessary insurance documentation? Enquire on how long a specific contractor has been in the roofing business.
Shady contractors close shop at the first sign of conflict and move to another state to reopen under a new name.
Don’t be tempted by the discount they offer – stay away from such contractors. Check with your local chamber of commerce and Better Business Bureau for any complaints or red flags.
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3. Talk to past clients
Get in touch with people who recently had their roofs repaired. Ask if they are happy with the work done.
Would they work with the contractor in the future? Look for reviews on different search platforms by past customers.
Check for ratings on popular review platforms such as Clutch, Guild quality, Angie’s List.
The ones with perfect five-star rating may look good as a profile but not trustworthy as the reviews might be fraudulent.
Check the reviews for one star and three-star ratings given by customers to understand what was unsatisfactory about the contractor.
4. Get Multiple estimates
Like you would take a second consultation for a medical problem you may want to be fully sure of, it never hurts to get estimates from multiple contractors.
While there may not be much difference in the end price, you will get a price breakdown of the materials, labour costs, and post-installation services.
A contractor looking out for your best interests would suggest a choice in roofing materials as the costliest wouldn’t always be the best for your requirements.
Similarly, local contractors will have a local workforce, which will translate to lower labour costs.
5. Talk to your contractor
A common mistake most homeowners tend to commit is not interacting with the contractor.
Invite the contractor for inspection, discuss material choice, ask for a rundown on the project timeline and the workforce. Some contractors outsource their work to third party contractors.
This ‘bait-and-switch’ tactic is much frowned upon and therefore voids the manufacturer’s warranty. While they may be the experts, the decision lies with you.
Get involved in the decision-making process and question any aspect that may raise your concerns. Asking questions today will help you avoid the internal conflict arising from shoddy work.
Ask for references and repeat step #3 for maximum peace of mind.
6. Have every agreement in writing
Most homeowners tend to get assistance from the insurance company for getting their roofs replaced. This means you need to submit a documented report to local authorities to apply for an insurance claim.
A contractor’s roofing company has a spokesperson that handles the claims.
Make sure you have all the financing terms in writing from the contractor, and the estimate is not inflated to match all or a part of your deductible.
This is considered insurance fraud, and the insured is slapped with a hefty fine on found guilty. Get a contract signed from the contractor before project commencement that highlights:
- Duration of work
- Safety procedures and liability
- Payment breakdown for any unplanned repairs
- Post-installation debris management
- Payment schedule
- Construction timelines
- Warranty criteria
7. Read the fine prints in the warranty
Legal documents are headaches as people can play with the wordings to find loopholes in your warranty coverage.
Take the time to go through the warranty document to understand the coverage and the post-installation repairs or services.
Ask what happens if the work was unsatisfactory? Would the cost of unplanned repairs be covered in the insurance claims? Look for the process to apply for roof repair during the warranty period.
Traits of a Great Roofing Contractor
Has a permanent business place
The roofing repair contractor has a registered physical address, phone number, and genuine tax identification number and is well-known in the local community.
A claimed Google My Business profile is an indication of the authenticity
Has valid Insurance and Work Permits
The contractor has on-going insurance and has taken all the applicable work permits from the local authorities.
Being registered as a member of the National Roofing Association is a bonus.
Runs a legitimate business
The Commercial Roofing Contractors have genuine reviews and ratings on popular platforms. Response from the contractors is considered as being active and being concerned about the customers.
Great Communication Skills
They understand your requirements and make you a part of the decision process. Any issues or concerns are communicated clearly from the customer’s benefit point of view.
They provide a detailed contract that highlights minute details about the materials, duration, costs, and warranty period.
Wrapping Up
When choosing a roofing contractor, it is important to hire someone who can make the project simple and easy to manage.
Opt for a contractor who is an authorized installer of the shingles and will meet with the insurance representative to handle all the paperwork.
The tips mentioned above should drive you in the right direction and surely help you find an expert roofing contractor that fits your exact needs in terms of experience, costs, and time period.
