10 Tips on How to Choose a Roofing Contractor

When repairing roof damage, your priority as a homeowner is to know how to choose a roofing contractor who can do the job right the first time. You should always be selective about the roofing contractor you work with.

Below are 10 tips on how to choose a roofing contractor and the red flags you should spot for a poorly qualified roofer.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Hiring a poorly qualified roofing contractor risks shoddy work and leaves your property vulnerable to future damage. If you want to avoid poorly qualified roofers, stay alert for these warning signs:

• Requests for full payment upfront.
• They have unusually low quotes that seem too good to be true.
• Lack of a physical business location.
• No written contract outlining the scope of work, timeline, and pricing.
• Does not offer warranties or insurance coverage.

Whether you need a minor fix or a major replacement, the contractor you choose will determine the quality, durability, and lifespan of your roof.

1. Choose a Roofing Contractor with Positive Online Reviews

Client feedback is so important. You want to ensure that the contractor you work with is trusted by its customers and stands by its workmanship. You can look online for reviews of the company. You should also consider asking the contractor for several referrals from current and former clients. Reach out to these clients and ask them if they are comfortable recommending the contractor.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when reading reviews:

• Are customers satisfied with the quality of work?
• Was the project completed on time and within budget?
• How does the contractor respond to negative reviews?

2. Choose a Local Roofing Contractor

It is best to hire a roofing contractor located in your local area. Why? Local roofing contractors know the ins and outs of local laws and code regulations. In addition, you want to make sure that the company you choose is nearby to take care of your roof. You do not want to go with a fly-by-night roofer who shows up after a storm and then leaves the area afterwards.

3. A Trustworthy Roofing Contractor Will Not Rush You into Signing a Contract

Review the entire contract before signing. The contract should include a written estimate that details any oral promises previously made by the contractor. It should also include the timeline of their project plan. You deserve an explanation of every portion of the contract, especially if it has vague language.

4. A Roofing Contractor Should Have the Best Equipment and Materials

At Elevated Roofing, we use only the best equipment and materials for roofs. We refuse to use low-quality materials as we genuinely care about our customers. Our crew makes use of top-of-the-line products for every project. Our commitment to using the best materials means we stand behind our work.

5. Hire a Roofing Contractor with Years of Experience

Consider the roofing contractor’s number of years in business. Have they served local property owners for years? Are the reviews positive? There is a good chance the contractor is trustworthy. Elevated Roofing fits this description perfectly. We have been in business for more than two decades for good reason. Our customers are more than satisfied with the quality of our work.

6. Choose a Roofing Contractor Certified by Roof Manufacturers

As manufacturer-certified contractors, we ensure your roof is installed at the highest level, meaning out clients get the highest level of warranties. We work with many of the top roofing material manufacturers, like GAF or Owens Corning, and provide certifications to roof contractors who meet their high standards of reliability and workmanship. Manufacturers certifying a contractor is a great way to ensure you’re working with a legitimate business. Other wise, the manufacturer wouldn’t put their name behind them.

7. Choose a Roofing Contractor Who Gives Free Roof Inspections

Before making any decisions, ask if the roofing contractor offers free roof inspections. A detailed inspection allows them to assess the condition of your roof, identify flaws in your roof’s structure, and recommend the best course of action.

A free inspection also gives you the opportunity to observe how serious the roofing contractor is about their job.

• Do they arrive on time?
• Do they take their time to examine your roof thoroughly?
• Do they explain their findings clearly and answer your questions?

8. Choose a Roofing Contractor with Emergency Roof Services

Emergencies can strike at any time. Ask if your roofing contractor provides emergency coverage and how quickly they can respond in the event of urgent repairs. Whether it’s damage from a storm or a sudden leak, choosing a roofing contractor who offers 24/7 emergency services can be a lifesaver.

9. Find a Roofing Contractor with Open Lines of Communication

If you have any questions or concerns, you should be able to pick up the phone and contact your roofing contractor right away. Communication is essential to ensuring your roofing project is done exactly as you want in a reasonable amount of time. You will undoubtedly have some questions and concerns during this process. If you cannot contact the roofing contractor or get a response in a reasonable timeframe, the roofing company is not worth your business.

10. Choose a Roofing Contractor with a Physical Business Location

Avoid contractors who only operate outside their homes or use P.O. boxes as their primary contact information. A stable, reputable roofing contractor should have a physical business location. This makes it easier for you and other clients to raise issues or concerns that need to be addressed in person.

Legal Aspects of Choosing a Roofing Contractor

Before working with a roofing contractor, be aware of the following legal considerations:

Proof of Insurance

When selecting a roofing contractor, ensure they can provide workers’ compensation and liability insurance. These protect you from being held accountable for any injuries or damages that may occur during the project.

Lien Releases

Make sure to get lien releases from the contractor before making any payments. These releases prove that all subcontractors, suppliers, and workers have been paid for their services. Without these releases, you may be at risk of being held liable for any unpaid debts by the roofing contractor.

Building Permits

Choose a roofing contractor who helps you meet building codes in your local area. Before working on your roof, ask how they plan to obtain building permits to meet safety standards.

Choose Elevated Roofing as Your Roofing Contractor

If you suspect you need a roof repair or replacement, Elevated Roofing can help. Our team does everything from free roof assessments to repairs and replacements. Every roof should be inspected at least once per year, regardless of whether it is on a home or a commercial property.

Ask around and you will find our roofing company is revered throughout the community. Elevated Roofing is worth your trust. Give us a call at (469) 689-5676 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.