Always do some background research on the contractor you wish to use.
Are they locally owned? Do they carry proper licensing as a company? It's important that they offer workman's compensation insurance and general liability in order to cover their company and the property owner in the event of an accident.
Their company coverage is important, because if an accident occurs and they don't have coverage, the liability can fall on you as a homeowner.
2.
Get multiple estimates.
Don't always accept the first estimate.
This allows you to "feel out" the contractor and also get an idea of what the correct price is for the job.
3.
In many cases, the cheapest estimate is not the best estimate.
In construction, the saying "you get what you pay for" still applies.
The cheapest price may look great for your wallet, but the downside can prove costly.
Are the contractors cutting corners? Are they using mediocre products? Do they carry insurance? Is quality factored into their price? 4.
Never pay money upfront.
If a company needs money upfront, then they may not be in a good standing financially.
They can also accept your money and never drive the first nail for your project, which is one of the worst cases of companies giving the construction industry a bad name.
The majority of contractors have accounts set up with their materials dealer, so they are able to cover materials, then pay their labor once the job is complete.
5.
Be weary about door-to-door tactics, especially in dealing with roofing contractors and storm damage.
There are many storm chasers that will enter the area when a storm hits.
They can come from neighboring states, and if used, when problems arise, getting them back out can be a hassle.
6.
Do a little reading up on bits of your project, and ask the contractor questions when he comes out.
Test his knowledge base.
He should not have a problem answering your questions.
7.
Check the Better Business Bureau.
There are many companies that are listed on the BBB, but that doesn't mean they have great reviews.
See what other people are saying about their business.
View their site here.
8.
Be sure that your contractor's estimate is very detailed.
Ultimately if you decide to sign a contract for the work to be completed, you will definitely want to know what materials are being used.
- The type of products, manufacturer, color, size, etc
- Scope of work to be done
- This may be one of the most important steps listed.
When homeowners and contractors are on separate pages about the work to be completed, this can lead to problems.
For example a homeowner may have assumed certain work was included, while the contractor knew it wasn't included.
This errors in communication can lead to disputes, making your project harder than it needs to be. - Who is responsible for repairing/replacing anything that is damaged during the course of the work
- Approximate starting and completion dates
- Payment methods which are accepted
- Length of warranty and what is covered.
Get everything put in writing.
A reputable contractor will spell everything out in a contract which will require both the homeowner's signature and the contractor's signature.
Don't be afraid to tell the contractor items you would like listed in the contract.
This is your project, so you can state your case! 10.
Ask for references.
Ask for other jobs that you can view.
Ask for photos.
Ask, ask, ask!!! A reputable company should have no problem supplying you with everything you need to make a sound decision.
A contractor that does a great job enjoys the fact that he is good at what he does.
Often times he will jump at the opportunity to give you references, or addresses of his past projects.
There are good, reputable roofing companies out there, just do your homework!