Hiring a roofing company is a significant decision, especially when you want to replace your home’s roof. Unreliable contractors can cost you a lot of money and cause inconvenience. Asking the right questions can help you avoid pitfalls and find a trustworthy roofer. Let’s explore the top 15 questions you should ask during the estimate and on-site consultation.
1. How Long Have You Been in Business?
It is essential to choose a roofing company that is local to your home. Some states do not even allow roofing contractors to operate without a physical location. How long the contractor has been in business matters, too. You want to have confidence that the roofer will be there in the months ahead to stand behind the installation.
2. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Most states require roofing contractors to have a license and insurance. Any reluctance to provide this information is a red flag. It’s such a common request that many larger companies post their license number and related details on their trucks.
As for insurance, there are two main points to consider: liability and workers’ compensation. Liability insurance protects you in case the roofers accidentally damage your home during the installation. Workers’ compensation protects you if one of the roofers suffers an injury.
3. What Are Your Certifications and Trade Associations?
The roofing industry has many relevant trade associations and manufacturer certifications. These relationships matter because they are evidence of an investment in the industry. Most companies strive for Better Business Bureau accreditation with a minimum A+ rating. They will also seek certifications, such as CertainTeed’s ShingleMaster, for the products they work with most often.
4. Do You Use Subcontractors?
Using subcontractors isn’t necessarily a deal breaker, but it does increase your risk. Many experts advise against hiring a roofing contractor who uses subcontractors exclusively. It’s common for smaller companies to use subcontractors for specialized skills that they may not need regularly. Still, to protect yourself, you must vet the subcontractor regarding years in business, licensing, insurance, and so forth.
5. What Do You Include in Your Estimates?
It’s important to know everything that a roofing company includes in an estimate upfront. A roofing estimate should contain the current condition of the roof, proposed work, and any information regarding permits. It should also indicate a project timeline.
There should also be a detailed breakdown of materials and labor, including hours and rates. It should explain how the roofing team will protect the property as the installation unfolds. You should also receive details on what to expect if the company needs to add costs or extend the timeline.
6. How Long Are Your Estimates Good For?
Experts recommend scheduling at least three estimates before hiring a roof replacement contractor. Once you’ve completed those estimates, you’ll need some time to compare them and perform additional vetting. How much time do you have?
The industry standard is 90 days, but it’s crucial to verify. Be wary of companies that have short timelines. Less reputable contractors may use this as a pressure tactic to get you to accept their bid.
7. When Can You Begin?
A roofing company typically needs two to six weeks after signing a contract. This timeframe allows them to coordinate the project, acquire materials, and finalize other jobs. Small to midsize companies that are in high demand may require additional time. Whether you can wait for a contractor depends on the condition of your roof. If a roofer wants to start right away, it isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it could be a warning sign.
8. How Long Will the Project Take?
The duration of a roof replacement depends on the size of the roof and the number of personnel on the roofing team. Other factors may include any special materials or unique features of the house. Most reroofing projects are completed within three days, with many finished in just one day. If a project takes longer, it is worth investigating, as it could indicate that the roofing company is spreading itself too thin.
9. Will You Provide References for Local Projects?
When you have a roofer give you an estimate, ask for references. References should be from local customers who have recently paid for work similar to yours. Be sure to follow up on them. Both satisfied and unsatisfied customers are eager to talk about their experiences and can be an invaluable source of information. An unwillingness or inability to provide references is a red flag.
10. What Does Your Reroofing Service Entail?
It’s not uncommon for a roofer to install new shingles on top of old ones. That’s why it’s critical to understand precisely what reroofing means to that contractor. Determine if permits are required and whether the roofer handles them. Reroofing should include tear-off and disposal. You must also determine what the roofer will do regarding flashing, underlayment, roof ventilation components, and, if applicable, any damaged decking.
11. What Does Your Workmanship Warranty Entail?
The standard warranty you receive with a roof replacement is the manufacturer’s warranty, which mainly protects you against manufacturing defects. Some extended warranties may also cover labor and other aspects of the installation. Your primary protection against installation defects comes from the roofing company’s workmanship warranty. Such warranties should be explicit and included in the job estimate.
12. How Do You Handle Debris After the Tear-Off?
The tear-off involves removing the old roof, which often results in considerable debris. The roofer will generally handle the proper disposal of that debris, but it’s advisable to have this agreement in writing. Customers concerned about the environmental impact should also discuss it with the roofer. If the roofing company plans to take materials to a recycling center, for instance, you should ensure that this is documented in writing as well.
13. Do You Clean Up Daily?
You should expect your roofer to clean up at the end of each workday, but you’ll want it in writing. Otherwise, you may have an unkempt and unsafe landscape for multiple days, even perhaps over a weekend.
14. Do You Have Any Specials Available?
Roofing companies often run their own promotions and have special offers available through their partners. In some cases, they won’t tell you about them unless you inquire. As the adage goes, it never hurts to ask.
15. Is Financing Available Through Your Company?
Many homeowners finance their roof replacements. There is often an expectation that they will do so directly through the roofing company. That said, not all roofing contractors offer financing. If yours doesn’t, you will need to explore other avenues for financing your project. Among those that do, there are often specials associated with those financing options.
Residential Roofing Contractor in the Greater Charlotte Area
Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations has been a family-owned and -operated roofing company since 1994. We’re based in Charlotte, NC, and we’re happy to answer all your questions. Our skilled roofing team is available for inspections, maintenance, repairs, and installations. We’re proud to be partnered with CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMasters, but we work with all roofing brands and products. To learn more about what we do, call us today or contact us online through our website.
