Top 10 Thinks to Ask Before Choosing a Roofer
Contractor's License
Contact state and local licensing boards to ensure a roofing contractor has all the appropriate licenses for your area. If you use an unlicensed contractor, the state will not be able to help you when or if something goes wrong.
- Insurance
Require potential contractor to show proof of insurance - for both worker's compensation and general liability insurance.
- Permits
Any work over $750 requires a city permit and should be issued by the contractor. Be careful if a contractor tells you to get the permit, because now you, the homeowner, agrees to be the responsible party for insurance and liability with the city.
- References
Ask the contractor for references of past customers who have the same type of roofing system being installed for you. Contact the references to see if the contractor completed the job satisfactorily.
- Deposits
In California, by law a contractor is only allowed to ask for a 10% deposit before starting the work. If he asks for anything more, then he may be using your money to pay for past bills. A company that is financially secure and trusted by material suppliers does not need to ask for a deposit unless the job is using custom material or is an extremely large project.
- Material
and Labor Releases
Request that the contractor issue these releases upon completion for any new construction as it releases you from financial liability if the contractor does not pay his material or labor bills for work at your property.
- Safety Program
Require the contractor to have a written safety program. An emphasis on safety ultimately lowers the cost of doing business and further assures that your job will go smoothly.
- Knowledge
of Industry
Roofing contractors should be knowledgeable about the latest developments in the industry. Ask if the contractor is a member of a local, regional or national association.
- Place of Business
Make sure the roofing contractor has a permanent and identifiable place of business, complete with phone number and physical address.
- Your Comfort Level
Most of all, make sure you feel comfortable that the company has the experience and expertise to handle your roof installation.