What to look for when hiring a roofer

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor home improvement projects, and one of the most critical components of your home is the roof. It provides essential protection against the elements and contributes to the structural integrity of your property.

When it’s time to repair or replace your roof, hiring the right roofer is crucial to ensuring quality work and peace of mind. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to look for when hiring a roofer.

Shop around and get multiple quotes

Take the time to shop around and obtain at least three quotes from reputable roofers. When evaluating these quotes, consider not just the price, but also factors such as communication, professionalism, licensure and reviews. Ask prospective contractors for samples of their previous work, review their portfolios and speak with past clients to verify the quality of their work.

Additionally, check their ratings and reviews on the Better Business Bureau website and other social-media websites to ensure they have a solid reputation and track record of resolving customer complaints. This comprehensive approach will help you find a reliable roofer who meets your needs.

Lookout for a license

Not every state requires roofers to be licensed. In fact, Connecticut, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Vermont don’t have such statewide requirements. Nonetheless, certain counties and local municipalities within these states may require roofers to be licensed.

If your local government has a licensure or registration requirement, then ensure you hire a licensed roofing contractor.

Verify insurance coverage

Roofing contractors, often known as roofers, are legally required to have workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. This insurance protects against third-party injuries and accidental property damage, covering repair costs and legal fees.

Workers’ compensation also is essential for covering medical expenses and lost wages if a roofer is injured on the job. To ensure your roofing contractor meets these requirements, request a certificate of insurance to verify his or her full bonding and insurance coverage.

Detailed estimates

Obtain detailed written estimates from multiple roofing contractors. A thorough estimate should include the project timeline, cost of materials, labor and any additional expenses. Knowing these costs upfront helps property owners understand what they are paying for and allows for effective comparison of different contractors. Be wary of significantly low bids, as they may indicate subpar materials or workmanship.

Secure a written contract

In certain states, contracts for roofing goods and services must be in writing and include specific details. These details should cover the contractor’s name, address and phone number; an estimated timeline with start and finish dates; a detailed description of the work to be completed; and a comprehensive pricing list that includes the cost of supplies and labor.

Warranties on roofing work

Roofing warranties can be broadly categorized into three types: standard manufacturer’s warranties, contractor workmanship warranties and extended manufacturer’s warranties.

Standard manufacturer’s warranties cover the cost of defective materials for a limited period, typically excluding labor costs.

Contractor workmanship warranties protect against installation errors, covering both labor and materials needed for repairs.

Extended manufacturer’s warranties provide more comprehensive coverage, including both materials and workmanship, often for an extended period. Understanding these distinctions helps homeowners make informed decisions about their roofing investments.

Takeaways

By diligently following this comprehensive guide, you can confidently hire a roofer who will deliver high-quality results. This will help to ensure your home remains protected and structurally sound for years to come, providing you with peace of mind that your investment is secure, and your roofing needs are expertly addressed.