When hiring a roofing contractor, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. For starters, this isn’t something you’ll do often with any luck. Some shingles can last for 50 years or more before needing to be replaced!
But because of the potential and the expenses involved, you need to make sure you’re hiring the right people. And that means asking questions. Here are six great ones to get you started.
1. What Are Some Other Jobs You’ve Worked On?
A reputable roofing company will have no trouble pointing you toward some of their past projects. Don’t just take their word for it. Go to those locations. Talk to the owners of those buildings if you can, and see what they have to say about the work. If you can swing it, go to a job in motion and observe the crew.
2. How Long Will the Project Last?
Many full-scale roof replacements can be done in a single day depending on the size and talent of the crew involved. However, don’t just assume it’ll go fast. Ask the project manager directly how long it will take them from the time they come out to clean up. Don’t allow yourself to be surprised by a job that goes too long.
3. Will You Handle Permitting?
City ordinances and regulations are different across the country, but for residential and commercial roofing work, permits are usually involved. Most contractors will handle this for you, but make sure you ask before assuming. The last thing you want is for a contractor to be doing unpermitted work on your house.
4. What Are Your Safety Standards?
How do they work to ensure your safety as well as the safety of the crew they’re using? This is worth knowing if nothing more for the peace of mind it brings.
5. How Will You Handle Inclement Weather?
It happens. Rain or thunderstorms can wash out an entire day of productivity. Make sure you understand how the team will plan to reschedule so you can make the proper preparations in your personal and professional lives.
6. What’s Your Experience Working with Insurers?
Some jobs are too expensive to pay out-of-pocket. Most reputable roofers understand that, and they’ll work with you through the filing of a claim. Some even offer special financing.
Get the Answers You Need
Before agreeing to anything, ask all these questions as well as any others that come to mind. Make sure it’s a good working relationship before it begins, and you’ll never have regrets. Do you have questions for us? Please feel free to ask them at our contact address.
[Featured Image by Wikipedia Commons]
