Roofing – 4 Tips to Follow When Making a Decision

Initially, it may seem like a simple task to call an expert regarding your covering for your property. However, you will spend a decent amount on money on roofing work, so you should feel at ease with whom you hire. Before spending your cash, be thorough in your selection process and do not feel bad about asking an assortment of questions.

Confirm credentials
Anyone can tell you how great they are or how well they work. But unless they have something to back up those claims, their words are just words. One of the first things to find out is whether or not they are an experienced professional with examples of their work. Go to their website or ask to see pictures of different jobs so you can get a feel for how they produce. Also, inquire about their license as well as if they have current insurance. Anything can happen on a job, especially when it comes to roofing, so be sure to find out if they are covered. If they are not, move on to someone else, because if they get hurt on your property you could be held liable.

Ask about subcontractors
Sometimes, a roofing expert may sell you on all their expertise, experience and affordable pricing. Yet, when it is time to actually start the job, a stranger shows up that you did not know about. While subcontractors are common, it is important that you ask about such issues upfront and discuss whether you are okay with it. Some people are very specific about who does their work and who doesn’t, so if this sounds like you, make a point to find out about these possibilities ahead of time.

Allow for the unexpected
Once you think you have covered everything, don’t forget to ask about things that come up and how they’re handled. This means you should ask about rain or other weather that could potentially affect the roofing job. Find out what other customers have said about this same issue. If weather causes damage to specific materials and supplies, is the contractor going to replace them or are you expected to do it? All these things may not be common, but can happen, so it is essential to address them ahead of time to make sure you are not stuck with surprises later.

Insist on a written estimate
Some people have the best demeanor and make you feel like you “click” with them immediately. However, regardless of how nice someone seems, do not trust their word alone. These actions can leave you in a world of trouble since if something happens; it’s your word against theirs. Be sure to get everything you discussed in writing. This way, if you want to question any part of the roofing project or a price, you can refer to your written estimate as a reference. Also, if any part of a job was not completed as discussed, you can go to your written estimate. Bottom line, an actual document can be more assistance during a dispute than simply going by your memory of the conversation.