Roofing contractors are everywhere you look. Everyone claims that they do the best possible job for the least amount of money, but how can you tell which roofing contractor is the best fit for your job?
So, you've done your research and have narrowed it down to a few roofers that you think will do your job properly, on time and within budget. You have talked to your neighbors, your friends and looked online for suggestions. You have clicked on pictures and testimonials and read all about these roofers. Their claims seem legitimate and they seem like a great fit for your job. What now?
Getting the contractor to your home and getting an estimate is a great way to start. You will be able to see right away if you will get along with this company by the way they treat you at the onset. If they promise you the moon, you'd better make sure they can deliver. Estimates that are too low or too high should be red flags.
If they promise you everything for very little it may mean they have no idea about actual costs, or it could mean they have cheap labour practices that could mean a shoddy job. Jobs that seem too high, likewise should be approached with caution too. What are you paying for, exactly? Calling around to check on their safety issues and whether they have had any code violations should be something that you have done before they show up, so if you ask them about it and they are not honest, you can decline their offer. Honest roofers will tell you about any problems they may have had and be up front about any discrepancies that you may have uncovered.
After you have interviewed several roofing companies you will probably have a gut feeling about which one to go with. Perhaps the timing is better with company Z or you get a good vibe from the representative from company X. Whatever you decide, get everything in writing before they start the job.
Choosing the right roofer for your job can be a bit of work, but the payoff is a fabulous new roof that will stand up to all the elements and do its job for you for years to come. A roof is something that is important to the integrity of your entire house, don't you owe it to yourself to pick the right contractor?
