When it comes to roof replacement, most of us have no idea how that job, 20 feet above our heads, is going. It always feels a little scary hiring a roofing contractor if we can’t see the results up close. So we’ve listed the best questions you can first ask roofing contractors over the phone.
Always spend some time looking at online reviews for roofing companies (don’t neglect the results on pages 2 and 3 of your internet search, those companies shouldn’t be ignored) and ask keenly-eyed friends and family for referrals.
There are a few questions that you can ask before getting roofing estimates that will help narrow down the choices between roofing companies.
With scams prevalent in all industries, it’s good to never quickly settle for the best price and ask some crucial questions upfront.
Thank them for their answers, and decide which roofing contractors you’ll move forward with.
You can use the second set of questions before asking your chosen contractors for an estimate or a quote.
The best questions to ask roofing companies over the phone.
- Can you email a copy of your license, insurance, and workman compensation certificate?
- How long has the current owner been in charge of the business?
- Are they product-certified through any roofing shingle companies? Can you see the certifications?
- Who will be on hand during the installation?
- Can I visit a current job similar to my type of roof replacement?
Can you email a copy of your license, insurance, and workman compensation certificate?
- Always ask for emailed, valid copies of the roofing company’s liability insurance, workman’s compensation certificate, and contractor license.
- If the name on their license is different from their working name, ask for proof of explanation and search their business name.
- According to a quick online search, the amount of insurance the contractor should carry shows that $2 million is the recommended amount.
- Ask whether you’ll receive a written contract. The answer should be yes.
How long has the current owner been in charge of the business?
- Experience makes a big difference when expecting a professionally executed job. You should be able to confirm the date of acquiring the business license and the name.
Are they product-certified through any roofing shingle companies? Can you see the certifications?
- A roofing company proud of their quality trains its employees through paid training programs offered by major shingle manufacturers. Often, specific installation must be followed to ensure added warranty coverage, a bonus for homeowners.
Who will be on hand during the installation?
- If the owner isn’t there, a manager or a project manager trained by the owner should be there to ensure the roof is installed according to laws and the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- It is never acceptable to hear the roofers work without supervision.
Can I visit a current job similar to my type of roof replacement?
- A quick visit to a site will tell you how organized the worksite is.
- You may find other trucks with other business names, proving they subcontract work. A successful, reputable company will have loyal workers trained to their high standards.
- Ask for references from 3 recent clients.
Good communication is essential for a reputable business.
Are they happy to over-explain and assure you of their safe and professional process? Do they offer suggestions and ideas?
Here are a few questions that will provide you with a sense of the roofing company’s process:
- Will new flashings be used everywhere, or will some areas use existing flashings?
- Will the valleys have metal or weave the shingles?
- How do your workers cut their shingles?
- How will the eavestroughs and other aspects of the property be protected?
- How will the area be left at the end of each workday?
- What is the cost per sheet if new plywood must be used to replace soft roof decking?
An excellent reputation has the most value for any company. Call Forest City Roofing for a fair and thorough quote.
