The first step is finding a trustworthy contractor if you’re in the market for a new roof. Here are a few tips to make your search easier.
Before you select a roofing company, verify that they have workers’ comp and general liability insurance. They should also have a bonding company that backs them.
Get Recommendations
The best place to start your search for a quality roofing contractor is by asking friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. Word-of-mouth referrals are a valuable resource that can save you time and money. You can also learn much about a roofing contractor by reading online reviews. An excellent way to do this is to visit review sites such as Google, Facebook, and Yelp.
Look for various positive and negative comments about the company and its work. Also, pay attention to how the roofers respond to these comments. This can indicate how a roofing company like roofing services San Antonio will treat its customers once it begins working on their home or commercial property. In addition, ask for references and a detailed written estimate that includes the project’s scope, the materials needed, and the cost with no hidden fees. This will help you avoid unforeseen expenses and stress down the road.
Look for the BBB Seal
A BBB seal shows that a company has agreed to follow the BBB’s Standards for Trust, including a commitment to resolve consumer complaints. Businesses must meet specific requirements, undergo a thorough review process, and pay a fee to be accredited by the BBB.
If a roofing contractor has a BBB accreditation, look for it on their website and social media accounts. It is also a good idea to ask the company for a list of customer references and request both recent and older ones.
When choosing a roofing service, get a detailed written estimate describing the work, including the materials required and any additional charges. A reputable roofing contractor can provide you with this information immediately. They should also be able to show you proof of insurance coverage, which includes general liability and worker’s compensation. Ensure they have enough coverage to cover the total cost of any damage caused during the project.
Check the Contractor’s License
If you want to know if your roofing contractor is legitimate, ask them for their license number. Most states have licensing requirements that must be met to work in construction. A quality roofer will be more than happy to provide this information and will likely have a website that links to their state’s licensing site so you can verify they are legit.
You should also check online reviews and recommendation sites like NextDoor and Facebook. Be sure to review the ratings and reviews for positive and negative feedback, as not all recommendations are created equal.
Local references are also important as this will ensure they are familiar with your area’s unique climate, homeowners’ association restrictions, and perhaps even historic home requirements if applicable. Additionally, local hardware and supply stores likely regularly deal with many roofing contractors. This means they will have insight into who is easy to work with and who does good work.
Ask About Financing
Many roofing companies offer financing options through a third-party home improvement financing company. They may also be able to offer financing directly through their own financing company. These loans are typically tied to your credit history rather than the equity in your home.
If a roofer offers financing, be sure to ask about the terms and conditions of their lending program. This can include loan terms, interest rates, fees, prepayment penalties, and more. Many lenders will allow you to prequalify before you apply – which is usually free and does not affect your credit score.
Choosing a roofing contractor with an established presence in your area is essential. This ensures that they will be around five years from now if you ever need to contact them for any reason. It’s also a good idea to check with friends and neighbors to see if they have previously worked with a local roofing company.
