One of the best ways to ensure the most reliable and efficient service from a roofing contractor is to check out his or her credentials. Here are some of the top tips for making your first selections – especially when you’re new to the area:
Shop Around – while this may seem like a time consuming process, it’s usually a lot easier once you go online. You can request several quotes from varied companies at once, as well as peruse varied websites regarding prices and services that are offered by each. The website should furthermore depict the number of years the roofer has been in business, what customers are saying through website tutorials and much more.
Why is it so important to check the above factors when choosing a roofer? Simple. You’re planning to spend thousands on roof repairs, and even if you’re attaining this budget from an insurance provider, chances are you’ll want it to last. The home owners insurance only does so much repairs within a certain timeframe. If you mess up, you’re taking a chance of paying out of pocket. If you’d had to take out a loan or pay out of pocket from the get go, you have to consider interest rates on the home repair loan. Consumer affairs reveals that even for simple purchases that are less than $100, customers tend to do their due diligent research on the products or service provider in order to ensure quality.
This is why many review sites are popular nowadays. Sites like Angie’s List for instance, or Service Magic, are the go-to sites for many consumers. However, customers can do their own research without going through these third parties. As an example:
The background and licensing check can be conducted on state websites for free. All you need is the roofing company’s licensing number, and records of the year the business was established will be revealed. Furthermore, if there are any previous customer complaints or suspension of this licensing due to misconduct, there will usually be records for the public to see. This is why the best roofers will ensure customer satisfaction. By doing so, they can ensure there’s repeat business and protect their reputation for new and prospective customers on the line.
Other tips when choosing a roofer include:
Checking for permits and insurance – in the event of an accident to workers, you will want to ensure you’re not liable as the homeowner. This brings us to the next point which would be the contract. The contract outlines the total terms of the project, regarding how long it will take to complete. Furthermore, it will outline the total cost, and the breakdown of payments, whether there’s a down payment or the full cost paid at the initial or end stages. Ensure that a signed contract with the company’s letterhead is in order.
By covering these considerations, you can protect yourself against a significant loss, plus ensure you have a solid roof over your head for years to come.
