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How to Compare Roofing Contractors

Published: 27/03/2010 by Patsy Hamilton for HomeImprovement411.ca

In most areas, there are dozens of roofing contractors to choose from. When it is time to replace or repair your roof, knowing how to compare the contractor’s qualifications can save you time and money. Here’s what to look for.

Licensing, Certifications and Insurance

In the US, licensing requirements vary from one state to the next. In California, for example, a contractor is not required to have a license to do jobs costing less than $600.

It is always important to ask if the contractor is licensed. There are roofers that work out of their trucks and communicate via cell phone.

While someone like that might be able to do the job, you are much better off hiring a company that has an office and a business license. Otherwise, you might not be able to contact them should something go wrong.

If you live in Canada, you should ask if the contractor’s laborers are covered by a WSIB certificate. Employees that are not covered by this kind of insurance could sue you in the event of an accident.

You should also ask about other types of insurance. What happens if someone accidentally breaks a window? Obviously, the roofing contractors should be responsible for any kind of damage that they do.

Experience

Experience is always important for anyone completing a home improvement project. But, it is particularly important when it comes to your roof. Leaks can damage the interior of your home. Shingles can fly off during storms if they are not installed properly. Find out how much experience the contractor has and ask for references.

Guarantees

All of the work should be guaranteed for a reasonable period of time. The guarantee should be in writing and you should receive a copy once the work is completed. Any warrantee that accompanies the materials should be provided as well.

Written Estimates

Professional roofing contractors are more than willing to provide written estimates. They will have a good idea of how long it will take to complete the work and what the total cost will be.

There should be an understanding about what happens in the event of cost overruns. There might be some things that are not visible during the inspection and estimation process. So, a job could cost more than was estimated. But, the estimate should be very close to the final cost.

Quality Materials

You should have a choice about the quality of the materials that are used to replace or repair your roof. Some roofing contractors cut corners by using cheap materials in order to put more profits in their pockets.

Compare Costs

It’s not a bad idea to get estimates from three or four different contractors. All of the estimates should be relatively close in price.

Be suspicious of any bid that is much lower than the others. The bid could be inaccurate or the contractor might be using inferior materials.

Another good way to compare roofing contractors is to read the reviews at HomeImprovement411.ca. Use the free service and post your job. Let the contractor come to you.

Patsy Hamilton is a home improvement journalist at HomeImprovement411.ca for more great useful home improvement articles please visit: http://www.homeimprovement411.ca.

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