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Did you know that the 2nd highest number of consumer complaints come from the home improvement and construction industry?
That's why it's more important than ever to do some quick research and check out a few details before hiring a roofer.
Here are 5 items to check off before signing up with a roofer!
1
Make sure the roofing contractor has a local business address
Whenever a major storm hits an area, "Storm Chasers" flood in from all over the country. They quickly set up shop and start knocking on doors.
The problem is that while these roofers may offer great benefits and warranties up front, chances are they'll be gone for good by the time you run into any issues with the installation. Not only that, but companies with a local presence and local reputation to protect are much more likely to take care of you if anything goes wrong than a company that will be gone within a few months.
If it's an established roofing business, you should be able to find a website and google listing easily with a local address.
2
Check reviews and length of time in business
Google reviews (both good and bad) are a great way to find out more about the business you're dealing with. But we recommend you take it one step further and look up the company on BBB.
The BBB (Better Business Bureau) website will tell you the years in business a company has (not to be confused with the "accredited since" portion.)
According to Roofing Insights, over 90% of roofing companies go out of business within the first 5 years. You don't want to be the one they fail on. This doesn't mean newer companies are always bad at what they do, it just means that going with a more established business is normally the safer option!
3
Licensed and insured
Make sure the roofer has applicable licenses in your state, along with liability insurance, and workers comp insurance. Liability insurance protects your home and property, while workers comp insurance protects the roofing contractor's business if one of their employees has an accident on the job.
Established and reputable roofing contractors will be able to present their license and insurance upon request.
4
Watch how they behave in the process
If your contractor shows up late to give you a bid, is generally bad at communicating, or you notice other red flags in the bidding process - it may be smart to look for other options. Chances are you'll experience more of the same after you hire them.
5
Don't pick the cheapest contractor
According to roofing insights, over 80% of consumer complaints for roofers are homeowners who went with the lowest bid they received. If one roofer is cheaper than everyone else, usually it means they're cutting corners that shouldn't be cut.
Failure to get the proper permits and using the cheapest materials may save a few dollars in the short term, but can cause big problems down the road.
