STOP! DO YOUR HOMEWORK BEFORE HIRING A ROOFER

 

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Nothing is more scary and stressful to a homeowner than having roof problems.  There is nothing like witnessing the rainwater dripping into your home damaging your valuables.  At that moment you know it is time to call a roofing contractor.

You’d think hiring an honest, competent local roofing contractor would be easy.  But surprisingly it is a difficult task to find a roofer that is good at what he does, and is honest.  Before you hire a Monterey County Roofing Contractor to repair or replace your roof make sure you ask them these questions.  Otherwise, you might find yourself paying higher prices for the incompetence of an unlicensed or unqualified roofing contractor.

Do You Have Liability Coverage, Current License And Workers’ Comp. Insurance?
The answers to all three of these questions need to be “yes” without hesitation. As a follow up, ask them to provide you with a copy of each of these documents.   If the roofer cannot produce them, then look for another roofer.
Can I Have A List Of References?
It is crucial that you follow up on the roofer by checking his references, both previous clients and professional affiliations. If the roofer does not provide you with a list, or refuses to do so, look for someone else.
Do You Provide a Written Estimate?                                                                                             
Setting into a contract without a detailed estimate can cause problems in the long run.  Be sure, before signing a contract, you have a detailed estimate for the project.  Include the cost of removing the old roof, adding the new roof, and anything that could come up in the process.
How Much Is The Deposit On Repairs?
You will need to know how much up-front money the roofer requires before beginning the repairs, both for your own budget and to ensure that there is good faith money on the table. Never pay for the entire cost before work begins.
What Is The Approximate Time Frame For The Repairs?
It is always important to ask the roofer how long the repairs will take in order for the roofer to commit to an articulated deadline for the project’s completion.
What Do I Need To Do To Prepare Before The Work Begins?
This is an important step that many people often overlook. The homeowner needs to be prepared before the work actually begins.  This can help you save time and money by allowing the roofer to get started right away when they show up for work on the first day.
What is the Exact Type of Roofing System That Will Be Installed?                             
 The contractor should explain in detail the products proposed for the roof.
What Are The Details of the Warranty?                                                                                      
Is the warranty a manufacturer’s warranty or a contractor’s warranty?   The contractor should provide at least two years on workmanship.  For the manufacturer’s warranty, ask if it covers both materials and workmanship or is it a materials-only warranty.

Of all the questions the homeowner can ask during an interview, the most important question is one you must ask yourself:  Do I feel comfortable with and trust the person I am about to hire?  Your answer to that question should make the hiring decision much easier.

Once all the details of the roof repair or installation have been determined, it will be easier to compare all the proposals.  Make sure the contractors’ prices are based on the same scope of work.  And when the bids come in, be sure that you read the entire proposal carefully.

The experts at Premo Roofing Company in Salinas are here to help you every step of the way with your roofing project.  Click to get a free estimate.

 

Premo Roofing