When you need a roof replacement or repair, you want to hire the right company. That should mean you want someone who is experienced, well respected, insured and a local roofer. If you hire the wrong roofing company, you could end up wasting time, money or worse, ending up with a roof that doesn’t protect your home or business. Here are some tips to help you find the right local roofer.
Do Your Homework
That means before you even call a company for an estimate that you research their reputation, history, services and service area. You can find out about what people think about them on many websites through reviews. A quick search with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) will tell you how long they’ve been in business and if there are complaints against them. Don’t hire someone who claims to be a local roofer who doesn’t have a local address and lists roofing on their website as a primary service. That means you want to see them talking about the type of roofing you have and not just a mention that says “we do roofing too.” If that’s what you see, chances are good that means they outsource their roofing services.
Treat the Initial Meeting Like a Job Interview
When you’re the boss, you want an employee who will listen, answer you honestly and show up on time. Call at least three different companies. Pay attention to when they say they will arrive and when they really do show up. Ask questions and see how comfortable you feel with them servicing your needs.
Review the Proposal Before Signing
If they don’t provide a written proposal, don’t hire them. Their written proposal should include the following. If it doesn’t, and you really do like them, ask for it. If they refuse to provide any of the items, consider another local roofer.
- Service details – Things like total tear off or roof overlay for replacements, new flashing, underlayment, gutter services. Whatever they include should be detailed in writing. Don’t assume because they mentioned it in your initial conversation that it’s included.
- Product details – This means brand, color and style of your new shingles. It should also include type of underlayment.
- Workmanship warranty – Not all companies include a workmanship warranty or guarantee but if yours does, you need to have it in writing.
- Licensed and insurance information – Although not all jobs require a licensed, if yours does, that information should be included so you can verify that their license is in good standing. You also want to call their insurance company and verify they currently have coverage.
Hiring a local roofer doesn’t have to be stressful. Just call Cooley Roofing and Construction. We’re a local roofer based in Clemmons serving the greater Winston-Salem area and surrounding communities. Call us today at 366-766-6488 or fill out our contact form.
