Finding and working with the right roofing contractor can make roofing replacement – a challenging project to undertake even for experienced homeowners – easier to manage. Today, we share some tips on how to find the right roofing contractor.
Stick With Local Contractors
There are many benefits to hiring a hiring contractor from the local community. They’re more knowledgeable with local building codes, they can be counted on during roofing emergencies, and you can rest assured that you won’t get scammed by unscrupulous individuals.
Ask for a Copy of Their Insurance Certificate
An insurance certificate is proof of a contractor’s insurance coverage. The extent of coverage may vary between insurance providers, but you need to make sure it includes general liability insurance (for accidental property damage) and workers’ compensation (or workers’ comp for worksite injuries).
Look for Manufacturer Designations
A manufacturer-designated roofer is authorized by one or more roofing manufacturers to sell and install their products and process warranties, and receives continuous training and certification from the manufacturer. Obtaining these designations requires passing stringent requirements, and not many contractors qualify. The Badger Company is designated as a GAF Master Elite® contractor, which places us among the top 3% of all roofing contractors in the country.
Ask for References
Previous customers are the best people to ask about a particular roofing contractor’s service. As the saying goes, “the proof is in the pudding” or, in this case, the roofing. Ask a prospective contractor for at least three local references, and make time to call them and ask about the roofer’s service: how the company handled the installation, if the crew was punctual and about the quality of the final roofing product. This will probably be the most time-consuming part of your search, but it’s also the most helpful.
Review the Estimates
A common mistake among homeowners is overlooking all the criteria and choosing their contractor based on the estimated cost alone. Don’t make this mistake, and make sure you’ve reviewed the estimates, particularly the list of materials, cost breakdowns and warranty coverage. You should also be given ample time to review these estimates. If you feel that contractors are pressuring you to sign – ”sign now before the price goes up” is a common pressure tactic – then they’re more concerned with getting your money and not with providing quality service.
The Badger Company is your leading provider of residential roofing systems and gutters. Give us a call at (608) 413-3627. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.