When Should You Pay Your Roofer?

When it comes to tackling a roof repair or replacement project, it helps to be aware of the proper timing for paying the contractor you hired to get the job done. By understanding the terms of the contract prior to signing on the dotted line, you can be confident about when and how much to pay them. This blog post explains more.

Know the Payment Terms Before Signing the Contract

Before any work begins, a clear understanding of the payment terms laid out in your contract is imperative. A well-outlined agreement should specify milestones or phases at which payments are due. This ensures that you are not paying for services not rendered or materials not delivered. Always insist on a written contract that details the timing of payments—this is your safety net to avoid unwarranted financial risks.

The Deposit: A Commitment to Service

A reputable roofing company in the local area will often request a deposit before starting work. This is a standard industry practice to secure your spot on their schedule and for them to cover initial material costs. However, this deposit shouldn’t significantly dent your wallet—it’s common for it not to exceed one-third of the total project cost. Remember, you’re not just paying for security but also establishing trust, which is an essential component of any home improvement project.

Progress Payments: Rewarding Milestones

For larger projects, some roofers may agree to progress payments. This means payments are released as certain parts of the job are completed—such as upon completion of the tear-off, installation of the underlayment, and final installation.. Each payment verifies a job segment done well and maintains financial equilibrium between you and the contractor.

Beware of Full Upfront Payments

A crucial red flag to be aware of is the request for full payment upfront, especially in cash. This is highly irregular and is advised against by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Paying the complete cost before any work starts leaves you vulnerable if the contractor fails to meet the expected standards. Always hang on to the final installment until every aspect of the job meets your satisfaction and complies with the standards set within the contract.

Completing the Payment: Ensuring Satisfaction

Once the job is done, a final inspection should be conducted to ensure all work has been finished to your satisfaction and in line with what was agreed upon in the contract. This is when the final payment is due. By withholding this last portion of the payment until the end, you incentivize the contractor to ensure all is completed properly, giving you leverage to have any necessary corrections made before the project is signed off.

Choosing a Secure Payment Method

When settling payments for your roofing project, always choose secure payment options like checks or credit cards. These methods provide a record of all transactions, which is pivotal if any disputes arise. Paying with cash is ill-advised as it’s harder to track and doesn’t offer the same level of protection.

At The Badger Company, we ensure transparency and quality. Whatever your roofing needs are, you can rest easy knowing that every detail is ironed out, including making sure that the timing for payments are clear from the get-go and that your investment is protected throughout the roofing process. Call us at (608) 850-6282, or fill out our contact form to book a consultation.