Roofing contractors should always be willing to provide you with a detailed scope of work for your roof repair or replacement project. They should also be able to provide you with multiple roofing material options and prices, and give you a clear idea of the timeline for the job.
Quality local roofers know your community like the back of their hand and will glide through a project without the problems that can trip up national contractors. They will offer free roofing inspections and manufacture covered warranties.
1. Ask for Recommendations
When looking for a local roofing contractor, ask for recommendations from people you trust. It’s a great way to find a reputable company that will provide you with quality work and exceptional customer service.
When asking for recommendations, make sure that the roofing contractors have references from previous clients that you can contact. You can also ask for testimonials from satisfied customers on their website.
This question can help you spot unethical or inexperienced roofers who are only out to scam homeowners. A good contractor will be more than happy to provide you with references and testimonials that can validate their claim of being a legitimate roofing contractor. If a roofer is unwilling to do this, they may be a fly-by-night operation that will steal your money and leave you with an unfinished roof.
2. Look at Their Work
While it may be tempting to hire a roofing contractor who gives you the best quote, make sure you take a closer look at their work. If you can, visit a job site before hiring a contractor to see their workmanship and the quality of materials they use.
This will also give you a better idea of their timeline and whether they can meet your needs. If you have any questions, reach out to them and see how quickly they respond. This will help you find a roofing contractor who is open to communication and willing to meet your expectations. You’ll also be supporting your local community by choosing a local roofing contractor.
3. Ask for Estimates
When you’re evaluating potential local roofing contractors, it’s important to ask for price estimates. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs down the road. A good roofer will be happy to discuss their estimate with you and walk you through each line item.
This question also helps weed out unethical contractors who “race to the bottom” based on price alone. These businesses usually fail to make a profit, and then you end up paying for their mistakes.
Also, ask your local roofing contractor about their timeline. This will help you prepare for your project and ensure it’s completed on time. It’s especially important to hire a local roofing contractor who can respond quickly. They’ll be able to minimize damage and get the job done faster.
4. Check Their Licenses
Once you’ve narrowed your search down to a few contractors, it’s important to check their legitimacy. Look on the NRCA website to verify if they are licensed, bonded and insured in your state. It’s also wise to avoid any contractor who requires large upfront payments. Instead, try to find a contractor who will only require a 10% deposit so they can order materials and schedule your roof repair or installation.
Local roofing contractors know what local installation codes are, where to get the necessary paperwork and will be familiar with your area’s weather extremes. They will also be able to respond quickly if something goes wrong with your roof. This can save you a lot of money in the long run. You’ll also be supporting the local economy when you work with a local roofing contractor.
5. Check Their Reputation
When looking at a local roofing contractor’s website, be sure to check out their reviews and ratings from past customers. You can also check out the contractor’s reputation on social media sites such as Facebook and NextDoor.
Local roofers have a reputation to protect and can be more likely to offer high-quality workmanship and customer service. They are familiar with local rules and regulations, including building codes, permitting requirements and insurance requirements. They can often provide more detailed information and specific suggestions for the best roofing materials and solutions for your home’s unique needs.
Local roofers are also more likely to be around in the future if you have any issues with your new roof or require additional repairs. This is one of the biggest advantages to choosing a local roofer over an out-of-state company.
