Blogging Heros
Roof repairs must be completed promptly. Homeowners rarely have time to spend weeks or months calling different roofing companies to learn more about them. They must decide quickly to protect the home’s structural integrity and prevent further damage.
They worry about hiring a roofer from an ad or off the internet. Homeowners would like to know more about the people working around their houses. What steps should they take to make the process easier?
Understanding the Importance of Roof Repairs
Roofing issues require immediate attention to ensure the comfort and safety of the home’s occupants. Promptly repairing the roof safeguards the home’s resale value and structural integrity. However, roof repairs are often extremely expensive, and homeowners want to choose the right person or company. They know this is a task they cannot handle independently. It requires the help of professionals.
Narrowing the Options
When they need a roofer, people should turn to family and friends for referrals. Ask each person if they have a roofer they trust and what they like about that person or company. Learn whether the job was completed on time and within budget. Discuss whether there was anything they didn’t like about the company. Expand the search to local lumber yards and hardware stores. Employees at these locations get to know their customers and may be able to offer suggestions based on the work that needs to be done.
Choose three roofers from the list and contact them to set up a meeting. Verify the contact information when reaching out, and ask that they provide proof of their licensing and insurance. If a roofer refuses to provide this proof, remove them from the list. Hiring a contractor with the proper licensing and insurance leaves the homeowner at risk of being held liable if something goes wrong during the project. Check with the Better Business Bureau and Chamber of Commerce to learn whether there are complaints against the roofers on the list or if there are other red flags to be aware of.
In-Person Meetings
The homeowner should meet with each roofer to obtain quotes and learn more about the individual or company. Never accept a quote provided over the phone, as the price could increase when they visit the property. During the in-person meeting, discuss material options and the project’s scope. When speaking with the contractor, see if they are professional and knowledgeable. They should share options and allow the homeowner to decide which is best for their needs.
Written Contracts
Written contracts are essential when doing any work on a home. This contract should outline everything discussed during the face-to-face meeting. Look for a listing of the project scope, materials to be used, timeline, clean-up methods, and payment schedule. Ask the contractor to include their license number and insurance policy information on the contract so this information is readily available if there are problems with the job. Furthermore, ask the contractor to include a lien waiver. The lien will not become the homeowner’s responsibility if the roofer doesn’t pay a vendor for the materials.
Prioritize Quality
Homeowners should prioritize quality over price when having roof work done. Choose quality materials and a contractor dedicated to doing the job right. Paying more for quality work will provide peace of mind, which is priceless. Keep this in mind when choosing a roofer or any home improvement contractor.
Hiring a roofer shouldn’t be stressful. Homeowners who follow the steps outlined above find this process is simplified. Learn more today so you know precisely how to choose the right roofer when work needs to be done on your home.
