Having a new roof put on your home is a major investment. It will not only increase the value of your house but it will also help protect it from the elements while improving the aesthetic curb appeal!
How should you go about finding a roofing company? There are many to choose from in the Rochester area. Some are new to the scene and others, like Trinity, have been doing it for years.
Before you sign any sort of contract with a roofing contractor, be sure to consider each of these factors carefully:
#1 - References
Generally, the longer a company is in business, the more references they should have. Don't be afraid to ask for references from some of their customers.
#2 - Warranty
With so many different options and products on the market for roofing materials, find out which materials the contractor uses. What is the warranty offered either by the contractor or the manufacturer of the actual roofing shingles? Is it a limited warranty and if so, what are the restrictions? You can often find out more details about the warranties on the manufacturer's website.
#3 - Licenses & Credentials
If a potential contractor says they have a license, ask to see proof. A business license is necessary for tax purposes and has nothing to do with their qualifications as a roofer. State and local licenses will indicate whether the roofer you’re considering is qualified for commercial or residential projects and whether there are any limits on what work they can perform.
#4 - Reviews
In the modern era of the Internet, many customers will write reviews online. Check out the many sites that allow for candid third-party reviews from customers including Google, Angie's List and Yelp. What are the customers saying? Are the reviews and feedback primarily positive?
#5 - Better Business Bureau Ranking
Any legitimate roofing company will have a listing with the Better Business Bureau. Investigate their overall "score" as well as any major complaints or lawsuits against the company.
#6 - Insurance
Ask to view the potential contractor’s certificates of insurance. They should carry comprehensive liability insurance as well as worker’s compensation insurance and will happily forward verification to you. The legal name of the contractor may offer a clue about the level of insurance they carry.
Uninsured contractors are likely to be less expensive to hire because they are not incurring the high cost of insurance. But beware, if a worker is injured on your property, the property owner may be held liable for all associated costs unless his employer is insured through worker’s compensation. Although an uninsured or underinsured contractor may be less expensive to hire, ask yourself whether that is a risk you want to take.
Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com
