Here’s How to Narrow Down Your List of Roofers
Choosing a roofing contractor for a storm damage repair can be a daunting task. However, with a little due diligence you can rest assured that you’re selecting the right company for the job. Not sure where to begin? Follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision.
Ask Friends and Family for Referrals
Chances are, you know someone who has recently hired a roofing contractor for a storm damage repair or roof replacement. Ask them who they used and if they were happy with their work. Word-of-mouth is one of the best ways to find a reputable roofing contractor. It’s also a great way to learn about which ones to avoid. These testimonials provide an accurate picture of what you can expect as you can typically count on personal contacts to give you honest feedback.
Online and local reviews are also helpful. Look for 5-star Google ratings, BBB accreditation, and positive Yelp and Facebook reviews. Consult your local chamber of commerce and the Better Business Bureau to be certain there are no red flags.
Check Licensing and Insurance Requirements
You will want to confirm the roofing contractor you choose is licensed and insured—and more specifically, licensed, bonded, and insured in your state.
All states have different licensing and insurance requirements for roofing contractors. To ensure your contractor has all three, don’t be afraid to ask for proof. These three accreditations are in place to protect you and ensure the job is done right.
All contractors should be fully insured with general liability, workman’s comp, and a company vehicle insurance policy. General liability insurance and workman’s comp limits depend on the size of the contractor’s jobs and the state they’re in. If they’re mainly doing residential work, their general liability will not be as much as a company that does larger commercial jobs.
If a roofing company doesn’t have these protections in place, you will be on your own if something goes wrong.
Work with an Established Local Roofing Company
When looking for roofing contractors to hire, it’s important to pick an established local roofing company with a long history in the community.
Local companies know the weather and climate conditions your roof will need to withstand and are familiar with local codes and state requirements. Plus, those that have been around for years are more likely to fulfill any warranty requirements should something go wrong.
Look for roofing companies with physical office locations in your area and a local phone number. This ensures you know where to find them if you ever have a problem with your roof.
Be aware that some out of state companies come in after a big storm. These ‘storm chasers’ undercut local roofing company prices, get the money, and move on to the next storm-hit town. These companies often do not care about local codes or if they properly install your roof. On the other hand, a quality local roofing company will ensure your roof is correctly installed and up to code.
Review Multiple Bids
Talk to several roofing companies to get an idea of how much your roof replacement or repair should cost. Choose a contractor who is patient while you review contracts and warranties. The good ones will be more than happy to answer questions to ensure you feel comfortable working together.
Remember that price isn’t everything, and often, ultra-low costs equate to low quality. If you receive a bid that seems too good to be true, check that the company has adequate insurance and credentials.
The most important component to consider is your level of confidence in a roofer’s ability to do an outstanding job. If you’re impressed by a company that isn’t the cheapest, ask yourself, how much is peace of mind worth to me? For many property owners, it’s worth paying a bit more.
Don’t Choose Solely on Price
While it can be tempting, simply going with the lowest bid is not a good idea. Investing in a new roof or a major storm damage repair is a purchase that should not be made in haste. Instead consider the long term cost and select a contractor that will complete the job right the first time and be there down the road to warranty their work.
If a contractor has a reputation for delivering excellent work and quality customer service, you can typically rest assured that you will have a positive experience. When comparing bids consider more than just the total cost. If they have been in business for over 15 years, you can expect them to have a lot of experience and provide trusted service. Here at Action Roofing we have been proudly serving our community since 2005.
Ask About Materials
It goes without saying that using quality materials will play a major factor in the final outcome of your project. Be sure and ask what type of materials each roofing contractor works with and if they are able to offer manufacturer warranties. At Action Roofing we are proud to offer the GAF limited lifetime warranty, in addition to our own 5-year workmanship warranty.
Consider the Customer Experience
Lastly, consider your rapport with the contractor. During the estimating process, how was your comfort level with the contractor’s professionalism and roofing expertise? Were they enthusiastic, knowledgeable and professional in demeanor? These factors play a large role in the overall project and your ultimate satisfaction.
The roofing contractor you hire has a huge impact on every aspect of your project, be it a storm damage repair or a roof inspection. No matter if you need roof repairs or a full roof replacement, the contractor impacts the cost, the quality of the work, and the final outcome. That’s why it’s crucial to find the right roofer for your needs. By walking through each of the above criteria, you can rest assured that you’re choosing the right contractor for the job.
Schedule Your Free Inspection Today!
If you’re looking for quality, professional roofing services in Austin and the Central Texas area, contact the experts here at Action Roofing. We have been proudly offering roofing solutions for three generations, during which time we’ve earned a reputation as one of Austin’s most trusted contractors. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and discover the Action Rooing difference!
