How to Choose the Right Roofing Company
You don’t want to be caught hiring the wrong roofing company, especially directly after a storm when you need a high-quality, hassle-free job the most. So, it’s essential to know what to look for in a roofing contractor. Here are a few tips for selecting a roofing contractor you can count on for excellent services.
See the Certification
It’s vital to your protection and theirs that you partner with an insured and licensed roofing contractor. For a company to work on your premises, they need workers’ compensation insurance. Otherwise, you can be held liable if an accident happens on your property. Avoid the headache by just asking to see the certification as soon as you can; this small amount of extra leg work is worth it in the long run.
Make Sure They’re Established
While you obviously want to hire a company that’s reputable for quality assurance purposes, there’s also another important reason you want someone who has lasted a long time doing business in your community. You want to not only get the most out of the roofing job but also the most out of the warranty in case something happens. Oftentimes people will hire a roofing company that ends up disappearing, making their five-year warranty on their roof completely useless. Don’t get caught in that mess; if something happens to your roof again after you just had it fixed, you want to ensure that the warranty will still be valid.
Communication is Key
Since your relationship with the roofing company will be built on trust and transparency, you need to choose the company that’s most likely to return your calls. In the short time you have dealt with this company, have they been eager to communicate? Did they follow up with you? If not, you might want to go with one that does. When you’re getting your roof fixed, you need to be communicating constantly with your roofing company so you can be on top of timelines and any issues that might occur.
Get a Referral or References
If you want to find the best roofing company near you, remember that the roofing industry is built on referrals. Someone you know probably has a roofer they like and would happily refer you. When researching a roofing company’s reputation, contact the Better Business Bureau and look up reviews online from past customers. Qualify these roofing company reviews by asking to see pictures of completed projects or ask for past customers you can talk with.
Check for Local Expertise
It's always wise to choose a local roofing company that has a strong presence in your community. Local companies are more likely to be familiar with regional building codes, weather conditions, and suppliers, making them well-suited to handle your roofing needs. Furthermore, local businesses rely on their reputation, so they are often more motivated to provide trusted roofing services to maintain a positive relationship with their clients.
Get Multiple Estimates
Before choosing a roofing contractor, it's smart to get estimates from several companies. Comparing estimates allows you to understand the market rate for your project and spot any unusually high or low bids. While it's tempting to go with the lowest price, be cautious of companies that significantly underbid. Lowball offers often come with compromises in materials or workmanship, leading to subpar results or future issues.
Ask the Right Questions
When meeting with a roofing company, asking the right questions can help you determine if they are the right fit for your project. Here are some questions to ask a roofing company:
- What is your process for handling insurance claims? – If you’re dealing with storm damage, you want a roofing contractor who can assist with the insurance process.
- What types of warranties do you offer? – A roofing company that stands behind their work will offer warranties that reflect their confidence in their products and services.
- Will you provide a written estimate? – A reliable roofing contractor will provide a detailed written estimate outlining the scope of work, materials, costs, and timeline. This prevents any misunderstandings or unexpected costs later in the process.
Trust Your Instincts
When it comes to choosing a roofing contractor, trust your instincts. If something feels off—whether it's a lack of roofing company qualifications, unclear pricing, or pushy sales tactics—it's worth considering other options. Your roof is a significant investment, and you deserve to feel confident in the company you hire.
Hiring a Roofing Professional
Follow our roofing company checklist to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck when searching for a new roofing contractor. If you see any of the warning signs listed above, then it’s probably time to start asking around for a different one.
For homeowners searching for a certified roofing company in the Chicago area, you can consider All Storm Solutions, Inc. Whether you need a roof replacement, repair, or a new installation, you can depend on our team for top-notch results. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation.
