5 Questions You Should Ask a Roofer Before Hiring
Your roof is among the most critical components of your home, protecting you and your family from the elements. When it comes time to replace or repair your roof, hiring a skilled and reliable roofer is crucial.
But with so many contractors offering services, how can you be sure you’re making the right choice? One way to do it right is by filtering them depending on your goals. Sometimes, all it takes is asking them the right questions.
Questions to Ask Potential Roofer
When interviewing a roofer, it’s important to ask a range of questions to gauge their experience and expertise. Here are five questions to ask before hiring them:
1. Are You Licensed And Insured?
A licensed roofer has the necessary qualifications and training to perform roofing work safely and effectively. They also have the required permits and approvals to work in your area.
Insurance is equally important because it protects you from liability if a roofer is injured while working on your property. Unfortunately, despite being a preventable problem, many roofers succumb to death after a fall. In 2020, 34.8% of construction deaths were due to falls.
Aside from worker’s compensation, don’t forget to ask about property insurance. You want to be protected in case of damage during the project. It’s highly unlikely that homeowners’ insurance will cover such damages. Plus, a license is proof of their knowledge and expertise. You can rest easy knowing your roofing contractor knows local building codes.
Always ask to see a roofer’s license and insurance certificate before hiring them. You want to err on the side of caution.
2. What Experience Do You Have With Different Roofing Materials?
Roofing materials come in various options, including asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and more. Each material has its own unique installation and maintenance requirements. Before hiring a roofer, ask about their experience working with different roofing materials. A roofer with experience with various materials is more likely to offer sound advice on which option is best for your property and install it correctly.
For example, All County Exteriors is reputable for their expertise in commercial and solar roofing works. You wouldn’t want your property to become a training ground for a roofer. It’s always advisable to work with the experts.
3. Can You Provide References Or Examples Of Previous Work?
One of the best ways to determine the quality of a roofer’s work is to ask for references. If you want to know the quality of their work, you’d like to see actual projects they’ve completed. Reputable roofers should be happy to provide you with references from past clients or show you pictures of completed projects.
Most contractors will present a portfolio of their completed and ongoing projects. Take your time to visit these places. While you can get an idea based on the pictures they show you, nothing beats seeing them with your own eyes.
4. What Is Your Timeline For Completing The Project?
Before hiring a roofer, discuss the timeline for completing the project. A good roofer will provide you with an estimated timeline for completion and keep you updated throughout the project. This will help you manage your expectations, especially if you’re looking at a schedule.
However, keep in mind that unexpected issues such as weather or hidden damage can delay the project, so it’s essential to be flexible.
5. What Is Your Warranty Or Guarantee For Your Work?
Finally, don’t forget to ask about a roofer’s warranty or guarantee for their work. A reputable roofer should offer a warranty that covers both materials and labor. The warranty should give you peace of mind that the roofer will address any issues arising after completing the project.
Key Takeaways
Hiring a roofer can be daunting, but by asking the right questions, you can ensure you’re working with a qualified and reputable professional. Roofing repairs are a huge investment. There’s nothing wrong with being careful and asking questions. After all, you would want to get your money’s worth.
Remember to ask your roofer the following before committing to them:
- Roofer’s license and insurance
- Experience with different roofing materials
- References or examples of previous work
- Timeline for completion
- Warranty or guarantee for their work