If you always forget to have your roof routinely inspected, serviced or repaired and operate under the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ logic, then you’ve likely missed the way your roof has deteriorated over the years. Don’t wait until your entire roof collapses over your head and you find yourself needing the services of a roofer. By then, it’ll be too late. Make sure you have your roof serviced regularly. Don’t know how to find roofing contractors? There are a few handy questions from House Logic to keep in mind when it comes to dealing with roofers.
What to Ask
1. How much is the cost for everything you’ll need to get the job done? Your contractor should provide you with an itemized bid that lists down all of that—from the demolition and hauling trash to how much the electrical work or drywall and painting would cost.
2. Is the bid an estimate or fixed? With estimates, you might end up with a bigger bill. Ask for a fixed price bid instead.
3. How long have you worked in this business? The longer your roofer’s experience is, the better. That generally means better skills and contacts.
4. Can you tell me who your main suppliers are? Talk to these suppliers to find out about your roofer’s reputation in the business.
5. Can I meet the team? By asking if you could meet the team that’s going to work on your home, you can see if they’re doing a good job or not and if they’re the kind of people you want for the job.
6. Can the new roof be installed over the existing roof? If your roofer says yes, find another one. Good roofers know this is bad practice.
7. What do you plan to do? Ask about your roofer’s step-by-step plans. If he doesn’t seem to know what he’s doing, that’s your cue to find someone more qualified.
8. Are you insured? They should be, so you don’t end up with liability costs.
9. Do you have a license? Make sure you find out first thing.
10. Are you going to get the municipal permits? Your roofer should know how to take care of these details.
In Conclusion
It won’t hurt to remember this list. At the very least, it’ll help you figure out if you’re working with the right person or not. That’s the first step to getting your roofing project off to a great start.
