How to Choose a Qualified Roofing Contractor

Diligent, thorough research is essential when hiring a roofing contractor to ensure you get a qualified professional who will do the job right. A poorly installed roof can lead to costly repairs and damage to your home. Here are nine important things to consider and look out for when choosing a roofing contractor:

1. Local with Credentials

A reputable roofing contractor should be locally registered and easily accessible for questions. Only about 50% of roofers have a physical office these days, but there are still ways to ensure you’re working with someone worthy of your hard-earned money. Verify the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured in your state and locality by requesting documentation for licenses and insurance certificates.

Rules can vary by state, but home improvement contractors with an annual income of more than $5,000 must register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office and obtain a PA Home Improvement Contractor (PAHIC) number in Pennsylvania. You can check the contractor's license status and validity through the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Home Improvement Consumer Information database.

2. Multiple Quotes and References

Get at least three detailed written quotes from different contractors. Compare the prices, scope of work, materials to be used, and warranties offered. Ask each contractor for references from recent customers and call those references to inquire about their experience with the contractor's work quality, professionalism, and adherence to schedules and budgets. This information is crucial whether you need residential roof repair for your home or commercial roof repair for your business.

3. Experience and Specialization

When choosing a qualified roofing contractor, look for someone with extensive experience in the type of roofing project you need, whether it's a new roof installation, repair, or replacement. Ask how long they have been in business and how many projects of your type they have completed successfully. A contractor with a solid reputation and a history of successful projects is preferred, especially for storm damage roof repair.

4. Manufacturer Certifications and Warranties

Inquire if the contractor is certified by the manufacturers of the roofing materials they use. Manufacturer certifications often require contractors to undergo training and follow specific installation procedures to qualify for extended warranties on materials.

5. Written Contract and Permits

Insist on a detailed written contract that specifically outlines the project, materials to be used, start and completion dates, payment schedule, and warranties. The agreement should also explain how the contractor will protect your property during the project and address cleanup and disposal of debris. Ensure that the contractor will secure all required permits for the project, and follow-up on the status of required permits.

6. Payment Terms and Practices

Avoid contractors who require full payment upfront or employ high-pressure sales techniques. Standard practice is to charge a down payment of one-third of the total projected cost with subsequent payments tied to completed milestones is standard practice. Never pay in cash, and avoid contractors who offer discounts for cash payments, as this could be a sign of unethical or illegal business practices.

7. Online Reviews and Reputation

Review the contractor's online ratings and feedback on platforms such as the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, Google, and Angie's List. While a few negative reviews are not necessarily disqualifying, look for patterns of complaints about poor workmanship, missed deadlines, or unresponsiveness. A well-established roofing specialist with a solid reputation is preferable.

8. Communication and Professionalism

Pay attention to how the contractor communicates with you from the initial contact. A professional contractor should be responsive, courteous, and willing to answer all your questions thoroughly. They should also be able to explain the project details and materials in an easy, straightforward manner. Clear communication is one of the reasons why you should prioritize roof repair with a qualified contractor.

9. Workmanship and Cleanup Warranties

Reputable contractors should provide both a workmanship warranty (covering installation defects) and a manufacturer's warranty (covering material defects). Inquire about the duration and terms of these warranties and ensure they are included in the written contract. Also, verify that after the contractor completes the project, they will clean up and dispose of all debris and materials.

Roofing Contractor Red Flags

Awareness of potential red flags can help you avoid disreputable contractors and ensure that you hire a qualified, trustworthy roofing professional for your project.

Here are the top concerns to look out for when hiring professional roofing contractors:

• Requiring a large or full payment upfront 

• Offering an extremely low quote

• Lack of proper licensing and insurance

• High-pressure sales tactics

• Storm chasers or out-of-town contractors

• Lack of references or portfolio

• Requiring unusual contract terms

• Subcontracting the entire job

• Lack of manufacturer certifications

Wrapping Up

By considering these nine factors and doing your due diligence to recognize suspicious or unusual requests, you can increase your chances of hiring a qualified, reputable roofing contractor who will provide you with a high-quality, long-lasting roof installation or repair. 

Hiring North East Roofing Specialists ensures you get a team of experienced professionals dedicated to quality and customer satisfaction. With a solid reputation and comprehensive services, they handle everything from minor repairs to complete roof installations. Contact North East Roofing Specialists today for a free roof repair estimate and experience the peace of mind that comes with working with trusted experts.