According to HomeAdvisor, it costs hundreds of dollars to repair a roof and around $7,500 to replace a roof outright. But while you may be tempted to try your hand at home repair, you’re better off hiring a pro.
With that said, there’s no reason why you should pay more than you have to, especially for shoddy workmanship.
These six things to ask when getting roofing quotes can help you save while ensuring you find the best person for the job.
1. What Types of Roofing Do You Work With
It’s a rookie mistake to assume that every contractor works in a similar specialty. On the contrary, the roofing industry is quite splintered, divided into areas such as residential and industrial.
And within those industries, things get even more niche. Some companies specialize in solar panels, for instance, while others work with corrugated metals like galvanized roof decking.
Just because a company fixes roofs doesn’t mean they’re the right fit for the job. Look into the company’s materials before committing to a purchasing decision.
2. Does Your Company Have Insurance?
Roofing can be dangerous work. In a matter of seconds, a roofer can fall or injure themselves in an accidental manner.
Should your roofing contractor not have proper insurance and licensing, you could be on the line legally.
One of the first questions to ask a roofer is whether they have proper insurance. Get details, too. Ask who they’re insured by and what their insurance covers.
3. May I See Your References?
A contractor is only as good as their work. And while a company may be more than happy to sign up for the job, there’s no guarantee you’ll get quality work until you’ve seen prior examples.
Always ask for a list of references and referrals. Seeing a contractor’s past work gives you an idea of the quality of their finished products.
4. Does Your Company Offer a Warranty?
Be it due to an act of nature or inefficient materials, sometimes things go wrong after your roof is repaired or installed. Signing with a company that offers a warranty means you won’t have to pay for your roof twice.
It’s always a good idea to get a warranty with your roof, especially if you live in an area prone to weather-related damage.
5. What Are My Financing Options?
Since roofing can be such a massive expense, it’s understandable that financing is a major concern. The good news is that most companies offer flexible financing options.
Ask if your contractor offers a payment plan so you can gradually repay for your roof instead of worrying about paying thousands of dollars at once.
Should your contractor offer financing, do be sure to inquire about interest, as well, as interest rates can add a few hundred dollars to the final cost.
6. Is Your Company Bonded?
We recommend that consumers work with bonded contractors.
If you’re unfamiliar, bonding ensures that a company is held responsible for their actions. So if they refuse to uphold their end of the contract or damage your home, bonding insurance protects you, the homeowner.
Six Things to Ask When Getting Roofing Quotes For Quality And Savings
Hiring a company to work on your roof is a big deal. These six things to ask when getting roofing quotes can help you feel better about your final choice.
If you’re looking for reputable roofers, be sure to check out our directory to find a company in your area.