Is the Company Licensed?

Make sure the contractor is licensed and registered with the state. Don’t be afraid to ask for a copy.

Is the Company Insured?

Get a copy of the General Liability and workers compensation insurance for the company. This protects you from any property damage or injury that occurs on the job site.

Does the Company use Safety Equipment?

Federal Law requires workers to use safety equipment. Make sure they follow OSHA Guidelines.

Does the Company provide Written Estimates or Exact Pricing?

A written estimate is a guess that can lead to added in pricing. Make sure to get an exact price. Be wary of companies who quote you without coming to you property, some companies will give you exact figures off Google Earth. That is okay for a preliminary price but the only way to know the exact cost is to get a tape measure on the roof. Also be wary of companies who are willing to give discounts without negotiating the work done or giving sound reasoning. If they say “We can knock off $5000 if you sign today,” run! If they’re not doing any less work for a discount how is that company saving the money?

Who is the Salesman?

Does the company hire in home salesman who works on commission or is he a full time employee? Does he have any experience on a roof? Does he really know what he’s talking about or is he just a talking brochure?

Permits

Make sure the company will be responsible for acquiring any necessary permits.

Does the Company have an Office or Show Room?

Make sure the contractor has a physical location and isn’t doing business from their kitchen able. If they cannot afford to rent a facility how are they going to afford to replace or repair your roof if anything goes wrong?

Ask for References

Customer references, bank references, or supplier references should all be available if your ask for them

Are the Installers Employees or Sub Contractors?

Does the company have a trained in house crew that does the work or do they subcontract to the lowest bidder. Ask to visit a job site or check the trucks and equipment for company names and logos.

Does the Company use Permanent Materials?

Make sure the contractor is using appropriate materials. Don’t be afraid to ask them about the following:

• Ice & Water Shield – premium non granulated ice and water shield should be used from all eave edges

• Woven Synthetic Underlayment – Woven synthetic underpayments should be installed with plastic cap nails not staples.

• Interlocking starters and finishers

• Open Valleys – Open valleys that are self cleaning should be used. Closed valleys allow ice to freeze around

• Ridge Vent

• Premium Sealants

• Hidden Fasteners – Make sure they use hidden fasteners. Unnecessary panel penetrations will cause the roof system to fail.

What is the Companies Reputation?

Check online for bad reviews. Do they have Better Business Bureau complaints.

Does the Company offer Warranties?

Does the company offer any workmanship warranty? Is there any warranty on the materials?

We recommend following these guidelines for any project you have done on your home. It may take a little work on your part but it can save you a lot of future headaches!