Choosing a Residential Contractor

Purchasing a new roof system is an important investment. Before you spend your money, spend time learning how to evaluate roofing contractors. You should insist on working with a professional roofing contractor. Capitol Roofing wants to assist you in getting the kind of results you expect – a quality roof system at a fair price. All roofing contractors are not alike, and Capitol Roofing recommends that you prequalify roofing contractors to get the job done right the first time. All professional roofing contractors, such as Capital Roofing, should be able to provide you with the following:

A permanent place of business – Confirm that your contractor is well-established with a permanent address, telephone number, tax identification number, and a business license (where required). A professional has these readily available.

Knowledge of roof systems – The introduction of new roofing materials and application techniques has sparked a tremendous change in the roofing industry over the past 10 years. A professional roofing contractor is familiar with the different types of roof systems and will help you make the best decision for your building and budget. Be sure you are comfortable with the roof system(s) your contractor suggests.

Affiliated with an industry organization – Ask the contractor if his company is a member of a local, state, regional, or national industry association. Involvement in a professional organization tends to keep a contractor better informed about the latest developments and issues in the industry.

Committed to education – Choose a company that is committed to the safety and education of its workers. Ask the contractor what types of safety training he provides for his workers and what industry programs the workers have attended. The best roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who install the roof system. Insist on having trained, experienced roof mechanics.

Insured and committed to safety – Don't hesitate to ask the roofing contractor for proof of insurance. In fact, insist on seeing copies of insurance certificates that verify workers' compensation and general liability coverages. Make sure the coverages are in effect through the duration of your job. If a contractor is not properly insured, you, the owner, may be liable for accidents that occur on the property. Many building owners and homeowners have been dragged into litigation involving uninsured roofing contractors. (Note: U.S. workers' compensation laws vary by state. Consult your state's laws to determine workers' compensation insurance requirements.)

Licensed and bonded – Many states require that roofing contractors be licensed; some states have specific licensing requirements. In addition, some contractors are able to obtain bonding from surety companies, while others are not. Check to see if a prospective roofing contractor is properly licensed and/or bonded. Your state's Department of Professional Regulation or Licensing Board will have this information.

Financial stability – Make sure the contractor is financially stable. A professional roofing contractor can provide current financial information about his company.

Application expertise – Have your contractor list the roofing manufacturers with which his firm has licensed or approved applicator agreements. Some materials require special application expertise to provide a quality roof system that will last.

Insist on a written proposal – Insist on a written proposal and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications. Be sure the proposal includes the approximate starting and completion dates, payment procedures, and any additional issues such as landscape damage prevention and debris cleanup.

Keep a healthy skepticism about the lowest bid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many fly-by-night contractors' below-cost bids seem attractive, but these contractors often are uninsured and perform substandard work. Remember, price is only one of the criteria for selecting a roofing contractor. Professionalism, experience and quality workmanship also should weigh heavily in your decision.

Warranties – There are two basic categories of roofing warranties: the contractor's warranty, which covers workmanship, and the manufacturer's warranty, which covers (as a minimum) materials. Be sure that your contractor offers a warranty that covers workmanship. A manufacturer's warranty alone will not protect you if the roof is improperly installed. Carefully read and understand any roofing warranty offered and watch for provisions that would void it.

Completed projects – Look for a company with a proven track record that readily offers client references and a list of completed projects.

References – When making the final selection, ask the roofing contractor for a list of recent clients. Check with these customers to see if they were completely satisfied with the quality of materials and workmanship provided. You also may contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to find out if they have received any customer complaints about the contractor.

Provisions for on-site supervision – Have the contractor explain his project supervision and quality control procedures. Request the name of the person who will be in charge, how many workers will be required and the estimated time of completion.