A roof job in Florida is a big deal. Our harsh sub-tropical climate means roof systems experience greater wear and tear than other areas of the country. When it comes time to replace your roof, the contractor you choose is quite possibly the most important factor in determining quality and satisfaction. To help ensure you hire a high quality, trusted roofing contractor – this blog will discuss five important questions to ask your sales rep before you sign.
Five Questions to Ask Your Roofer Before You Sign:
Are you local? Where are your offices located?
A roof is not cheap. But the right contractor, materials, and warranty means homeowners won’t have to touch their roof for years to come. That is, “if” you can still find the contractor that completed the job. Beware of fly-by-night, or “storm chasing” roofers. Google the business. Make sure the company has a physical office within a reasonable drive of your home. Do not hire a company that knocks on your door or has an office out of a home. Check Google reviews to determine the reputation of the business. If you’re dealing with a “storm chaser,” the reviews will reflect it.
Do you provide a written estimate?
Reputable companies start with the sales process. They will not use high pressure sales tactics or force you to sign over your insurance rights. Trust your gut. If the written estimate provided by the contractor doesn’t feel right. It probably isn’t. Your estimate should be clear and detailed. It should lay out exactly what’s being done to your roof, and how much it costs. If you don’t understand any items or terms in the estimate, don’t be afraid to ask. If the contractor can’t build trust and rapport throughout the sales process, do not hire them to complete the job.
Do you provide a roofing warranty?
Almost as important as the contactor you choose is the warranty. Florida’s relentless weather simply destroys “any and all” building materials. Even small roof damage can lead to a myriad of issues throughout the rest of your home in the future. Ask you roofer to explain their warranties. As well as the claim process should you ever need to make one. As with the estimate this should be clear and easy to understand. Make sure you feel comfortable with the warranty and that it is written or listed in/on the contract you sign.
Can you provide any referrals?
Google reviews are a great place to start when hiring a roofing contractor in Florida. That said, we all understand that human nature tends to skew the results we find online. Ask you contractor for an actual reference. Most contractors will at least share written references from past clients, as well as pictures from recently completed jobs.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Last, but not least – confirm your contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured. Licensing ensures the company is deemed “able” to professionally complete your job. Insurance protects you as a homeowner, from damages or injuries that may occur on the job until completion. Though it is unlikely to get this far with an unlicensed contractor, ask your estimator to provide licensing information if it’s not listed on the documents you have already received.
If you need any roofing assistance, our professionals at Roof It Right are here to help. Contact us today for Florida’s preeminent roofing experience. Proudly serving Jacksonville, Gainesville, Daytona Beach, and surrounding areas. Still offering contactless or virtual appointments. Roof It Right so you can sleep at night.