Questions to Ask Roofer References

The success of your roof replacement largely depends on your contractor. Researching goes a long way in finding a reliable company for your project. Before hiring, check credentials, look at portfolios and read reviews. Another thing that will help is to ask your prospective roofers for references. 

Here are key questions to ask contractor references.

Why Talk to Roofer References?

You can get a clearer picture of what it is like to work with your prospective contractors by speaking to references. It will also allow you to get more information about your potential roofers. For instance, you can ask their previous clients about their work habits and the quality of their output. 

Experts recommend reaching out to at least three references. Talking to them can help determine if a roofer is reliable and trustworthy. Did the roofing contractor obtain the necessary permits before the actual work started? Were there problems with the payment? You can also ask about the issues they faced during their projects and what the roofer did to resolve them. 

What Should You Ask Them?

Is the Contractor Licensed and Insured?

You should only hire licensed and insured professionals to replace your roof. Doing so will protect you in case something wrong happens during your project. For instance, if a worker accidentally causes damage to a part of your property, the contractor’s insurance will cover the necessary repairs. 

What Is Their Reputation in the Community?

When talking to the references, you can get a good sense of the roofer’s reputation in the community. How did they interact with clients? Were they polite and professional? Were the clients happy with the outcome of their work?  

How Often Do They Complete Jobs for You?

If a roofing contractor has worked with a client multiple times, it could indicate good service and quality work. It could be particularly reassuring if you are looking for professionals to handle a complex job. 

How Do They Handle Conflicts?

Unexpected things can happen in any home improvement project. Ask the references about conflicts they encountered while working with the contractor. How did the roofer handle the problem? Were they satisfied with the resolution? A reliable professional is always ready for obstacles that may come along the way. 

Are They Familiar With Local Regulations?

Building codes and regulations vary by location. You can count on an experienced local contractor to be knowledgeable about them. They would also know if permits are necessary for your roof replacement project. 

What Type of Materials Did They Use?

You want to work with a contractor that specializes in the kind of roof you have. The lifespan and efficiency of your roof significantly depend on the quality of materials your installer will use. It helps to ask past clients of your prospective roofer about the materials used in their projects. 

What Warranties Do They Offer?

Roofing is a major investment, so you want it to stay protected for years. Warranties say a lot about a contractor’s products and services. A roofer who’s confident about their skills and the materials they use will not hesitate to provide long-lasting warranties. 

Did They Handle the Cleanup?

After the project, did the roofer tidy up the site and dispose of refuse materials? You want to know if the contractor handled the cleanup because some companies do not offer this service. Ideally, you should hire a roofer who takes care of the post-work cleanup. 

A good roofer will perform the necessary measures to protect the rest of your home during construction. They might cover your yard with tarps and have a dumpster ready for used materials. Workers might also use a magnet or metal detector to ensure there are no leftover nails around your property that could hurt your family and pets. 

Would You Recommend Them for My Project?

Finally, ask the references if they would hire the contractor again. If they were happy with the quality of the roofer’s work, they would likely recommend them for your project. Sometimes, a client refuses to work with a contractor again regardless of how well they do their job. If this is the case, ask the reference why. It could be an issue with the price and not the workmanship quality. 

More Tips on Finding the Right Roofer

Obtain Multiple Estimates

Getting at least three estimates from different companies will help you find the ideal contractor for your roof repair and replacement needs. When comparing quotes, price is not the only factor you should consider. The contractor’s experience and the manufacturers they work with also matter. 

It is often not a good idea to go with the contractor with the lowest bid. The low upfront cost could be because they cut corners on materials or they do not have a lot of experience. Your roof plays a primary role in your home’s safety, comfort and protection against the elements. It pays to invest in the best quality materials within your budget and a skilled contractor for your project.

Consider Communication Skills

Good communication is key to successful home improvements. A reliable contractor will have no problems answering questions you have about your roofing project. They will respond to your queries promptly. You can also easily reach them if you encounter issues during or after the construction. If you find it challenging to communicate with a roofer, think twice about hiring them. 

Choose a Local Roofing Company

It is always better to choose local contractors for your home improvements. Roofers from your area have likely worked with a friend, family or colleague. It means you get to see the meticulousness of their work and talk to their previous clients in person. Moreover, local contractors put time and effort into their work to maintain a solid reputation. 

Let Shine Construction Inc. take care of your roofing and exterior needs. You can always count on us for superior roof repair and replacement services. Our experienced team also installs high-quality gutters, windows, doors and siding. Call us at (508) 278-3300 or complete our online form for a free estimate.