So, what are these crucial questions to ask a roofing contractor? As passionate educators in the roofing industry, we will provide you with the top questions and the answers you should be looking for.

By reading further, you will discover why it is important to ask if the contractor is local, how they safeguard your property, what kind of workmanship warranty they offer, and more. Once you have familiarized yourself with these questions, you will have a comprehensive checklist of all the questions you need to ask a roofing contractor.

Do You Possess The Necessary Licenses, Bonds, And Insurance?

Ensure the first question you ask a roofing contractor is whether they possess the essential licenses, bonds, and insurance.

Licensed

Obtaining a contractor's license is as simple as registering with the state's board of licensing contractors. The type of license required will depend on the price of the job.

Bonded

Being bonded means that a bonding company recognizes a contractor's adherence to proper and ethical business practices. A bond provides assurance that if a company ceases operation midway through a project or fails to address any issues with the work; the customer can turn to the bond company for support.

Insured

To ensure safety and protection, it is essential that all contractors have comprehensive insurance coverage. This includes general liability, workman's compensation, and insurance for both owned and unbowed company vehicles.

When hiring a roofing contractor, don't hesitate to request physical copies of their permits, licenses, and insurance. A reputable contractor will gladly provide you with these documents as proof of their professionalism.

It's important to note that the requirements for these documents may vary depending on your state. To ensure compliance with local codes, be sure to research the specific requirements for your area and only hire a contractor who possesses all the necessary permits and paperwork.

Does Your Business Operate Within A Specific Geographical Area?

When choosing a contractor, it is essential to select a local one. To verify their locality, inquire about their office location and confirm they have a local phone number. This provides you with the assurance that you can easily reach them if any issues arise with your roof.

Beware of opportunistic out-of-state roofing companies that exploit post-storm situations. They offer lower prices to secure quick payment and then move onto the next storm-ravaged area, disregarding local codes and proper installation.

Choosing a reliable local roofing company guarantees compliance with local installation codes and state requirements. They will handle all necessary paperwork and ensure a proper and accurate installation of your roof.

How Many Years Have You Been Operating?

Ensure the success of your roof replacement by considering the experience and longevity of the roofing company. It is important to inquire and research how long they have been operating in your area. While newer roofing companies may offer significantly lower prices, they may struggle with properly pricing jobs and maintaining financial stability. This can result in the company closing down during the winter months.

While there may be some promising young companies in your area, it is important to consider the long-term sustainability of a company when investing in your roof. You want to ensure that the company will still be around and able to provide necessary maintenance and support for your roof in the future.

Select an established contractor with a proven track record in your local area. The longevity of a roofing company does not necessarily equate to their quality; it simply ensures their availability in case of any issues.

Do Offer A Warranty For Your Workmanship?

Roof warranties are essential for safeguarding your roof investment. They consist of two parts: one for the roofing materials and another for the contractor's workmanship. To ensure optimal protection, it is crucial to inquire about the warranty a roofing contractor offers for their workmanship. They may provide various options ranging from one year to a lifetime.

When it comes to warranties, it's important to understand their value. For instance, a company that heavily depends on caulk may offer a two-year workmanship warranty, as caulking typically fails within a couple of years. On the other hand, a roofing company that truly prioritizes the quality of roof installation will provide you with a lifetime warranty.

Do You Hold Certifications From Shingle Manufacturers?

Leading shingle manufacturers carefully select a select few exceptional contractors from each location to undergo their rigorous certification process. This certification empowers contractors to provide their customers with the most comprehensive warranties and enhanced coverage on the materials supplied by the manufacturer.

Make sure to ask the roofing contractor if they are certified by any reputable shingle manufacturers and request a copy of their certification. This certification serves as confirmation that the manufacturer trusts and recognizes this specific contractor as a reputable company.

Typically, manufacturers approach contractors who are already established and recognized in the community for their excellent work. The reason behind this is that the manufacturer's brand becomes associated with the contractor's brand.

Do You Work With The Latest Materials?

Roofing contractors can recommend products from specific manufacturers over others, a common practice in the construction industry. Ideally, they do this with the following considerations:

• They ought to recommend products they believe will provide their clients with the best performance and durability. That includes considering the material’s longevity, resistance to weather conditions, and overall quality. For example, Monier roof tiles are specifically designed to protect against the harsh Australian climate.
• Contractors should be familiar with local building codes and regulations, which may dictate the type of roofing materials used. Consequently, they should recommend products that meet these requirements.
• Contractors should also consider the client’s preferences, budget, and specific needs. They may recommend different products based on whether the client is looking for an energy-efficient solution, a traditional appearance, or a budget-friendly option.
• Contractors should be transparent with their clients about their affiliations or agreements with specific manufacturers. They should disclose this information to clients if they receive incentives or discounts for promoting particular products.
• Likewise, contractors should also consider the client’s preferences, budget, and specific needs. They may recommend different products based on whether the client is looking for an energy-efficient solution, a traditional appearance, or a budget-friendly option.

What Measures Do You Take To Ensure The Protection Of Property?

When hiring a roofing contractor for work on your roof, their top priority should be protecting your property. For your own peace of mind, it is important to ask the contractor about the measures they take to safeguard your lawn, landscaping, and light fixtures.

For instance, a responsible contractor will use a tarp anchored from your gutters down to the ground, effectively covering the foliage and landscaping around your home's foundation.