Finding the right roofer for your home or project can be like finding a babysitter for your children. You want to find someone trustworthy, reliable, and attentive to detail. If you are someone who is not familiar with roof work, it may be challenging to come up with the right questions to ask a roofing contractor when exploring your options. What to ask a roofer before hiring is even more important.
Right off the bat, common questions customers always ask:
- How long have you been in business?
- How many roofs have you installed?
- How do you handle unforeseen problems or delays?
- How long will the project take to complete?
- When can you start?
What is a Roofing Contract?
There are many more questions you can ask (and some you may not ever think of) – but before we get into all of them, let’s discuss what a roofing contract actually is.
A roofing contract ensures that both the customer and the contractor understand the terms of the project. The agreement should include:
- The Scope
- Budget
- Warranties
- Installation Methods
- Completion Time
- Termination Terms
All the above allows both parties to understand the project better before it starts. It will ensure that the payment schedule is clear, and that the contractor is legally protected against claims. A roofing contract provides the homeowner with peace of mind knowing that the business is legitimate. It puts it in writing that the work will be completed at the mentioned price.
Important Tip: Since a roofing contract is legally binding, you may want to consider having legal counsel review your contract before providing it to a client to sign. Here are some essential questions to ask a roofer before hiring.
The difference Between a Contract and a Proposal
Knowing the difference between a contract and a proposal can help you protect your interests and avoid any misunderstandings. If you’re not sure which one you need, be sure to consult with an attorney or other legal expert.
In the meantime, there are a few key differences between a contract and a proposal.
In a nutshell:
Roofing Proposals
A proposal is a marketing document that tells a potential customer what the roofer will do for them and what they will charge for the work. Professional roofing contractors will propose the offer to meet your request in exchange for some form of payment.
Roofing Contracts
A contract confirms that the roofer will do the work for the given price. Expert roofing companies will always use a contract because it’s a legally binding agreement. Remember that a well-written contract protects both the roofing company and the customer and helps ensure that the project is completed to the satisfaction of both parties.
Roofing contracts provide:
- Peace of mind.
- Protection during repair or replacement.
The Importance of a Roofing Contract
When thinking about what to ask a roofing contractor, you must also understand the importance of a roofing contractor. As a homeowner, you may not think much about your roof. After all, it’s out of sight and out of mind. But your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, and it needs to be properly maintained.
A roofing contract is a great way to ensure that your roof is well-maintained and that any repairs are made in a timely manner.
Here are just a few of the benefits of having a roofing contract:
- You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your roof is in good hands.
- A roofing contract can save you money in the long run.
- A good roofing contractor will be able to spot potential problems before they become serious, saving you time and money.
- A roofing contract gives you a single point of contact for all of your roofing needs, making it easy to get the help you need.
- A roofing contract can be customized to fit your specific needs, ensuring that your roof is getting the care it needs.
15 Essential Questions to Ask Before Signing a Contract
Learning the appropriate questions to ask a roofer before hiring them are crucial to the success of your roofing project. For one, asking a roofer the right questions can help ensure that you get the best possible service. By not hiring a roofer who offers a contract for their services you risk that the roofing company may not actually be an experienced roofer. So, keep in mind that if they do not offer a contract, they probably are not as professional as they pretend to be.
Let’s Dig Into It: Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor
Who will be doing the roof work?
This goes along with ensuring that the roofer is qualified and insured to be working on your roof. Some roofers may hire subcontractors to do a roofing job. This is a common trend in the roofing industry and a normal way of doing business. You need to understand that you, as a homeowner, have signed an agreement with the company that’s the one who is liable for the project. This means they can outsource the work to their employees or subcontractors, but all the responsibility is on the company. Always ask for proof of worker’s comp and general liability policy, as it will be your main defense paperwork if someone get’s injured or any major damages created to the house.
Can you provide me with references of past customers?
With today’s technology, it is easy to look up reviews for any business. You can find reviews for roofing companies on websites such as Google or Better Business Bureau , two main sources to qualify the business operations and reputations. There are many other platforms available to check on the company as well such as Yelp, HomeAdvisor, Houzz. In the long run, having a good felling and trusting your contractor is key to the successful project.
What roofing materials should be used based on the weather in my location?
The weather in your area is a critical factor when selecting roofing materials. You wouldn’t want a roof that can’t handle a hurricane if you live where storms go. Instead, you’d wish to the roof materials to be able to handle high winds.
What are your warranties and guarantees?
Warranties and guarantees are one of the most important roofing questions you can ask. Both guarantees and warranties give you peace of mind that your roof will be protected against any unforeseen problems. Warranties will vary between different contractors, be sure to read the fine print carefully before signing on the dotted line. That way, you’ll know exactly what’s covered and what’s not.
A roofing guarantee is a promise from the manufacturer or contractor that the roof will be free from defects for a certain period of time.
A warranty, on the other hand, is a guarantee from the contractor that they will repair or replace any defective materials or workmanship for a certain period of time.
Do you have a physical business address? What is the name of your business?
It’s a red flag if the company cannot provide a physical address. If a company can’t, find another company. In cases like these you can always check the company’s name and address online. Google the information, search on social media, online databases, and the Better Business Bureau to ensure that the information matches what you’ve been provided.
How many years of experience do you have?
Many references and examples of their work can provide great insight. In addition, an experienced roofer can put your mind at ease.
What materials are you using and is there are any extended warranties available?
We are at MY Pittsburgh Roofing certified and licensed with the GAF manufacturer. All our roofing projects are certified by GAF and extended warranties are provided for the work. The warranty is transferable with the sale of the property and can get a huge piece of mind for the new owner.
How will you make sure my home and lawn are protected during the project?
Many homeowners don’t consider how a roofing project could damage their landscape and home. The question to ask your roofing company are what steps they take to protect your home. Some contractors set foot traffic patterns for their crew. This will keep them from crushing your plants, grass, or flowers. Some companies will stay heavy equipment on the sidewalk instead of on the grass.
Who will handle cleanup?
Knowing what happens after your roof work is done before signing a roofing contractor is essential. Typically, roofers will be responsible for properly disposing of old material and trash from your roof. Ask the roofer about their cleanup process.
Do you take cash or credit card? Do you offer financing?
A new roof can be a considerable investment. It can be an investment that homeowners are not fully prepared to pay.
Questions to ask roofing company about payments are very important. Reason being is that some clients may have cash in full whereas others may need to use a credit card. However, not all roofing companies offer a way to pay via credit card. That said, many roofers, including offer financing options if you are unable to pay in full. Here at MY PITTSBURGH ROOFING, we offer awesome financing options.
Sometimes a contractor will request that if you pay in full, you pay in three separate fees:
- A down payment.
- A percentage the day they start.
- And the rest upon completion.
Do you service my neighborhood, city, or county?
When looking for a professional roofer, it’s crucial to find someone who is not only located near you but also has a business license in your state. Never accept someone’s word for it, either. Always ask for proof of paperwork.
Are you licensed and insured? Do you have worker’s compensation insurance?
It is vital to understand 2 important factors when asking for proof of insurance when hiring a roofer.
#1: First, ask for evidence of a roofer’s worker’s compensation certificate. This will protect you in case one of your roofers is hurt on the job.
#2: Next, ask for proof of bond and liability insurance. This protects you in case the roofer does damage to your home during the roof work.
Am I supposed to handle the permits? Will I even need permits?
Permits are not always required, but this depends on the type of roof work you are getting. Your roofer should know or can find out local laws and requirements for specific jobs. If they do not, or refuse to, move on to another until you find the expertise needed for roofing permits.
Can I terminate the contract?
The roofing contract should state the terms of terminating the project. This will include the notice that should be provided, any payments that are required, or information about whether deposits are refundable. Many roofing companies will require the client to pay a fixed percentage of the total value of the project or the cost of materials if they want to cancel past the specified date.
Will the price you quote me change at all?
It is common practice to receive an estimated quote for your roof work before signing a contract. Some homeowners may shop around to get different quotes from different contractors. The contractor will calculate the cost of materials and labor to get your roof work done after your roof is inspected. There may be some rot damage that cannot be seen during the initial inspection. If the original plywood underneath your roof needs to be replaced, you may see a change in your estimated quote. It shouldn’t be a dramatic change. Tax may also change your estimated selection.
How can I prepare before you get here?
Always ask each of your roofing prospects if there is anything you need to do in preparation for a roofing contractor. For example, if you get a complete roof replacement, you may want to clear your driveway. You may also want to make arrangements for pets and kids. The roofing contractor may also ask that you point out accessible power outlets if they need to plug in any tools.
We Fix Roofs
Looking to contract your roof with a professional roofing company? At MY PITTSBURGH ROOFING, communication is critical in roofing. So, at the end of the day, our customers can relax, knowing their roof is in good hands.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you in any way we can. Thanks for choosing MY PITTSBURGH ROOFING!
