As the name suggests, a residential roofing contractor is a specialized trade professional or company licensed to plan, install, repair, and maintain roof systems on homes and other residential buildings. Unlike general contractors, residential roofing contractors are responsible for managing the entire roofing system, such as structural decking and underlying materials, as well as flashing, ventilation, and finish materials.
Have you been thinking about choosing a roofing contractor? If you don’t know where to start, you are in the right place. In this roofing guide, we will share step-by-step guidance to help you choose a reliable roofing contractor.
Step 1: Verify Licensing and Insurance
The process for choosing a residential roofing contractor begins with verifying the license and insurance. Checking the licensing and insurance will give you peace of mind and assurance that you are dealing with legitimate contractors who have the required licenses and insurance to work in your region.
Ask for the state license number and verify it directly with your state contractors’ license board. Also request both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Call the insurance broker to confirm whether the policies are active.
Step 2: Seek Local Recommendations
Once you have verified that the residential roofing contractors hold the appropriate licenses and certifications to work in your state, the next step is to seek local recommendations and review their track record. You can ask neighbors, friends, or local relatives rather than relying solely on online searches.
Look for local contractors in your region, as they can complete the roofing work in accordance with local codes and regulations because they understand regional building codes and weather conditions.
Step 3: Get Multiple Detailed Estimates
With the licenses, necessary verifications, and local recommendations, you might have a list of contractors offering professional roofing services. To be on the safe side and choose the contractor that best suits your needs, get multiple estimates from the contractors you identified above. Interview at least two to three contractors and ask for written proposals.
Ensure the estimate lists exact brand names and specific lines for shingles, underlayment, starter strip, and ice and water shield, rather than generic descriptions. Beware of low bids, as they often signal inferior materials or inadequate insurance.
Step 4: Understand Permits and Contracts
Understanding permits and contracts is a crucial step when choosing a roofing contractor. When making a contract, make sure the contractor has the permit to execute the roofing job. If a contractor asks you to skip permits, then walk away because a reputable contractor will pull the necessary local permits as part of their job.
Review payment options and avoid paying large upfront deposits. Standard practice limits initial payments to 10% of the total, subject to local regulations, with the balance due upon completion and satisfaction.
Step 5: Verify Warranties
This is the final, crucial step when choosing a residential roofing contractor. Verify the warranties before making the final choice. There are two main warranties to consider: the manufacturer’s warranty and the craftsmanship warranty. Make sure to choose the contractor that offers both warranties before you sign a contract with them.
