15 Nov 5 Questions to Ask Roofing Contractors
When you have roof damage that needs to be repaired, or worse that’s so bad your roof needs to be 
replaced, you might be tempted to hire the first roofing contractor you find. But, before you sign on the dotted line, you need to ask that roofing contractors a few questions. Yes, you want to get your roof fixed and your home protected as soon as possible, but slowing down just a little bit will ensure you have a quality roof at the end of the project.
To find the right roofing contractor, make sure you ask them these 5 questions:
1. Do you have proof of insurance?
When it comes to insurance, you want to know your roof is covered and you’re covered in the event of an accident or property damage. Roofing contractors should have two types of insurance: liability and workers’ compensation insurance. The liability insurance will protect you from any damage that might happen as a result of the work being done on your home. The workers’ comp keeps you protected in case an employee is injured.
2. What type of warranty do you offer?
Just like with the insurance, you need to be looking for roofing contractors who offer two kinds of warranties: labor and manufacturer. The labor warranty is intended to cover the roofing contractor’s work on your roof while the manufacturer warranty covers the actual material. Before signing any paperwork, be sure to discuss the warranties the roofing contractors offer and understand all of the terms and conditions involved.
3. Do you have a local phone number and address?
Drive by roofers are pretty common in the roofing industry. These roofers chase storms from community to community and, in some cases, from state to state. They are only interested in quick jobs that have low overhead. Usually they don’t have insurance or offer any sort of warranty. The best way to avoid these roofers is by asking for a local phone number and address. Knowing the roofing contractor has a local presence means you’ll be able to find them if you have any issues with your roof.
4. Do you provide a written estimate?
Written estimates may not seem like an extremely important piece of the process, but in the event that a question arises about pricing or services, it does provide a paper trail. It’s in your best interest and in the interest of your roofing contractor to have a written estimate. If the roofing contractors can’t or don’t provide the written estimate, then consider working with someone else who will provide the estimate.
5. Do you hire subcontractors?
Ideally, the roofing contractors you hire won’t use subcontractors. However, if they do, make sure you interview the subcontractors and ask them the same questions, especially the proof of insurance question. There’s nothing technically wrong with subcontractors, but knowing the roofing contractor you hire is capable of handling the work will let you know they have the crew, time, and resources to complete the job.
Not all roofing contractors provide the same level of service or quality when working on your home. Asking these questions will help you find the best contractor for the job. And, if you’re ready for a no-cost roof inspection, the pros at Hoosier Contractors are ready to help you.