-1fw2d.jpg)
So you need to find a good roofing contractor and you don’t know where to start? Well, an independent roofing service is just a call away, right? Shouldn’t there be some sort of roofing contractor list or directory that has them all ranked 1-100 with the cheapest best quality ones right up top so you can save money and have a perfect experience?
The problem is, with hiring a reputable installer for a roof replacement, there is no perfect database. Finding a roofing contractor ratings list along with good weather guarantees, is as likely as tooth fairy at a dental cleaning. But if you’re looking for a step-by-step guide to take you from start to finish and ensure you and your family have the smoothest, most stress-free experience possible, we got you covered.
We get it, finding a professional roofing contractor is scary, but whether you want to get multiple top quality roofing contractors competing for your business, or you just want to check and ensure they’re legit this chapter will help you make a better informed decision.
We can’t promise it’s always fun, but when it’s all finished and you have a beautiful new roof that cost you less than you expected, you might just think it was worth it!
Find a Local Licensed Roofer
This can be done a few different ways. You can begin by visiting The National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) which maintains a list of licensing boards. Go to the NASCLA website and look under “Certified Contractors” for the state in which you live. If none are available, another way to find a licensed roofer can be done by visiting the Department of Consumer Protection and State Attorney General in step 2.
Find a Roofer That Has Verified Their License by Signing the Contractor License Agreement
Next step is verifying the License and Contractor Agreement along with checking the roofing company’s certification status. You can also learn lots of valuable information to help you make an informed decision regarding your roofing repair or replacement. This includes information regarding The Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, which safeguards you from unscrupulous contractors and illegal advertising claims. The most important step is to make sure the roofer holds a current certification or is registered within the state.
Check the Better Business Bureau for Any Registered Complaints About Your Potential Roofing Contractor
The Better Business Bureau has a vast database that contains most, if not every, legitimate roofing contractor within the state. You can type in your area and find a list of local roofing contractors that are operating in your county. It also allows you to search only for BBB accredited contractors, which are a select group of roofing contractors and roofing companies that have gone through careful vetting and evaluation. To become accredited, this group has to uphold all BBB standards and have a track record of doing so. While it is unnecessary for you to hire someone who is accredited or even listed on the BBB, it adds a level of security and safety to the enormous investment you are making.
Use the Resources From GAF Materials Corporation
Another tool is to visit GAF.com, which is one of the largest roofing material manufacturers in the US. They perform an annual certification of roofing contractors near you and check them for valid commercial insurance and years in business before granting a certification. While it may seem that this might be the easiest method of finding a contractor, remember that they are in the business of selling materials to roofers and not all roofers use what they create and might therefore find little value in associating with their brand.
https://www.gaf.com/en-us/for-homeowners/how-to-find-a-contractor
Visit the National Roofing Contractors Association Website
Besides visiting the Better Business Bureau and GAF, one last resource in your quest for a top quality roofer is to visit the National Roofing Contractors Association page and locate your state member directory. This will provide you with the smallest list of contractors. While it’s great to ensure the quality of roofing contractors who will work on your home, it’s important to remember that just because someone isn’t a member of the NRCA doesn’t mean they are not a great contractor and more than qualified to perform your roofing repair or replacement. In the same way, just because they have an excellent reputation within the BBB, that does not mean your due diligence is completed.
Get Local Referrals From Family, Friends and Neighbors
The most important tool in your tool belt is a referral from someone you know and trust who has “recently” had roofing work completed. It’s important to ask when the work was completed last because contractors and companies can change from year to year. The high quality roofing shingles they used in the past might have been downgraded to a cheaper brand of shingles with no warranty. Likewise, the cheap roofing contractor who was just getting started and offered the lowest price roof repair may have studied their craft and now charge accordingly. Ask them questions like:
• Why did they choose that roofing company?
• Would they use that contractor again? Why or why not?
• Was it the cheapest roof estimate they received?
• Did the quality match the expectation the roofer set?
• Did they stay within the budget for the roof repair or replacement?
• How did they first hear about that particular roofing company?
• Did they receive multiple quotes for the roofing work and did the contractor take the time to explain how the job would be completed?
• How long did the work take and how did they protect your roof when they were not at the job site in case of rain or inclement weather?
The advice you receive might help you avoid an overpriced or under-qualified roofer. Perhaps, it might help you find a contractor who is both high quality and fairly priced. If they had a positive experience, chances are high that you might too.
Final Words
Finding a licensed roofing contractor can feel like a monumental undertaking. From that first Google search of “roofing repair contractor” till the moment of your first meeting and quote, it takes a little while, but it’s essential. Likewise, there are many other factors to consider and specific questions YOU NEED TO ASK before the work begins. Not knowing exactly what to ask, a roofing contractor might end up costing you thousands on your roof repair or replacement.
Let's discuss your energy goals and find out if solar makes sense for you with a short virtual meeting.
Homeowners:
- Solar for $0 down
- Save up to 50% on your energy bills
- Increase your home value
- Get clean renewable energy
- Get a 30-year warranty
- Customized proposal and best value
Let's talk about going solar!
Jon Nelsen | Solar Consultant
jonnelsen.com
717-639-3544
