Spring and summer brings high winds and hail that can cause extensive damage to your homes roof. Finding the right roofing contractor is an important decision when reroofing or repairing damage. If possible, find a local professional who is willing to provide any information you need. Members of national or regional roofing associations are a plus and show a commitment to professionalism. Request recent referrals they have completed in the past few weeks. This assures they are not picking from a list of relatives or others that automatically give them an excellent recommendation.
Beware of the storm chasers. You see signs pop up in neighborhoods after a wind or hail event every spring and summer. Sometimes the telephone number looks local, but may include a company name you are not familiar with. With these storms come a band of less than reputable contractors from other parts of the country that follow storm damage around the country. Numerous complaints arise from substandard work, contracts or work orders the customer did not agree to, or worse yet, making a down payment and receiving no work at all.
Get at least two or three written estimates and retain a written contract detailing the work to be done, a material list and labor cost. Before starting work, retain a copy of the contractors liability insurance certificate. Put a start and finish date in writing and consequences if the contractor fails to follow them. For example the contract could be nullified if the contractor doesnt start on time.
Price is always an important consideration, but not the only one. Look for professionals with experience and quality workmanship.
