Homeowners routinely have to hire professional roofing contractors to perform metal roof installations, replacements, and repairs. The sometimes unpredictably extreme weather that we have here in North America can take its toll on one’s roof. Before settling down with a professional roofing contractor however, there are some key questions that should be answered.
Can you see projects that the roofing contractor has done previously?
Irrelevant of what is being offered upfront, you want to know you’re in the hands of someone who is knowledgeable and experienced at their job. Inquire about past projects and assess their workmanship. Ignore the salesmanship, and pay heed to the way the jobsite is kept and the attitudes involved.
What exactly is included in the roof replacement, installation, or repair?
Every professional roofing contractor works a little differently and cost estimates are not always made equal. In addition, there may be additional issues that could significantly increase costs, such as building permits and local legislation. No homeowner wants to cut corners on their metal roofing installation and/or to pursue an illegal installation. Therefore, be sure to know what is included in the estimate and to inquire about if any permits or similar items are required to complete your roofing work.
What is the expectation regarding how a job site will be left at the end of the day?
Roof replacements and/or installations are multi-day jobs in some cases. Throughout this process, you don’t want to leave your house open to the elements. Also, the site should not look like a wreck. At the end of the day, the site should be as tidy as it can be, tarped where/when appropriate, and kept free from safety hazards. If there are any doubts, be sure to write this into the roofing contract prior to hiring.
Does your roofing contractor have workman’s compensation and liability coverage?
Any experienced professional roofing contractor should come with insurance including workman’s compensation and liability. If there are any doubts, seeking a document from the insurance provider addressed to you is not uncommon. A professional contractor may not be willing to go through the effort of providing such a document however asking is not offensive. In the event that someone is hurt or has fallen, you do not want them suing you for medical costs and lost wages. Always confirm that a roofing contractor has the necessary insurance in place.
What sort of warranties are provided with their roofing work?
Note that a manufacturer’s warranty only covers the materials themselves and not the labor. Thereby, it is the responsibility of the contractor to provide a warranty on work completed. A 1-year or 2-year warranty is standard among professional roofing contractors in Ontario. Be sure to have it in writing, ensuring everything is kept on the up-and-up.
No matter where in the province you may be based, hiring the right roofing contractor is imperative. By selecting correctly, you will ensure the installation is carried out properly, work is completed ethically, and that the materials used are cost-effective, high quality, and durable. These are the 5 questions to ask roofing contractors before hiring. Hopefully, the answers will shed light into what is the right option for your home.