Roofing repair companies range from reputable contractors who perform excellent work to unreliable contracts who perform poor work, and sometimes fail to finish the job. Knowing the difference between these types of contractors can be difficult during the bidding phase. This is why it is important to research each contractor to see if they have the right credentials and experience for the job. Before hiring a provider of roofing maintenance, be sure that the contractor has the characteristics below.
Licensed, Bonded, and Insured
Hiring a contractor that lacks a contractor’s license, bonding, or insurance increases the risk for receiving poor workmanship, not being compensated for property that is stolen during the project, and not being compensated for a personal injury or property damage that occurs during the project. Before hiring a contractor, ask to see proof that they are licensed, bonded, and insured to perform roofing.
Experience Working with Individual Roof Types
Whether the roof is composed of shingles, tiles, or metal panels, a contractor should have experience installing and maintaining each type of roof. A common misconception among homeowners is that roofing repair companies specialize in repairing and maintaining all types of roof systems. Providers of roof maintenance often work with more than one type of system. However, unless they specialize in working with individual types of roof, they may not offer the best service.
Has a Physical Business Location
Reputable contractors typically have a physical business location. Roofing contractors have every reason to establish a physical business location that contains a business office and a facility for storing equipment because roofing companies succeed by developing a strong customer base that generates returning customers. Contractors who lack a permanent location often travel from mediocre job to mediocre job that never lead to the development of a solid customer base.
Strong References
A contractor should have an impressive list of references that testifies to the excellence of his or her work. If the contractor does not, the logical conclusion is that their work fails to impress his or her customers. Great references are a direct result of great work. If a contractor has bad or no references, find a different contractor.
Willing to Put Everything in Writing
Before the contractor begins work, the terms of the project should be put in writing, especially the completion date, the terms of the work order, and the total cost of the project. If a contractor refuses to put an important aspect of the project in writing, finding a different contractor who will honor the terms is the safest idea.
Conclusion
Buildings require roof repair for various reasons, including weather damage, the effects of aging, and improper installation jobs. However, the quality of the repair depends on the credentials and experience of the contractor who performs the work. If a building needs roofing repair, be sure to hire a provider of roof maintenance who displays the characteristics listed above.
