9 Essential Questions to Ask a Roofer Before Hiring Them
Looking at the roof of your house and you think, “Is it ok?” When it comes to your home, your roof is one of the most important things that keep it safe. From basic repairs to a complete tear off and replacement, finding the right roofing contractor can make all the difference in your roof’s longevity and quality. But with an avalanche of options available, how can you be sure that you’re hiring a trustworthy, competent, and professional individual?
It all comes down to asking the right questions to a roofer before you make your choice. The right set of questions will lend insights into their experience, reliability, and overall roofing knowledge.
To guide you through the process, we have 9 essential questions to ask a roofer before hiring them.
- Are You Licensed and Insured?
These are some of the most important questions to ask any roofing contractor; it starts with whether or not they are licensed and insured. Legitimate roofers will be licensed in your area to work and have insurance for you and their workers.
Why It’s Important: A license guarantees that the roofer complies with industry standards and local regulations, whereas insurance protects against damages or injuries that could be incurred on the job.
We at NextDoor Exterior Solutions are licensed and insured so our customers can be sure everything is done professionally.
- How Long Have You Been Open for Business?
When it comes to roofing experience is of utmost importance. With years of experience in the industry, there might have been several challenges that a company with years of experience faced and you might have solutions for those.
Why It Matters: A company that has been around for a few extra years demonstrates that it knows how to provide quality workmanship.
Our company, NextDoor Exterior Solutions, has decades of experience in roofing solutions for residential homes.
- Can I See References or Testimonials?
A reputable roofer will be able to provide references from previous clients or have a solid online presence with positive reviews. Reviews — Google, Yelp, Better Business Bureau, etc. can give you their reputation.
Why It’s Important: References and reviews offer actual stories from past customers, allowing you to assess whether a contractor will live up to its promises.
NextDoor Exterior Solutions is passionate about our customers’ satisfaction, so take a look at our reviews and you’ll see how good we are!
- Is Your Work Guaranteed?
When a roofing company offers a strong warranty, it shows they stand behind their craftsmanship. Make sure to ask about both manufacturer warranties (on materials) and workmanship warranties.
Why It’s Important: A warranty safeguards you against surprise expenses for faults due to improper installation or defective materials.
We offer strong warranties covering both our labor and materials, so your investment is well protected.
- What Is Your Roofing Process?1
Having an understanding of what goes into the contractor’s work from start to finish can help you to set expectations and avoid any surprises during the project.
Why It’s Important: A transparent process is a demonstration of professionalism and can help ensure that the relevant parts of the in-career job will be related by the candidate.
We walk our clients through every step, from inspection to project completion at NextDoor Exterior Solutions.
- Can You Offer a Written Estimate?
It’s important to obtain a detailed, written estimate for the scope of work, materials, labor costs and the project timeline before any work is done.
Why It’s Important: Having a written estimate helps protect you against costs you didn’t expect, and it creates clarity between the two sides about the work that’s to be done.
At NextDoor Exterior Solutions, we believe in providing clear, detailed, and transparent estimates — no surprises!
- How Do You Think You Will Protect My Property During the Project?
Roofing projects can be messy, so be sure to ask how the contractor will protect your landscaping, gutters, and any other exterior features during installation.
Why It Matters: An experienced roofer takes steps to limit damage and clean up afterward.
NextDoor Exterior Solutions takes precautions and clean-up after the job is done!
- Have You Worked with My Type of Roofing Before?
Not every roofing system requires the same knowledge. No matter what your roofing type, whether it is asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or tile, your roofer should have experience doing work on your type of roofing.
Why It’s Important: You want someone who works in your type of roofing, who can provide a higher level of expertise and a better final product.
NextDoor Exterior Solutions is experienced with all different kinds of roofing systems and can provide expert installation or repair services.
- How Are You Different Than Other Companies?
There are a plethora of roofing contractors at your disposal, which makes it critical to know what one point of differentiation from another. Inquire into their commitment to quality and customer service, and what benefits they offer that their competitions does not.
Why It’s Important: A roofer who can confidently explain what makes them different will probably be more passionate about delivering a high-quality service.
At NextDoor Exterior Solutions, we take pride in our detail, customer satisfaction, and high-level craftsmanship.
Selecting the Best Roofer for Your Home
Hiring a roofer isn’t a decision to take lightly and knowing questions to ask a roofer will help you make an informed decision. Things like licensing, experience, warranties, and professionalism will all help ensure your roofing project gets into the best hands possible.
Your Next Door Exterior Solutions For a reliable roofing contractor, get in touch with us for a free consultation and estimate today!