If you’re in need of a new roof, it may be tempting to ask a family member or a friend with a little handy work to assist you to save money. However, as tempting this might be, it’s best to hire a reliable, experienced, and professional roofing contractor to ensure that the job’s done correctly and safely. Purchasing a new roof is a significant investment, and one that is too important and too big of a job to leave to just anyone. Hiring a team who isn’t experienced, along with not being licensed or insured, can end up costing you a lot more in the long run. It’s best to work with a professional local contractor when investing in a new roof for your home.
In order to protect your investment, there are a few important questions you should ask before hiring a roofing contractor.
Do They Have Workers Compensation?
If you’re wondering why a roofing contractor needs workers compensation insurance, it’s to protect homeowners if the roofer gets injured while on the job. Say the roofer falls off your roof. Since the accident or injury occurred on your property, they could potentially try and hold you responsible. However, if the roofer has workers compensation insurance, then the homeowner is protected under that coverage, so that’s why it’s so crucial to ask about this while collecting quotes and gathering information before you hire.
Do They Have Liability Insurance?
Liability insurance coverage protects the homeowner from having to pay for any errors due to an accident or mistake caused by the roofer. Let’s say one of the roofers accidentally hits the brick of your chimney while repairing a part of the roof nearby. Without liability insurance, you might be responsible for calling a chimney repairman and paying the bill for the brick repair yourself.
Is it Weird to Ask for Proof of Insurance?
No. When you meet with a potential roofing contractor to get your estimate on a new roof, ask them to provide copies or proof of insurance and licensing upfront and verify that it’s valid. They need to have insurance and licensing in the state that your property resides in. While this may seem like an unnecessary step, it’s vital to ensure that you’re protected, so taking the initiative and asking for proof is a step you don’t want to miss.
Do They Have Verifiable References?
Another thing you’ll want to check out prior to hiring is some references and online reviews of the company to ensure they are in good standing with the community. Ask the roofer to provide at least three references from previous clients within the last five years. Once you get the references, verify the customer’s level of satisfaction with the company’s service. If the contractor is hesitant to give you references, then that’s a red flag, as a reputable contractor has nothing to hide and is upfront and honest, even if a particular job didn’t go as planned.
Protect Your Home by Hiring an Expert
A new roof is a significant financial investment worthy of protection. Performing a little extra due diligence in the beginning stages will ensure that you’re hiring the best possible roofing contractor for the job. This will result in the beautiful and professional outcome your home deserves. If you’re in need of a new roof or have questions about our team of experts or quality products, contact Armorvue Home Exteriors for a virtual appointment today.
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