The 5 Things You Should Always Ask Your Roofer Before Signing a Contract

Finding the right roofer can be time-consuming. Always exercise your due diligence when hiring a contractor to prevent any difficulties down the road. Especially for homeowners in Colorado Springs, an area prone to hailstorms and frequented by “storm chasers” and “fly-by-night” roofers, it is crucial to choose a trustworthy roofing company. Here are 5 questions you should always ask your roofer before signing a contract:

1. What is your company’s address? Ask this question to ensure your roofer is local. Be wary of contractors who provide a P.O. box address. Oftentimes, this can be a dead giveaway that your contractor has no local permanent address. Especially after a major event like a hailstorm, watch out for roofers coming in from other cities or states. If they do not have a permanent address, this is a red flag. Think ahead in terms of the future and longevity of your roof. For example, if your roof repair fails, will someone from this company be there to help you? If not, you may have to pay yet another roofer to fix the problem or even correct a mistake. This can easily become costly.
2. What warranties will I receive? Whether you have a roof repair or new roof replacement, it is important to discuss what warranties you will receive. Ask about what the warranties will or will not cover. Will your roofer stand behind their workmanship warranty? According to the Certified Contractors Network booklet titled How to Make a Successful Construction Investment, most contractors will offer a workmanship warranty for one year or longer. The booklet also suggests that the length of the warranty period is less important than the contractor’s ability and willingness to stand behind that warranty. Warranties on roofing materials vary depending on the product you choose. Make sure your roofer provides information about your roofing material warranties as soon as you select a roofing product for installation. Also, if you plan to sell your home, inquire about the transferability of your warranties.
3. Is your company licensed? Never hire a contractor who isn’t licensed. Homeowners in El Paso County can look up contractor information using the contractor search tool on the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department website. Homeowners in Teller County can do the same thing by using the Teller County Building Department contractor search tool. These sites will also provide confirmation that your roofer carries both workman’s’ compensation and general liability insurance.
4. What products will you be using? Before signing a roofing contract, make sure you are aware of what materials your roofer will be using. Particularly in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas, always ask whether or not your shingles will be impact resistant.
5. Where will I be on the schedule? It is important to have an idea of when your roofing project will be taking place so you can plan ahead. Of course, it’s sometimes difficult to predict whether or not the weather will allow for a roofing project to take place. Your contractor should be able to provide at least a rough timeline of when the project will begin and when it will end. This will allow you to keep your property and personal belongings safe and secure throughout the duration of the roofing project.

Before signing a roofing contract, it is crucial that you conduct your own research. Ultimately, taking the time to ask a few questions will help you save money and protect your home. Once you’ve asked these five questions, you can be confident that you’re choosing the right roofing contractor.

Click here to schedule a free roofing assessment with Rampart Roofing, Inc. today!