Do's
and don'ts for homeowners.Roof maintenance (and replacement
at some point) is necessary to your home. Finding the right roofing company for
you is essential. We all have different things that are important to us, so figure
out what is most important for you. Is it quality workmanship? Is it warranty?
Is it price? Is it a financing option? Is it timing? Do you prefer a large company
or a small company? Do you want a large business or a small business? Do you want
a local business or a sole proprietor? There are no right or wrong answers, just
personal preference. Some things to consider when making your decision are:
DO:
- Many people are more comfortable with referrals or recommendations
from friends and family who have used the services of a particular contractor
so don't hesitate to ask around. If you're new to the area, consider checking
out the local Better Business Bureau online;
- Before you replace
your roof, you'll want to make sure that you have to replace it. Call in a professional
or two for their opinion.
- One of the most important things to
remember with your roof is that you should be inspecting it and maintaining it
on a regular basis. Once a year consider having a roofer inspect it. Most companies
will charge a flat fee for this service.
- The age of your roof
will tell you a lot about the condition of your roof. For example, the average
shingled roof lasts about 15-20 years in our climate so you can use that as a
barometer for how long your roof should last.
- Consider the environmental
impact of the roofing material you choose.
- You'll want to make
sure you've pre-qualified all of the contractors prior to having them bid on your
roofing job so you know that you're comparing "apples to apples".
- 'Google' the company or individual to see if complaints show up.
- If they have a website, read about the business. How long have
they been in business? What types of payment do they accept? Call their office
and make an appointment to meet.
- Include in the basis for your
final decision the thoroughness of the quote. For example, if you have skylights,
is replacement addressed? Will flashings be replaced? Has the chimney been inspected?
If so, does it need to be repointed prior to reroof? What is the condition of
your gutter system? What is the procedure if the decking is substandard? Are there
hidden costs or is everything dealt with? Will there be a daily and final clean
up of your job site? Will gardens and property be protected by the company during
the job?
- Expect and insist on the following:
- A current business license
- A minimum of $1,000,000 liability
insurance
- A Work Safe BC 'Clearance letter' - registering with
Work Safe BC entitles a company or individual to a Work Safe BC number, it DOES
NOT necessarily mean that they are paid up and in good standing. Protect yourself.
If the company is paid up and in good standing you as the homeowner are not liable
costs associated with accidents or injuries to workers that may happen during
your job.
- A minimum of five letters of references showing names,
dates and addresses. Ifyou are so inclined, drive by the addresses to see the
work for yourself.
- Photographs of their work
DON'T:
- DON'T choose a contractor where you are expected
to pay 50% or more upfront;
- DON'T go with someone who
you have an uneasy feeling about;
- DON'T be put off by
a contractor who cannot start your job the next day. In the height of roofing
season, in particular, you should expect that they can't start right away. Solid
companies with solid reputations have a job board that fills up quickly. Ask for
a timeframe to see if it meets with your needs and be flexible. Remember roofing
is weather dependent;
- DON'T be bullied into the hard
sell - take your time you DO NOT have to sign a contract that moment. Be wary
of a "Special price for today only". Ask yourself, "Why is that?"
- DON'T make your decision based on fear. 'Your roof looks
terrible, we need to start tomorrow but of course I'll need a signed contract
right now."
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