A Old Time Roofing has compiled this list of 15 questions homeowners should ask potential roofers before signing a contract. This will ensure that the company you choose is trustworthy and capable of completing the job right the first time. Wondering what to ask a roofing contractor? Keep reading.
1. Questions to Ask: Are You Licensed?
Answer you Want to Hear : Yes in Most States
Why you want to hear it: Many states require that a roofer is licensed in their state. However, every state is different. One code might be required in Boston, while another could be required for Nashville. What should a homeowner do? Check out the codes in your area. Contractors, including roofers, must be licensed in your area. Only work with licensed contractors so that you have confidence in the event of an emergency. Make sure the license is current. A very important example of what to ask a roofing contractor.
2. The Question to Ask: Are you covered by workman’s compensation insurance?
Answer You Want to Hear : Yes
Why you want to hear it: Employers with three or less employees used to not have to offer workers’ compensation insurance. However, now they must. Nevertheless, contractors and roofers may choose to skip this requirement. Why? Problem is when an employee is injured or the chance is taken on your premises. You might end up spending thousands of dollars on medical bills if you work with a company that does not offer workers’ compensation. This is an expensive loss that no homeowner wants. You can protect yourself by making sure that the company you hire has insurance for each worker who will be on your property. This is a great example of what to ask a roofing contractor.
3. The Question to Ask: Are you covered for general liability?
The Answer You Want to Get: Yes
Why you Want to Hear it: Workman’s compensation covers employees on your property, while general liability insurance covers your actual assets. It could happen that a contractor accidentally causes your house to burn down while welding something on your roof. If the company does not have liability insurance, you may be responsible for any damages caused by the tragic accident. Don’t trust the roofer when it comes to insurance. Ask for an insurance certificate. The certificate will include your name and address as additional insured. This ensures that if anything happens to you or your property, you are protected. You can still call your insurance company to ask if you are still unsure.
4. The Question to Ask: Can you remove my old roof?
The Answer You Want to Get: Yes
Why you want to hear it: Roofers claim they can save time and money by inspecting the roof with their eyes and then, if everything looks good, shingling it. You won’t know if there are any soft spots or rotten timber beneath your current shingles unless you pull them up. You will face more expensive and larger problems in the future if you leave behind bad spots. Do not allow a roofer to place a new roof on a house without first removing the old roof.
5. The Question to Ask: Will you be installing drip edge or edge steel when you install a new roof?
The Answer You Want to Get: Yes we can install a drip egde
Why you want to hear it: A small piece of aluminum is placed underneath the shingle at the roof’s edge. This metal extends beyond the roof, allowing runoff to flow into the gutters instead of behind them. It protects your fascia and roof wood. You will be liable for water damage if a drip edge isn’t installed. Some roofers won’t ask about drip edge unless they are specifically asked. It is important to ask about drip edge before hiring a roofing company.
6. The Question: Do you plan to use ladder standoffs or stabilizers to protect my gutters during roof installation?
The Answer You Want to Get: Yes, we take all precautions
Why you want to hear it: While you may not be thinking about it when you consider your new roof, the way the company gets onto the roof is just as important as the type and style of roof. Every roofing job should include ladder stabilizers or standoffs. Stabilizers look like large arms that rest on top of the roof or along the sides of the roof. The extension ladder can be quite heavy and may weigh several hundred pounds. This helps keep the gutters free from the extra weight. You might have a beautiful roof, but a ruined guttering system at your home after the job is done. You should ask the roofing company that you are considering what they will do for your gutter system to remain intact during the job. If they don’t answer, then you shouldn’t be relying on them to finish your roof.
7. The Question: Are you bringing a container to hold old material?
The Answer You Want to Get: Yes
Why you want to hear it: Any material from an old roof (shingles or otherwise) will need to go somewhere once it is down. To contain the refuse, the company that you hire must bring a container with them to the jobsite. This container should not be provided by you, and the old material should not be left unattended. Another great example of what to ask a roofing contractor.
8. The Question to Ask: Where are you going to put the dumpster?
The Answer You Want to Get: It all depends on your property situation. . .
Why you want to hear it: Asphalt driveways crack under extreme pressure. You may end up paying more if the company places the container onto your driveway. It is important to find out where the container will go and then ask the question. What are the provisions for driveway cracks? If the container is not located in the driveway, where will it be?
9. Questions to Ask: What should you do if there is inclimate weather?
Ask Questions
Why you want to hear it: Let’s face the facts: The weather man is sometimes wrong. While this isn’t a problem if you work all day, it can cause serious problems if your roof is being removed and replaced. What will the roofing company do to protect your home if the most beautiful day turns into a storm? Your roofer should have a plan. To ensure your roof and all below it remains dry, you should cover it with tarpaulin or plastic sheeting. Ask what the plan is in case of rainy days. Is the company available to check that the covering is still keeping the home dry? Will someone be available to secure the covering in case of a storm or high winds?
These are all very important questions to ask your prospective or current roofing company. Now that you know what to ask a roofing contractor, If you want to make sure you are working with the best roofing company in the St.Petersburg area contact us today to schedule a free roof inspection.