Improper roofing work may result in damages of up to 10,000 dollars or more in water damage, but 38 percent of homeowners fail to verify the qualifications of their contractor. Your roof is a multi-year investment, and locating the top-notch roofing contractor in my area is as important as the selection of the materials. This guide explains how to choose a roofing contractor in order to get quality work and to prevent scams.
The Reason Why it is Important to choose a Good Roofer
The main problem with roof failure is poor installation (60 percent), whereas high-quality roofers provide a 10-50-year warranty. Our trustworthy contractor will offer durable results, save your energy costs, and give you peace of mind, as your home will not experience leaks and expensive treatment.
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7 Process to Select the Top Roofing Contractor
Step 1: License & Insurance verification
- Must-Haves:
- State roofing license (check through the state licensing board).
- General liability insurance ($1M+ coverage).
- Workers’ compensation (shields you from injury lawsuits).
- Red Flags:
Claims permits aren’t needed or no proof of insurance.
Step 2: Check Manufacturer Certifications
- Top Certifications:
- GAF Master Elite (top 5% of roofers).
- CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster.
- Owens Corning Platinum Preferred.
- Why It Matters:
Certified roofers access premium materials and extended warranties.
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Step 3: Research Reviews & References
- Where to Look:
Google/BBB (3.5+ stars, 50+ reviews), neighborhood Facebook groups. - Action:
Request 3 local references from recent jobs. - Pro Tip:
Search “company name + lawsuit/scam” online.
Step 4: Compare Detailed Written Estimates
- Good Estimate Includes:
- Material specifics (e.g., GAF Timberline HDZ).
- Labor warranty duration.
- Start/end dates.
- Payment schedule (avoid 100% upfront).
Step 5: Ask These 8 Critical Questions
- Will you handle permits?
- Who supervises the project?
- How do you protect landscaping?
- What’s your process for unexpected damage?
- Do you subcontract labor?
- What’s your safety record?
- How do you handle debris cleanup?
- Can I see a sample contract?
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Step 6: Understand Warranties
- Types:
- Manufacturer (materials, 20–50 years).
- Workmanship (installation, 5–25 years).
- Gold Standard:
50-year non-prorated material warranty, 10+ year labor warranty. - Warning:
“Lifetime” warranties often have loopholes – read carefully.
Step 7: Avoid Storm Chasers & Scams
- Storm Chaser Signs:
Door-to-door sales post-storm, insurance pressure, large deposits. - Safe Choice:
Local firms with physical addresses, 10+ years in business.
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Red Flags to Watch For
- No local office or storefront.
- Cash-only discounts.
- Out-of-state license plates on crew trucks.
- Refusal to provide written contracts.
Your Action Plan
How to Choose a Roofing Contractor?
- Compile 5 local roofers with certifications.
- Interview 3 using the roofing contractor checklist.
- Compare contracts line-by-line.
- Verify licenses and insurance.
- Never pay cash or full price upfront.
Final Tip: The cheapest bid often leads to costly repairs – prioritize credentials over price. For the best results, contact Onlyroofing – the number one roofing contractor!
