NRCA recommends you prequalify roofing contractors. The following guidelines will help:
Do your research
- Check for a permanent place of business.
- Make sure the contractor has a phone number, tax identification number and business license where required.
Check coverage
- Ask for copies of the contractor’s liability insurance coverage and workers’ compensation certificates and make sure both are in effect through the duration of your job.
Look for a proven track record
- The contractor should readily offer client references and a list of completed projects. You can call these clients to ask whether they were satisfied with the work.
Set the scope
- Insist on a written proposal and look for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, as well as start and completion dates and payment procedures.
Check their network
- Check whether the contractor is a member of any local, regional or national roofing industry association, such as NRCA. Membership demonstrates a commitment to the industry and professionalism.
Call your local Better Business Bureau
- Your local BBB can tell you whether any complaints have been filed against the company.
Understand the process
- Ask the contractor to explain the planned project supervision and quality control procedures.
- Request the name of the person who will oversee your project and how many workers will be on-site.
- Carefully read the warranty and make sure you understand the provisions that will void it.
- Keep a healthy skepticism about the lowest bid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Price is only one criterion for selecting a roofing contractor.