Questions To Ask a Roofer Before Hiring

Hiring the right roofing company is not easy. You need to make sure you are dealing with a reputable roofing contractor. In addition to checking client reviews and their previous projects, be sure to take some time to talk to your prospective roofers.
Here are some questions to ask a roofer before hiring: Interview questions for your prospective local roofing company.

Ask: Do You Have A Local Phone Number And Address?

This is one of the most important things to ask when getting roofing quotes. One way to find out the roofing company is legit is to find out if they have a local phone number and address.
Having a local phone number and office address means your prospective roofing contractor is based in your area. Look for local roofers Tampa, and make sure they are really from here.
Do not forget to call the contact number provided to validate. If you have the time, visit their address, as well. A reputable roofing company always welcomes customers and even takes them for a tour.
It's a red flag if a contractor cannot provide you with a local phone number and address. This is one way to tell that they may be storm chasers.

Things to Know About Roofing Scams

When hiring someone to work on any part of your home, you should beware of unscrupulous individuals. Knowing how to hire a roofer will filter out the scammers can save you a lot of time, money, and hassle.

What Are Storm Chasers?

They are out-of-town roofers who usually take advantage of residents and business owners. They go door-to-door, claiming that they were sent by your insurance provider to fix your property or roof. Keep in mind that they are good salespeople and may offer you big discounts to make them more convincing.

Why Do You Need To Avoid Them?

• They perform illegal work
• They cannot offer you warranties
• You cannot reach them when something wrong happens
• They have little to no knowledge about local roofing requirements

Ask: Do You Have An Up-to-Date Roofing License In Florida?

As a homeowner or business owner, it is important to choose a roofer with complete licensing, so when considering what to ask a roofing contractor, this should be near the top of your list. An experienced contractor should always keep their license and permits updated to protect their roofing business and their customers.
Having an updated license in Florida also ensures your roofing contractor complies with the state building codes and other policies. You should not even take roof advice from an unlicensed contractor, let alone hire them.

Advantages Of Hiring A Licensed Contractor For Your Roofing Project

Whether it's minor roofing work or a full roof replacement, it is always advisable to look for reputable roofers. Here are the reasons you should hire a licensed roofer:

• Legal compliance
• Superior workmanship
• Safety
• Save money and time
• Comprehensive product and roof installation warranties
• Comprehensive insurance coverage
• Peace of mind
• Get answers to all your roof questions

Ask: Do You Carry General Liability Insurance?

One of the most important questions to ask a roofing contractor is whether they carry an insurance policy. Keep in mind that you can be held liable if roofers get hurt within your property. That's why you should ask your prospective roofers if they carry insurance before you work with them.
A reputable contractor should also discuss the coverage and exclusions of their liability insurance.

Ask: Do You Have Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Like liability insurance, workers' compensation will protect you from being liable for worker injury. Workers' compensation insurance can cover all the medical or lost wages expenses in case they get injured or fall sick while working. In addition, it may also provide assistance to the worker's family in case they had fatal injuries.
Without workers' compensation and liability insurance, you can be held responsible and might even end up paying for the medical bills and recovery costs.

Ask: Do You Provide a Detailed Written Estimate?

One of the questions to ask when getting a roof estimate is whether the contractor provides a detailed written estimate. You know you are hiring a transparent roofer if (in addition to the above) they can provide you with a detailed estimate. Be sure to have these roofing quotes in writing so you can easily compare their rates with other roofers. Getting a new roof in Tampa can range from $3,000 to $20,000, depending on the selected materials, size of the roof, and the complexity of the project, so your estimate should specify these details.
A qualified roofer should have a detailed breakdown of the costs. If you have questions about the cost of your new roof, do not hesitate to raise them.

Ask: How Long Does It Take To Complete The Roof From Start To Finish?

Local pros should give you a clear timetable or projection so you can set expectations. Getting a new roof in Tampa Florida usually takes an entire day to finish. However, there are some factors to consider when it comes to roofing installation. These include the size of your property, roof access, availability of materials, and weather conditions.
In some severe cases, it may take up to a week to completely finish the repair or installation.

Ask: How Long Is My Roof Warranty and What Does It Cover?

This is one of the most important questions to ask roofers. Be sure to have this on your checklist! As a homeowner or business owner, you need to have a clear understanding of the warranty they provide. Find out the duration of the warranty. What is the coverage? Be sure to have this included in your contract. Otherwise, you will have problems in the future.

Importance of Reputable Manufacturers

Hiring a professional roofing contractor is one of the most important decisions you need to make. Take note that your roof is one of the most functional parts of your home. That's why you need a professional to ensure safety.
As much as possible, choose a roofer who partners with reputable manufacturers. GAF, Varitile, Owens Corning, and Drexel Metals are some of the most trusted manufacturers in the business. These institutions can provide some of the most comprehensive warranties that protect customers in the long run.

Ask: What Is The Timeframe For Backing Out?

One of the questions to ask roofer is the timeframe for backing out. We've heard multiple stories of roofers taking advantage of tying up a client. When your prospective roofing contractor is "rushing" you to sign the contract or requires full payment upfront, then you might want to raise a red flag.

Ask: What Is The Cost of Plywood Replacement Should You Find Rotten Roof or Soft Roof Decking?

One of the questions you should also ask is the cost of plywood replacement. This will give you an idea if the roofing company gouges customers with fees once the work has started and decking problems are found. This is quite common, so know the potential cost in advance. Do your research and find out the market price. A reputable roofing company should always give its customers an honest and fair assessment.

Ask: What Will You Do In Case of Inclement Weather During the Job?

There is no doubt that weather conditions can affect roofing in Tampa. However, a highly-trained roofer should always have contingency plans to address this problem. Can they still stick to the deadline? What adjustments do they need to make in order to complete the project? Again, be sure to have this in the contract.

Ask: When Do I Need To Pay For My Roof Project?

One of the questions to ask your roofer is when do you need to pay for the roofing project. Again, it's always a red flag if they are asking for full payment before the work begins. Reputable roofing companies rarely require their customers to pay upfront!

Ask: What Is The Payment Structure For My Roofing Project?

Reputable roofing companies don't just provide a free estimate but also offer flexible payment options. Whether a roof repair or installation, this should always be on your hiring a roofer checklist!

Ask: Do You Bring a Container For Refuse Material?

The right roofer for you is one who will clean up after the job. Experienced contractors should have a complete set of tools and equipment. They also bring a container for refuse materials to ensure the job site is clean and organized before and after the project.

Ask: How Will You Protect My Landscaping During roofing?

Your roofer should have a concrete plan on how to protect your property while working on your roof. Find out what tools will they use to protect your furniture, landscape, and other fixtures.

Ask: Do You Remove My Old Roof?

While installing shingles over an existing roof is possible in some cases, keep in mind that this is not a recommended method. Ask your roofer if they are going to remove your old roof before installing the new one.

Final Words

Hiring a roofing contractor you can trust won't be easy. You need to be patient to ensure you are dealing with the right roofer. Knowing what to ask a roofer before hiring can definitely point you in the right direction. Never put your home or property at risk. Take time to talk to them. Ask for references and check their qualifications.
Affordable Roofing Systems is an award-winning roofing company based in Tampa, Florida. We specialize in residential roofing and commercial roofing, offering a full range of roofing solutions. Get a free estimate now!