In light of the economic challenges facing all Americans, we at Palm Roofing want to reassure you that we are committed to helping you navigate these uncertain financial times. Palm Roofing stands strong, and we intend to be here to service your roofing needs for many years to come.
The purchase of new roof systems is an important investment. All roofing contractors are not alike, and we recommend that you pre-qualify your roofing contractor to get the job done right the first time. We are providing the following guidelines to help ensure that you make a wise investment with your hard-earned money.
Guidelines for Choosing a Roofing Contractor
- Take the time to personally visit the contractor’s physical place of business.
Verify that the contractor is equipped to support your roofing needs, both in staff members as well as equipment and inventory.
- Request proof of Workers’ Compensation & General Liability insurance coverage from the contractor.
Ask for copies of both insurance certificates and be sure to call the agent/carrier directly to verify that the insurance has not been cancelled.
NOTE: Many building and home owners have been dragged into litigation involving uninsured roofing contractors. Also, if a contractor is not properly insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property.
- Insist on a detailed written proposal.
Examine the proposal for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, including type of materials, as well as payment procedures.
NOTE: When comparing estimates, ask if permits, permit fees, warranties, and testing fees (if necessary) are included, or will there be additional costs?
- Carefully read and understand any roofing warranties offered.
How long is the warranty? Also, is it for labor and material?
- Look for a company with a proven track record.
Does the contractor offer client references and a list of completed projects? Ask to visit a current job in progress to witness the organization and execution of the project.
- Make sure the contractor is financially stable.
A professional contractor can direct you to a list of material suppliers to verify payment history.
NOTE: Financial instability by your contractor can cause your job to slow down or even stop due to credit issues with suppliers. Will the contractor be in business to both finish your job now, as well as warranty the work in the future?
- Request a list of roofing manufactures with which the contractor is licensed and/or an approved applicator for.
Most roof systems require special application expertise to achieve lasting quality.
- Have the contractor explain his project supervision and quality-control procedures.
Request the name of the person who will be in charge of your project, how many workers will be required and the estimated completion time.
- Check to see if the contractor is a member of any regional or national industry associations.
Being a member of industry associations demonstrates a commitment to professionalism.
- Make sure to call your local Better Business Bureau (BBB), Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), and also your county Code Enforcement Department to check for any possible complaints filed against the contractor.
BBB 561.842.1918 www.seflorida.bbb.org/
DBPR 850.487.1395 www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/
Code Enforcement:
Miami Dade 305.375.2333 www2.miami-dadeclerk.com/cef/
Broward 954.917.1330 http://www.broward.org/building/
Monroe 305.289.2583 www.monroecounty-fl.gov/
- Choose a company committed to workers safety and education.
Ask the contractor what type of safety training is provided for his workers and how they are educated. The best roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who install the roof system.
- Maintain a healthy skepticism about the lowest bidder.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Below cost bids by fly-by-night contractors may seem attractive, but these contractors are often uninsured and perform substandard work. Many will not be in business should warranty issues arise in the future. Remember, price is only one of the criteria for selecting a roofing contractor. Professionalism, experience, and quality workmanship should also weigh heavily in your decision.
