Roof repairs and replacement are a major expense, but the investment can increase a home’s value. Because of this, it is important for homeowners to do their homework and choose an experienced, reputable contractor. The options can be daunting for homeowners because of the number of substandard contractors out there. When a person chooses roofing contractors in Joplin MO, they should contact us to avoid the common mistakes listed below.
Not Researching the Contractor’s Reputation
Customers should do their homework before choosing a residential roofing company. Important areas for residential customers to consider are listed below.
- Location: Homeowners should be wary of door-to-door roofing companies. Established contractors have a physical address out of which they do business. If a company only provides a PO box, the customer should ask for an actual address.
- Customer reviews: There’s no better feedback than past customers’ experiences. Most residential roofers post past clients’ testimonials online, but potential customers should also visit other sources such as Angie’s List and the Better Business Bureau.
Hiring Unlicensed Contractors
If the home is damaged or a worker is injured on the job, the homeowner could be held liable if the company does not have sufficient insurance. Reputable residential roofers should have general liability coverage to protect the home in case of damage, and they should have workers’ comp coverage for on-the-job injuries. During the research phase, the customer should check each company’s credentials to ensure they’re hiring a licensed, qualified roofer.
Not Getting a Written Estimate
Customers should beware if the roofer is reluctant to sign a contract, and instead asks for an upfront cash payment. It is important to get details such as labor, costs, materials and change orders in writing, to protect the homeowner’s investment and allow the customer to accurately compare quotes from multiple companies.
No Warranty
Securing a comprehensive warranty is a wise decision. A reputable roofer will stand behind their work with a warranty, and they will tell customers about manufacturers’ warranties on roofing materials. Additionally, the customer should look for Roofing Contractors in Joplin MO who will be around long enough to honor the warranty.
