What to Look For in a Roofer

When it is time to select a roofing contractor, remember that all roofing contractors are not alike. A new roof is a big investment - take your time and make a smart decision, Use good common sense and follow these guidelines:

1. Ask your friends and neighbors for the names of contractors that they have used and would recommend. The best referral is a satisfied customer.
2. Look for a company with a proven track record, and a company that conducts business in a professional manner. Avoid hiring a fly-by-night roofer by making sure the contractors have permanent business addresses and phone numbers. Once you have three or four company names, call and ask them to come out and give you an estimate. Then do some detective work on each.
3. Call the Better Business Bureau to find out if there are any complaints on file against the contractor.
4. Request previous history of completed jobs from your prospective roofing contractor. Ask for some older jobs that the contractor has completed.
5. Make sure the contractor carries general liability, worker's compensation and automobile insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance.
6. Ask the contractor if he is licensed and have him show you his Maryland Home Improvement License.
7. Make sure the contractor offers a material warranty and a labor warranty. At contract time, make sure that both are in writing.
8. Get written estimates and make sure they are itemized enough to be able to compare them to each other.
9. Get a detailed list of the materials to be used and payment methods. Beware of any request for unusually large sums of upfront money before beginning work.

Be wary of contractors with very low bids - they may have cut corners to make a profit. Remember, PRICE IS ONLY ONE of the criteria for selecting a contractor.