Buying a new roof is a big investment. Follow these tips for choosing the right person for the job.

Can you provide a list of former customers as references?

In addition, ask for bad references. Any Contractor can deliver a list of good references – not all projects go as planned – you will find out how thecontractor performs when things do not go well.

Can you provide me with a current copy of your insurance certificate?

In particular, copies of liability coverage and workers' compensation certificates. Share the insurance certificate with your property agent for coverage and call the issuing agent to confirm it is current.

Can you provide me with copies of proposed assemblies and details from the manufacture’s published literature?

Will you furnish me with a copy of
proposed warranty?

Will there be sub-contractors?

If so, what are their names and license numbers? If your contractor does hire out a subcontractor, it is a good idea to go over all of the same questions with them. Of particular interest is insurance; be sure that the subcontractor holds all of the proper insurance so that you are not held liable for any accident that may occur on the job.

Will you submit a maintenance program for the new roof system?

Most roofing contractors will not offer a maintenance program for your roof once it is installed. Regular inspection of the new roof will allow for potential problems to be caught early and remedied before they cause substantial damage

Can you provide a list of the manufacturers with which your company is a licensed or approved applicator?

Most roof systems require special application expertise to achieve lasting quality.

What type of safety training do you provide for your workers and what industry education programs have they attended?

The best roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who install the roof system. An emphasis on safety ultimately lowers the cost of doing business, and further assures that your job will go smoothly.

Who will inspect your crew’s work after they have installed our new roof?

A good roofing contractor should have a quality assurance program. Use third party inspection (RRC, Manufacturer’s representative, etc.)

Are you a current member of any local and national roofing associations, i.e. the NRCA, NAHB?