Imagine a knock at your door. Someone claims to be a roofer working in Stafford, offering a free inspection of your roof. They may even offer to handle your insurance claim and take care of everything. Be cautious!
In Texas, unlike other Gulf Coast states, roofers are not required to have a license, so anyone can claim to be a roofing professional. To protect yourself, it’s crucial to ask the right questions and confirm the roofer’s legitimacy. Here’s a checklist of essential questions to ask before hiring any roofing contractor in Stafford or nearby areas.
Roofing contractor checklist: what to ask before hiring
1.What is the company’s name and address? Are they based locally?
A local company with a physical presence is easier to contact if any issues arise. A company without a Stafford-area office may be harder to reach for future repairs.
2. How long has the company been in business?
Established companies often have proven expertise and a track record of satisfied customers. A longer time in business can indicate reliability and stability in their work.
3. Can they provide references?
Contact previous clients and ask for photos of the roofer’s completed work to verify the quality.
4. What do reviews say about the company?
Search the company’s name on Google and sites like Yelp. Reviews provide insights into the roofer’s reputation, service quality, and reliability.
5. Have they been rated by the Better Business Bureau?
Look up the company on the BBB website for reviews and contact information.
6. Are they licensed, bonded, and insured?
After major storms, contractors often approach neighborhoods looking for work. Although tempting, choosing the cheapest roofer could mean they lack necessary licensing, bonding, or insurance, which may void future insurance claims if issues arise.
7. Do they obtain work permits?
Check if they handle the necessary permits, and ask for an explanation if they don’t.
8. Are you obligated to hire them if the insurance claim is approved?
Some roofers may pressure you to sign an agreement before filing a claim. Certain contracts obligate you to use them if the insurance claim is approved.
9. Is the company certified by a shingle manufacturer?
Many shingle manufacturers certify roofers to install their products. Using a certified roofer helps ensure that you can access warranty-covered repairs if needed.
10. What down payment is required?
Contractors typically request an upfront payment, often around half of the job’s cost, but some are open to 25%. Never pay in full until the work is completed.
11. Who will be installing the roof, and what experience do they have?
Ensure the crew working on your roof has solid training and experience with similar projects. Skilled, knowledgeable installers are key to a high-quality, long-lasting roof.
12. What does the warranty cover, and how long does it last?
Clarify what parts of the roof are covered under warranty and for how long. A strong warranty can protect you from unexpected repair costs down the line.
13. What roofing options are available?
When selecting a new roof, you’ll have options for both color and style, but it’s not just about aesthetics. For a more sustainable choice, consider “cool roofs.”
According to Consumer Reports, while cool roofs aren’t a new concept, they’re a smart option if you’re looking to replace your roof and reduce your carbon footprint without investing in expensive solar panels. The key is to choose a lighter-colored roof, which reflects more sunlight compared to darker shades. This can lower the energy needed to cool your home by as much as 15 percent. White roofs are particularly effective, reflecting between 60 and 90 percent of sunlight, as noted by the Department of Energy. You might also explore “cool colored” roofs, which use specially formulated pigments to reflect 30 to 60 percent of sunlight even with darker shades.
For guidance on purchasing cool-roof products for both shallow- and steep-pitched roofs, refer to the Department of Energy’s Energy Saver page, and explore cool-roof products listed by the Cool Roof Rating Council.)
For reliable local roofing services in Stafford, Texas, consider reaching out to R. Cooper Roofing & Siding. With years of experience in the industry, they specialize in a wide range of roofing solutions, from repairs to full replacements. Known for their commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, they ensure that every project is completed with attention to detail and integrity. Their knowledgeable team can guide you through the selection of materials and styles to best fit your needs, making them a solid choice for your trusted local roofing experts.
Some red flags you should look out for when hiring a roofer:
- Extremely low-price quotes
- Requests for full payment upfront
- High-pressure tactics to sign a contract
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