How to Choose a Roofing Contractor

Finding a reliable and reputable roofing contractor can be challenging. Whatever your needs are, you need a professional roofing contractor you can trust. A professional roofing contractor will provide you with sound advice on products and procedures with a complete explanation and most important-solid results. Here you will find a step-by- step guide to assist you in choosing a reliable and capable roofing contractor who is right for you.
Step 1: In The Beginning
A roofing system is a complex combination of elements, the success of which depends on the quality of shingles, installation, and overall construction. There are many ways to begin your search for a roofing contractor who can meet your needs. Referrals from friends and family are by far the best method for choosing a contractor. Be sure to ask them for names of companies they may have used before. Ask them to tell you about their experience with the company and if they would consider using them again. Contact your local chamber of commerce about roofing companies and be sure and ask if they are active in your community. The Better Business Bureau is another great resource. The Bureau lists any and all complaints about businesses whether they are a member or not and is an excellent resource for checking out a company’s reputation. Another resource is state and local licensing authorities. These agencies require businesses to possess a contractor’s license. You can visit the state licensing board for California here. Local trade organizations are another invaluable resource for checking out a company.

Step 2: Meeting and Evaluating the Potential Contractor
Take the time to evaluate each contractor by the information listed in step 1. A professional contractor will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with any information you may require. Many customers report being mystified by the seeming lack of interest and response from the contractors they call. The best way to get a roofing contractor to respond to your call is tell them you are shopping around. A smart contractor is also shopping around for a good customer who will bring him a fair profit and future referrals. Set up a meeting to discuss your needs and their qualifications, and be sure to pay close attention to the attitude of the company’s representative. Good contractors take pride in their work and will be enthusiastic about the possibility of helping you with your roofing projects.

A contractor should always have:
1. Licensing/Bonding
2. Insurance Coverage
3. Professional References
4. Business Name/Company Address/Telephone

Step 3. Utilizing the Contractor’s Product Knowledge

A good contractor also keeps up with the latest roofing industry technology and materials. He should also be able to advise you on ways to save energy as well. Whether you are repairing a portion of your roof or replacing it entirely, now is the time to consider related projects. Maybe you need new roof vents or gutters and downspouts, or even skylights. Now is the time to determine if you want or need these enhancements. For example, many people are replacing their conventional electric attic fans with eco-friendly solar powered models when they are replacing their roof system. Ask the contractor about these enhancements and also about any other energy saving devices not mentioned here.

Step 4. Negotiating the Contract

Before you sign a contract, most roofing contractors will provide you with an estimate or proposal. An estimate typically provides a single price, a generically described product, a color and no options. A proposal offers more detail with a choice of products by brand name, prices, services, and design options: good, better and best. Typically samples of materials to be used will be included along with product literature. A good contractor will take the time to prepare a good proposal. When a contract is presented it should ALWAYS spell out the scope of the work to be performed, prices and completion date. Read the contract carefully. Misunderstandings are the most common cause of contract disputes.

The following points should be covered in the contract:

1. Building Permits if required
2. Start and completion dates
3. Products/Materials to be used
4. Project Inspections if they are required by city and or state inspectors
5. Site Procedures-work hours, clean up procedures, and safety
6. Warranties-includes both materials and workmanship

Step 6. Sit Back and Relax

A little well-planned research up front will undoubtedly save you a lot of time, trouble and hassle later on. Once you have selected a contractor that you feel confident in, sit back and relax and let him do his job, but be sure and monitor the progress of the project to make sure the contractor lives up to his reputation.

Its Your Choice

Permanent Roof will work closely with you to determine your needs, answer your questions, discuss your concerns, and help you decide on which roofing system is best for you. Give us a call today at (310) 838-ROOF or via email

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