Choosing the Right Contractor

Keep a healthy perspective about the lowest bid. Price is only one criteria for selecting a roofing contractor. Professionalism and quality workmanship should weigh heavily in your decision.

Though a low bid may at first seem attractive, make sure you are not dealing with a contractor who is uninsured or performs substandard work.

If you regularly deal with the same group of roofing contractors, you can pre-qualify your prospects based on criteria specific to your unique requirements.

A Professional Roofing Contractor
Are you working with a legitimate, professional contractor?

Is the contractor well established with a permanent address,
    tax identification number and business license?
Does the contractor have a solid, stable business history?
Is the contractor committed to professional service?
Does the contractor have qualified staff and the right equipment?
Who will be in charge of the project?
How many workers will be involved?
What are the provisions for onsite supervision and quality control?

Associations
Is the contractor a member of any industry associations or organizations?

Members are better informed about current developments in the industry. Look for memberships with:

NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association)
WSRCA (Western States Roofing Contractors Association)
BBB (Better Business Bureau)

Check to see if any complaints have been filed

Safety and Insurance
Ask the contractor to provide proof of liability insurance coverage.
As a building owner, you can be held liable for accidents that occur as the result of hiring an uninsured roofing contractor.

Ask for copies of workers compensation certificates and copies
    of insurance certificates showing the amount of liability coverage.
Make sure the coverage will be in effect through the duration of your job.
    Do workers attend ongoing safety and industry education programs?

Bonding Capacity

Check with your state's department of professional regulation or licensing board to see if a prospective roofing contractor is properly licensed and/or adequately bonded.

Financial Status

Ask to see copies of the contractor's current financial information including current assets, net fixed assets, and other liabilities, and references from their financial institution or auditor.

Experience and References
Does the contractor have the necessary experience?

Does the contractor have a proven track record? Ask for client
    references and a list of completed projects for recent clients.
Call the clients to find out whether they were satisfied with
    the contractor's performance.
Many roof systems require special expertise for quality results.
    Which roofing manufacturers have certified, licensed or approved
    the contractor for installation?