According to recent data, the number of insurance claims related to roofing continues to increase, with some insurance firms reporting double the repair claims in 2022 compared to previous years. If you need a roof replacement, a roofing contractor can help you assess the damage and carry out the repairs.
Unfortunately, many general contractors are underqualified to handle complex roofing repair and replacement jobs, even those listed as the insurer’s preferred service providers (or PSPs). Homeowners looking for qualified roofing contractors often opt for an insurance restoration contractor to handle more specific tasks, such as navigating the insurance adjuster’s assessment and completing multi-step repairs.
Before hiring any contractor to handle your project, asking these questions can help you better understand your potential contractors’ experience to choose the best company for the job.
1. Are you licensed?
Roofing contractors should be licensed with local and state credentials, which should be public records at your city administrative office; however, contractors can provide copies of their licenses on request. All licenses should be up to date; don’t be shy about asking to see or have a copy of relevant licenses. Take it a step further and confirm with the applicable issuing offices.
2. Are you insured?
Contractors should be insured in case something happens to your home during the repair process. Ask about their general liability insurance to make sure you’re covered. If you still have doubts, you can request a certificate of coverage. Be sure to ask about the limits of the policy. An underinsured contractor can leave a wide financial gap if the policy amount is not in line with the value of your property.
3. What is your experience level?
Ask the contractor about their experience with similar repair projects. They should be able to provide an in-depth answer about their past work, including photos and case details.
4. Do You Perform the Work Yourself?
Many contractors outsource the repair work to third-party providers. If you painstakingly research a contractor’s qualifications, you want to know that they will provide the work themselves. If they sub-contract to others, the contractor should be transparent about the identity, quality, and vetting process of their outsourced providers.
Using a contractor that performs their own work can increase the level of understanding, communication, and timeliness of the project. Asking prospective roofers whether they provide the work themselves will quickly narrow the field for your search.
5. Do you check ventilation?
Contractors should be able to explain their procedures for ventilation inspections, including inspecting the attic to determine whether ventilation is a contributing factor. Improper ventilation can cause shingle damage, mold, wood rot, and other issues.
6. What is included in a roof inspection?
Roof inspections should be thorough and include not only an assessment for recent damage but also an inspection of the attic, chimney, gutters, siding, flashing, and other related structures. Experienced contractors conduct full inspections to make sure their repair job is comprehensive.
7. Do you offer roof replacement warranty coverage?
When repairing a roof, homeowners should know the difference between the product manufacturer’s warranty on roofing products and the contractor’s warranty coverage on their work. Always ask for an explanation of the difference between the warranties, including who your point of contact will be in the event of an issue.
8. Can you upgrade my roof?
While many contractors repair and replace existing structures, some offer free material upgrades. Ask your prospective contractor whether upgrade opportunities factor into their inspection process and the rates they charge to install improvements.
9. Do you have a reference list?
sContractors should offer a list of references that demonstrate their track record with similar projects. Don’t be afraid to ask about their experience in detail to make sure they have the skills to complete your repairs. Contact their references and conduct online research for their reviews.
Conduct Due Diligence in Selecting Your Roofing Contractor
When hiring a contractor to repair or replace your roof, you have a lot to consider. Your prospective contractor’s experience level, licenses, inspection process, warranty coverage, and more will significantly impact the success and cost-effectiveness of your roof repairs. Having a contractor that performs their own work, and does not subcontract it out, is more likely to stand behind the quality of your project.
Contractors that are licensed and customer-focused welcome their future clients’ questions. Often, the way they answer your questions is as important as the questions themselves, underscoring the importance of being open with your potential contractors about your expectations, budget, and needs.
Contact a Professional Insurance Restoration Contractor for Answers
At Expert Exteriors, our team puts the customer first when assessing their homes for roof, siding, and gutter repairs or replacements, and we do not subcontract our work. Throughout your project, you will have a direct point of contact at Expert Exteriors.
This includes our assurance that our work will always be provided by our in-house team. Additionally, if your insurer fails to cover everything, we collaborate with insurance adjusters to strengthen your claim and offer competitive quotes for the remaining repairs.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you get the repairs and replacements your home needs. Feel free to ask us questions about our methods, learn about our experience, and confirm our documentation. At Expert Exteriors, client trust is our top priority.
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