Simply put – your roof makes your house a house. After all, if your house had four walls but no roof, it could provide you with little protection from the outside elements. That is why it is important to make sure you do business with a knowledgeable and reputable roofing contractor.
If you’ve making comparisons among roofing companies in your area, you’ll need to ask questions to get a better insight about what to expect. Doing so will also give you the information you need to make a more responsible purchase.
Table of Contents
What Questions to Ask Roofing Companies in Houston, Texas
Roofing companies Houston, Texas feature different products and services and follow varying protocols when working. Therefore, you need to answer specific questions to make an informed decision when choosing to re-roof your house. The following information will give you a good place to begin.
1. Are You Insured?
A reliable roofing company should have liability business insurance and worker’s compensation in place to shield a homeowner in case one of the workers gets injured or causes property damage. While worker’s comp covers employee injuries, the liability insurance kicks in if a worker damages a homeowner’s property while working.
Indeed, make it a point to ask this question. Otherwise, you might be saddled with paying for a worker’s medical expenses. It’s highly likely your homeowner’s insurance extends to this type of coverage.
2. Are You Licensed?
Roofing contractors should be licensed to perform roofing services. This information should also be up-to-date. Remember that a business license is not the same as a license for a contractor. While a business license is used for tax reasons, a contractor’s license indicates the roofer has the proper skills.
3. What Is Your Guarantee?
The guarantee or warranty for a roof usually spans over a year’s time. However, some guarantees are longer. Usually, a manufacturer’s warranty covers the roofing materials while the roofer covers the labor guarantee. As these backings represent two distinct guarantees, you’ll need to find out how long each one lasts and their cost.
4. Do You Use Subcontractors?
Some roofing companies outsource their work or use subcontractors. If the company regularly takes this approach, make sure the subcontractors have the proper insurance and licensing to perform the work. Also, ask for the names and physical addresses of the subcontractors. Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to ensure their reliability.
5. How Long Have You Been Working in the Roofing Trade?
It’s also important to check a roofing company’s background. This will help you formulate a picture as to their dependability and the kind of work they do. If the company has a lot of customer testimonials, review the comments, and also ask for examples of some of the work the company completed on similar properties.
6. Do You Provide a Breakdown of the Costs?
When it comes to choosing a roofing contractor, you also want one who will give you clear answers about the cost. Therefore, ask for an estimate in writing and a breakdown of the costs. You may help improve the accuracy of the estimate by photographing the roof damage, providing the roofing dimensions, and writing down what materials you’d prefer the roofer use.
Final Thoughts About Hiring a Roofer
You don’t have to accept the first roofer’s offer that comes across the table. Make sure you fully understand the terms of your roofing contract. By asking the above questions, you can proceed with your renovation plans and do so with added confidence.
