The Top 5 Must-Do’s
Make sure to choose a legitimate roofing company.
This is an important purchase for your home. Don’t be shy—ask for the business address (not just a P.O. Box number), website, and contact phone number.
Get references.
Ask for past clients you can contact to find out if they were satisfied with the work done on their roof. Was their roof completed on time? Did the roofers clean up the debris once they were finished? Did the job cost what they expected to pay?
Ask to see proof of insurance, including worker’s compensation and liability coverage.
While you may be tempted to hire an unlicensed handyman to save money, they may lack proper training and licensure leaving you as the homeowner responsible if something goes wrong. Massachusetts law requires roofers to meet strict requirements to become registered. Licensed roofers in the Greater Boston area are required to carry liability insurance and workman’s compensation coverage.
Check with the Better Business Bureau.
It takes minutes to research a company on the Better Business Bureau’s website. It seems intuitive, but homeowners often overlook this resource.
Obtain a written estimate/quote and set your budget for the project.
Ask for a written estimate with details on the products and labor involved. You need more than just a vague idea or a verbal “The project should run about $____.”
Even the most carefully planned projects may run over in cost. For example, the roofer discovers mold in your walls that you were not aware of that must be addressed. For that reason, it’s a good idea to budget for 10% over the project’s cost just in case. Perhaps an old adage but it still holds true—“you are better safe than sorry.”