Originally posted on https://www.ghclark.com/6-questions-you-should-ask-before-hiring-a-roofer-in-annapolis/
Roofing problems are one of the biggest headaches for a homeowner.
So when you’re hiring a roofer, you need to be sure they are trustworthy. But what if you don’t know how to make sure they can be trusted?
It’s simple. Ask them these important questions before hiring them.
Originally posted on YouTube by G.H. Clark Contractors, Inc.
Here are the 6 questions you should ask before hiring a roofer in Annapolis.
1. Are you licensed to work in Annapolis, MD?
The answer you want to hear: Yes!
Why this is important: You want to make sure your roofer is licensed to work in your area. How come? Local authorities establish certain standards for all licensed contractors.
This means that when you hire a licensed contractor, you know they meet the necessary legal requirements to work on your home. They are regulated and approved.
Another benefit of hiring a licensed roofer is that you have somewhere to turn in case problems arise. For example, if something goes wrong and the roofing company is unhelpful or uninterested in solving the issue, you can reach out to Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC).
With them, you’ll be able to file an official complaint and receive the help you deserve.
You can also get in touch with the MHIC before you hire your roofer to make sure they are currently licensed and don’t have any outstanding violations.
2. What Type of Insurance Coverage Do You Have?
The answer you want to hear: We have two: workman’s compensation insurance and general liability insurance.
Why this is important: If your roofer doesn’t have insurance, this could leave you or your property very unprotected if there is an accident or damage.
So what does each of these insurances cover?
Workman’s Compensation is designed to protect you as the homeowner in case a contractor or worker is injured while working on your roof. As you know, hospital bills can be incredibly expensive. But with comprehensive workman’s compensation insurance, you won’t be held financially responsible.
General Liability Insurance covers your home in case of damage. This is insurance that will hold the roofing company financially responsible if any part of your home or property is damaged by the contractors. This will cover any repairs or replacements that are needed.
To be extra thorough, ask to see an insurance certificate for each of these before singing a roofer’s contract. This is one of the most important questions to ask a roofer.
A proper certificate will have your name and property address listed as an additional insured. This means that you’re covered.
Still not sure? Feel free to contact the insurance companies directly to verify coverage.
3. What Will You Do if Bad Weather Arises During the Job?
The answer you want to hear: We will cover the job project with tarps or plastic coverings.
Why this is important: You want to make sure your roofer is doing everything possible to protect the interior of your home.
Look, we all know that the weather predictions aren’t always right. This doesn’t matter too much, though, when your roof is perfectly covered.
But when a contractor is in the middle of replacing your roof, bad weather like rain, snow, or hail can be a complete disaster. And sometimes the sunniest of days can turn into something worse in an instant.
Your roofer should have a pre-determined plan for these moments. The biggest thing here is that your roof is covered quickly and completely. This is usually done with plastic covering or a large tarp.
Also ask what they would do if the rainy days last for a long time. Will they come back and monitor the tarp to make sure no moisture enters your home?
What if there is a lot of wind and the tarps aren’t staying where they should? Will someone come quickly to inspect and fix them?
These are all roofing questions you should ask before hiring a contractor.
4. How Long Have You Been in Business?
The answer you want to hear: We’ve been doing this for more than 5 years.
Why this is important: There are a couple reasons this matters. First, this means they have experience and are knowledgeable. They have worked on many different roof types.
This is also important because they will have a portfolio of work that you can check out. They also should have some testimonials, certifications, and reviews that you could see before signing a roofers contract.
When they have at least 5 years of experience, this usually means they have a physical address with a local phone number. These are important factors because it means they aren’t scammers.
At G.H. Clark, we have more than 27 years of experience serving Maryland families.
5. What Will You Do to Protect My Property?
The answer you want to hear: We take this very seriously. Here’s a step by step plan we will implement to make sure it’s taken care of.
Why this is important: You don’t want your roofer to damage your property. Often contractors do an inspection of the roof before starting to work. This involves going inside your home.
You want to know that they will be cautious inside your home. This also applies to your yard area. You don’t want your flowers, trees, or grass damaged by your roofer. We have invested in technology like the equipter to make sure we can get materials on and off the roof efficiently and safely while not damaging your property.
6. Will I Have a Specific Point of Contact On-Site During the Entire Process?
The answer you want to hear: Of course. Their name is…
Why this is important: Before the process begins, you will have asked a lot of important questions. But other things may come up during the installation.
You want to know that you will have someone to contact on-site throughout the entire process. Make sure they provide you with their name, phone number, and email address.
This will make the communication much simpler and help you get instant answers to your questions and concerns.
Next Steps
Now that you’ve read through these questions you should ask your roofer in Annapolis, what’s next?
It’s time to find your roofing company! Check out our roofing page to learn more about our specific process or give us a call at 410-414-7060 to schedule your free no pressure estimate.
We are here to help you get the perfect roof!