Last Updated on: 13th April 2023, 07:46 am
Did you know that according to the Better Business Bureau, roofing contractors consistently rank among the top industries for consumer complaints? (source: BBB, 2021) That´s why it´s crucial to check the credentials of any roofing company before you hire them. In this article, we´ll explore the different ways you can verify their legitimacy and ensure you´re working with a reputable roofing contractor.
| Industry Classification | Inquiries | Rank by Inquiries |
|---|---|---|
| Roofing Contractors | 6 667 278 | 1 |
| Online Retailer | 5 719 028 | 2 |
| General Contractor | 4 388 406 | 3 |
| Plumber | 3 008 980 | 4 |
| Used Car Dealers | 2 868 496 | 5 |
| Collections Agencies | 2 640 776 | 6 |
| Heating and Air Conditioning | 2 443 533 | 7 |
| Construction Services | 2 399 942 | 8 |
| Property Management | 2 250 429 | 9 |
| Home Builders | 2 212 592 | 10 |
| Auto Repair | 1 747 656 | 11 |
| Landscape Contractors | 1 681 691 | 12 |
| Financial Services | 1 672 957 | 13 |
| New Car Dealers | 1 671 956 | 14 |
| Online Shopping | 1 646 203 | 15 |
| Insurance Companies | 1 645 372 | 16 |
| Furniture Stores | 1 555 120 | 17 |
| Electrician | 1 492 705 | 18 |
| Lawyers | 1 485 822 | 19 |
Why Check Credentials?
Avoiding Scams
By verifying the credentials of a roofing company, you can protect yourself from potential scams and unscrupulous contractors. Many consumers fall victim to these scams, leading to subpar work, financial losses, and even legal troubles.
Ensuring Quality Work
Checking credentials helps ensure that the roofing contractor you hire is qualified to perform the job. Licensed and insured contractor sare more likely to provide grade workmanship, use high-qualities materials, and adhere to industry standards and regulations.
Legal Compliance
Hiring a roofing company with proper credentials also ensures compliance with local and state regulations. Working with a licensed and insured contractor can protect you from potential legal issues and financial liabilities in case of accidents or damages during the project.
How to Check Credentials
Contractor Licenses
To check if a roofing contractor is licensed, start by visiting your state or local government´s contractor licensing website. Many states have dedicated websites or online databases for checking the license status of contractors. Use the license check tool to search the online database by company name or contractor license number. Verify the current license status, type (such as residential or commercial roofing), and any applicable education credits or requirements. Further, check for any disciplinary actions, suspensions, or revocations related to the contractor´s license, as these may indicate potential issues with theirprofessional ism or work grade.
Insurance Coverage
A reputable roofing contractor should have both general liability insurance andworkers´ compensation insurance. General liability insurance covers property damage and third-party injuries that may occur during the project, while workers´ compensation insurance covers employees´ injuries on the job. Ask for proof of insurance, such as insurance certi ficates, and verify the coverage with the insurance company directly by caling or visiting their website. Confirm that the policies are active and have adequate coverage limits to protect you from financial liability in case of accidents, injuries, or property damage during the project.
Online Reviews and Complaints
Look for online reviews and ratings on websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google. These platforms can offer valuable insights into the experiences of past customers and help you identify potential red flags.Check for any complaint history or patterns of negative feedback that may indicate poor service, unprofessionalism, or potential issues with the contractor. In addition to the BBB, you can also contact your local Office of Attorney General or Office of Economic Development for any complaint disclosure or records related to the roofing company. These organizations may have additional information on disputes, legal actions, or customer complaints that can help you make a more informed decision when choosing a roofing contractor.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Be wary ofr oofing contractors who use high-pressure sales tactics, such as aggressive sales pitches, limited-time offers, or insisting on immediate decisions. Reputablecontractors will give you time to consider your options and make an informed decision, allowing you to consult with other professionals or obtain additional quotes if necessary. High-pressure sales tactics may indicate that the contractor is more interested in making a quick sale r ather than providing grade service, and they may not be as committed to delivering satisfactory results once the project begins.
Unrealistically Low Bids
While it´s tempting to choose a contractor offering the lowest bid, be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true. In some acses, low bids may indicate that the contractor is cutting corners, using substandard materials, or providing poor workmanship, which could lead to problems in the future. To avoid such isues, always get multiple quotes from individual contractors and compare them to determine a reasonable price range for the project. This will help you better understand the market rates and identify contractors who may be underpricing their services at the expense of qualities.
Lack of Communication
A reputable roofing contractor should maintain open lines of communication throughout the project. If you find it difficult to reach the contractor, receiveinfrequent or unclear updates, or feel that your questions and concerns are not being addressed, this could be a warning sign of potential issues. Good communication is crucial to ensure that your expectations are met, any concerns are addressed promptly, and th e project proceeds smoothly. A lack of communication can lead ot misunderstandings, delays, and dissatisfaction with the final results.
Incomplete or Vague Contracts
Before agreeing to work with a roofing contractor, assure you have a comprehensive and detailed contract that outlines all aspects of the project. Be cautious of contractors who provide incomplete or vague contracts, as this may leave room for misunderstandings, scope creep, or additional costs down the line. A clear contract should include details such as project scope, materials to be used, startand completion dates, payment terms, warranty information, and any specific requirements or expectations related to the project. On top of that, be certain any verbal agreements or promises made during the negotiation process are included in the written contract to avoid confusion or disputes later on.
The Value of Due Diligence
Taking the time to check a roofing contractor´s credentials and thoroughly research their background can save you from headaches, financial loss, and potential legal troubles. By being vigilant and proactive in your search for a reputable contractor, you can ensure a smooth and scucessful roofing project. Remember, investing in due diligence now can protect you from costly mistakes and guarantee that your home receives the standard work it deserves.
