Designer’s Tips: Choosing a Roofing Contractor

5 Steps to Choosing a Roofing Contractor

By Carrie Cooper

When it comes to choosing a roofing contractor it can be overwhelming. Here are 5 steps that will help you choose what works best for you.

1. Do some research. Roofing protects your most important asset, your home. You will want a company that has done work in your area and is based in your city. Talk to your neighbors, friends, family, or your HOA. Who did they use? Would they use them again? Did they offer a warranty? Are they local? Remember many roofing companies will come into your area if a recent storm hit. They will be cheap and then be gone. Look companies up on the Better Business Bureau. Check out their websites & Google reviews. When checking out reviews, read the good ones. But also, look for the complaints. Did the business reply? Did they address the issue?

2. Make a list of roofing contractors. Ask for proof of insurance. Specifically, it is called a Certificate of Insurance. If they have one, they will have no issue sending that to you. Cross off any contractor that refuses to send it to you.

3. Ask for references. Roofing contractors should be able to provide you references. This way you can put eyes on their work. 4. Deductibles. If you are using insurance, stay away from any company that tells you they can waive your deductible. Texas legislature passed Texas Insurance Code Chapter 707.002 back in 2019. By law, it is now a violation for any contractors that does not collect the deductible involved in an insurance claim. Contractors and homeowners that violate this law can be charged with a class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in county jail and/or a fine up to $2,000.00. Contractors or homeowners will need to provide “reasonable proof” of deductible payment. Also ask yourself what they are “skipping” or “not doing” to waive my deductible. Can you trust a company that is willing to commit insurance fraud?

5. Ask what brands they use. Determine what type of roofing material you want. Confirm that the contractor you have selected is qualified to install that product. Many times, it can void your material warranty if not installed correctly. Good contractors have built relationships with the brand of their preference. They believe in the product. Be weary of a contractor that just says, “We can install whatever!”. Carrie Cooper

Chief Operations Manager - OnPoint Premier

(San Antonio & Austin) For more information, please visit onpointpremier.com