Undergoing any roofing project on your home is a huge undertaking. Your home’s roof serves as the upper level of protection for your household, so it must be properly functioning and free of issues. That’s why when you need roofing services such as inspections, repairs, or replacement, choosing a legit roofing company is one of the most important steps of the entire process. So, how can you check if a roofing company is legit? A legit roofing company should excel in multiple areas, which we will cover throughout this blog. When you are planning your upcoming roofing project, here are the things you need to check to determine if they are a legit roofing company:
Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance
One of the key areas to check if a roofing company is legit is proof of proper licensing and insurance. Roofing contractors may be locally or licensed at the state level, depending on your area. To check for licensing, contact your state’s Department of Professional Regulation. Some states or regions have online databases that verify a contractor’s license status using their name or license number.
The proper insurance for your roofing contractor is vital in case there are any accidents or damage during the roofing project. You can check if the roofing company is insured and bonded through the same means as licensing or by visiting their website. Roofing companies often have this information laid out on their sites, but claiming to have proper licensing and insurance isn’t enough. Make sure to take the other avenues to double-check and verify this information.
Look for Online Reviews and Ratings
One of the most telltale signs a roofing company is legit is by looking at their online reviews and ratings. You can check these on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. If the company you are prospecting has either little-to-no reviews or negative reviews, you should avoid them and go in a different direction.
On the other hand, if a company has an overwhelming amount of positive reviews, scores, and examples of great work by the reviewers, these are the signs that showcase that your roofing project will be in good hands. But don’t be fooled—if a company only has positive reviews, it may be a sign that they’re purchasing reviews or routing bad reviews before they ever get posted.
Ask for References and Past Work
Legit roofing companies often have a list of references you can contact to verify their quality of work. Don’t overlook this step; ask for and reach out to these references to verify the roofing company you are debating on hiring. You can also ask for examples of past work. Examples of quality work such as storm damage repairs can boost brand recognition for any roofing company, and they know this. Often roofing companies will display examples of their work on their website, so it wouldn’t hurt to start there.
Next, inquire about other examples of their past projects. Not only will this give you an idea of the standard of work they provide, but you may even see some work that catches your eye and changes your next roofing project for the better. Your roof is an important part of your home and household’s safety, that’s why it’s important to inspect the examples of previous work from your prospective roofing company. You never want to sign a contract for roofing work without seeing previous examples.
Check Business Credentials and Associations
Much like checking for proper licensing and insurance, you should also be checking a roofing company’s business credentials and associations. Legit roofing providers are often members of trade associations like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Companies that belong to these associations are known for meeting ethical and professional standards.
Visit the Better Business Bureau’s website to see their grade as well. If a roofing company sports a high letter grade such as an A+ from the BBB, it’s a good sign. Use online directories, search engines, and specialized websites like Angi’s List or HomeAdvisor to check for business credentials and associations. These may also be listed on the roofing company’s website, but be sure to double-check through these other means.
Evaluate Their Experience and Expertise
A huge component of a legitimate roofing company is its experience and expertise. You’ll want to ask the company how long they’ve been in business. If they have been in business for years or even decades, they’re probably worth looking into. If they have only been in business for a year or so, proceed with caution. You can also ask them about their experience with roofs like your own. If they haven’t had a ton of experience with a residential roof like yours, you’re better off choosing a company that has.
By asking questions like these, you’ll be able to evaluate the experience and expertise of your prospective roofing company so your decision becomes easier.
Assess Their Professionalism and Communication
Alongside a roofing company’s experience and expertise, you’ll also need to assess their professionalism and communication skills. Professionalism and communication from your roofing provider will give you peace of mind that your roofing project is in good hands. Here are some things you can check to assess a legit roofing company:
- Reputation and integrity
- Excellent customer support
- Warranties
- Meeting deadlines
- Has insurance
In terms of communication, if you have no idea what’s going on during your roofing project, how are you supposed to feel good about the final product? A professional roofing company will provide you with thorough communication throughout the entire process. That way, you understand what will be transpiring at your home.
In-Depth Project Details
Another thing you never want to do when committing to a roofing project is the lack of project details. Choose a roofing company that will provide you with an in-depth overview of your upcoming roofing project.
Going through with a roofing project that doesn’t have a clear outline can leave you blindsided.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When you need roofing services the most, you shouldn’t have to worry about being scammed. Unfortunately, there are plenty of scams out there that are trying to take advantage of those in a tough situation. Awareness of what these scams look like can save you from a devastating loss of money. Here are some red flags to watch for that indicate an illegitimate roofing company or service:
- Lack of workmanship warranties. Roofing companies that don’t have workmanship warranties are a clear indication that you should move in another direction.
- Cutting corners. Untrustworthy roofers may roof over damaged materials like plywood to cut corners and get the job done quickly. This puts your roof in an unfortunate position as issues will continue to persist. Get an attic inspection beforehand to see if you need plywood replacement.
- Asking you to sign a contract without all the details. Some companies may ask you to “take their word for it” rather than lay out the details of the project. This puts you at risk for substandard work, hidden costs, and unclear timelines.
- More damage than you initially believed. Roofing scammers will often create more roofing damage to get more money out of you.
Get in Touch with a Reputable Local Roofing Company
Your roof is pivotal in your home’s protection and the safety of your household. That’s why when you need repairs or replacement, making sure your local roofing company is legit is of the utmost importance. Contact your reputable and local roofing company in Massachusetts and New Hampshire such as Adam Vaillancourt Roofing. Choosing Adam Vaillancourt Roofing provides you the assurance in all of the factors you need to consider for your next roofing project.
