Hiring a roofing contractor is a big decision. Whether you’re dealing with leaks, wear and tear, or looking to improve your home’s curb appeal, the right contractor makes all the difference. But how do you avoid common pitfalls that homeowners often fall into?
Here are eight mistakes people tend to make when hiring a roofing contractor — and how you can avoid them.
1. Not Checking for Proper Licensing and Insurance
It might sound basic, but this is one of the most overlooked steps when hiring a roofing contractor. Roofing is a high-risk job. Without proper licensing and insurance, you could be left vulnerable if something goes wrong.
Licensing ensures that the contractor meets local regulations and standards, while insurance protects you if someone gets injured on the job or if there’s damage to your property.
What to check:
- Ask for proof of both licensing and insurance.
- Verify the information with the relevant authorities if needed.
You don’t want to deal with legal issues down the line because of a lack of due diligence!
2. Choosing Based on Price Alone
It can be tempting to go with the lowest bid, especially if you’re on a tight budget. However, cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Often, low-cost contractors cut corners, use subpar materials, or lack experience. In the long run, you might end up paying more for repairs or even needing the entire job redone.
Instead of focusing solely on the price, consider the overall value the contractor brings — quality of materials, experience, and reputation all matter.
3. Not Getting a Written Estimate
Verbal agreements can quickly turn into misunderstandings. A written estimate ensures you and the contractor are on the same page about the work, the timeline, and the costs involved. Without one, you’re opening yourself up to potential disputes over extra charges or incomplete work.
Make sure the estimate includes:
- A breakdown of the costs (materials, labor, etc.)
- A timeline for project completion
- Payment terms
- Warranties for both materials and workmanship
This gives you a clear understanding of what you’re paying for and protects you if the contractor tries to change the terms mid-project.
4. Ignoring Warranties
Warranties are there for a reason — to protect your investment. Many homeowners either forget to ask about them or don’t fully understand what they cover. A good contractor should offer a warranty for both the materials and the work they perform.
Why it matters:
- Material warranties cover you if the shingles or other materials fail prematurely.
- Workmanship warranties protect you if something goes wrong due to poor installation.
Always ask about the length of the warranties, what they cover, and how you can make a claim if needed. It’s better to know upfront than to find out the hard way.
5. Not Reading Reviews and Getting References
In the digital age, reviews are your best friend. Yet, many people hire a contractor without checking their online reputation or speaking with past clients. Don’t skip this step — it can provide valuable insights into the contractor’s reliability, professionalism, and quality of work.
What to do:
- Look up reviews on trusted platforms, like Google or the Better Business Bureau.
- Ask the contractor for at least five references, and make the effort to contact them.
Pay attention to how the contractor handled previous projects, especially if there were issues that needed resolving.
6. Overlooking Experience
Experience matters, especially when it comes to something as crucial as your roof. A contractor who’s been in the industry for years is more likely to have the skills, knowledge, and resources to handle any unexpected challenges.
When discussing their experience, ask specific questions:
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they have experience with the specific type of roof or material you need?
- Can they handle unique challenges like steep slopes or skylights?
The more seasoned the contractor, the better equipped they’ll be to deliver a high-quality roof that stands the test of time.
7. Failing to Get Everything in Writing
Don’t assume that everything discussed verbally will be honored. A reputable contractor will put everything in writing, from the start date and scope of work to the payment schedule. This protects you and ensures there are no misunderstandings along the way.
Make sure the written contract includes:
- Start and finish dates
- The scope of the project
- Payment terms
- Any guarantees or warranties
- A clear process for handling any changes or additional costs
This document will serve as a reference point in case any disputes arise during the project.
8. Skipping the Roof Inspection
Some homeowners hire a contractor without fully understanding the current condition of their roof. A thorough roof inspection helps you and the contractor identify any underlying issues that may need addressing, such as rot, leaks, or structural damage. Skipping this step could lead to costlier repairs in the future.
A professional contractor should offer a roof inspection as part of the estimate process. This allows them to give you an accurate assessment of the work required and ensures there are no unpleasant surprises once the job is underway.
Avoid These Mistakes and Hire with Confidence
Hiring the right roofing contractor is about more than just getting the job done; it’s about protecting your home, your wallet, and your peace of mind. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that the contractor you choose is professional, reliable, and equipped to handle your project from start to finish.
