Has your home been hit by a damaging storm? If so, your roof could be in jeopardy. Whether you think you need a few minor repairs or are interested in a full replacement, it’s important to choose the right roofing contractor for the job to ensure satisfactory results. Consider these helpful tips before you sign on the dotted line. 

Acquire Recommendations 

When choosing a roofing contractor in Columbus, the best place to start is with family and friends. Ask these trusted sources for their opinions on contractors they’ve previously hired—both good and bad. 

Online review sites and industry organizations are also great places to find recommendations and read reviews from other homeowners. Be sure to check the Better Business Bureau website for ratings, and avoid contractors who don’t hold BBB accreditation. Other helpful websites include the National Roofing Contractors Association, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. 

Check for Manufacturer Designations 

Many roofing contractors go the extra mile to obtain factory certification from leading manufacturers. For example, an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor must pass certain minimum requirements and meet stringent standards for professionalism, reliability, and craftsmanship. 

Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance Coverage 

Roofing can be a dangerous occupation, and a contractor should have worker’s compensation and liability coverage. Ask the contractor to provide a copy of their insurance certificate for validation or call their insurance agent for confirmation. 

While many states require a contractor to hold a valid roofing license, Ohio does not. However, the Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services issues licenses and registrations to contractors doing work within the city, and proper credentials are required before permits can be issued. Make sure the contractor you’ve chosen can provide a copy of their required license. 

Request a Written Contract 

To ensure that your roof repair or replacement project goes as planned, it’s important to have a detailed, written contract. At a minimum, a contract should include: 

• A Start Date and Projected Completion Date 
• A List of Materials and Labor 
• A Payment Schedule 

Don’t Feel Pressured to Sign 

If after reviewing a contract, you feel that the contractor is pressuring you to sign, it might be time to walk away. Particularly if you’re dealing with roof damage, your insurance company should estimate the damage before settling on a price and the work to be performed. A professional roofing contractor will perform a thorough inspection to ensure that the insurance adjuster didn’t overlook any damage. 

Communicate Regularly 

Good communication is key to a successful repair or roof replacement project. If you find that your calls go unanswered or are not returned promptly, this could be a sign that the contractor is too busy to take on new projects—or that your satisfaction isn’t important. If you aren’t content with their ability to communicate important details such as document requests, you might not want to commit to working with the company. 

Avoid Storm Chasers 

Last, but certainly not least, it’s imperative to avoid storm chasers. These unprofessional roofers may knock on your door after a storm and claim to be in the neighborhood checking homes for damage. If someone using this technique approaches you, immediately call your insurance agent and ask for reliable, local recommendations. Most importantly, never sign any documentation from a roofing contractor that you have not had the opportunity to research properly. 

As a reliable roofing contractor in Columbus since 2005, Universal Builders offers free consultations and estimates, thorough inspections, and award-winning roof repair and replacement services. Call us today or fill out our quick online form now to learn more about our guaranteed roofing systems and set up an appointment with one of our professional roofing contractors.