Roofing contracters are construction professionals that can oversee the installation process, and help shepherd projects through the required permitting and inspection phases. These professionals typically perform a variety of home improvement work, including siding and window installation, in addition to roof repairs and replacements. In order to operate as a roofing contractor, contractors must meet state licensing and insurance requirements. In some states, including New York, a roofing contractor must have a general business license and be licensed to perform roof repair and replacement. Typically, roofing contractors are also insured and must disclose their insurance information in a signed contract with homeowners.
Before a homeowner hires a roofing https://roofingcliftonnj.com contractor, they should review the contractor’s website to see photos of completed roofing jobs and a list of references. It is also helpful to find out how long the roofing contractor has been in business. This will give homeowners an idea of how long they can expect the company to be around if something goes wrong with their roof.
After evaluating a roofing contractor’s website and speaking to a representative, the homeowner should ask for an estimate. The estimate should include all the cost of materials, labor and other necessary items to complete the job. The estimate should also include an explanation of any add-on services, such as leak barriers or ridge cap shingles.
The roofing contract should also include a detailed scope of work and any warranties or guarantees provided by the roofing company. For example, a roofing contractor should be sure to specify the number of nails that will be used for each shingle. A four-nail install may be sufficient for some shingles, but others require a six-nail installation to meet warranty and wind resistance specifications. This can be a significant difference in price, so the homeowner should make sure to fully understand this before signing a contract.
Roofing contractors should also provide details of any required permits, zoning notices or inspections, along with the cost of these items. The contract should also include information about workers’ compensation, bonding and insurance to absolve the homeowner of any liability in the event that a contractor does not comply with state law or local ordinances.
A homeowner should also be clear about when the roofing contractor can start on the project. A typical timeline is to have the work done within two to six weeks of signing a contract, depending on the season and whether the roofing contractor has backlogs.
Choosing the right roofing contractor is an important decision for any home or commercial property owner. While it is tempting to hire someone recommended by a friend or neighbor, this is often not the best choice. It is best to hire a professional, reputable roofing contractor who can offer a full range of services and who has a good track record. This will ensure that the work is completed properly and on time, while protecting the property owner against any unexpected problems that may arise.