Importance of Choosing a Licensed and Insured Roofing Contractor

Licensed roofers can provide product warranties, workmanship guarantees, and insurance. Liability insurance and workers’ compensation protect you in case of a mishap.

Licensed contractors take their certification seriously and want to keep it. This means they take all necessary precautions to ensure a high-quality project.

Legality

Some states and localities require contractors to hold a license, but even where it’s not mandatory, a roofer with one should be willing to show you their certificate. This shows that they take their work seriously and have taken the time to prove their credentials as a professional contractor.

The licensing process also demonstrates that roofers know how to install and repair a roof properly. This ensures that the work performed on your roof meets local coding requirements and will be up to industry standards.

A licensed roofing contractor Bellevue is likely to have a written contract with you that clearly defines the scope of the project and the responsibilities of both parties. This can help avoid any issues or disputes down the road. They may also be able to offer extended warranties and guarantees on their workmanship that unlicensed roofers cannot. This is a sign of confidence in their skills and a commitment to resolving problems quickly.

Reputation

When selecting a roofing contractor to work on your roof, reputation is an important consideration. A possible roofer’s name may be looked up online to check what reviews they have received, but it’s also crucial to ask around. Ask friends and neighbors who recently had their roofs repaired or rebuilt if they were satisfied with the work. Additionally, you may get a list of references from past clients who have had roofing work done.

Be wary of a roofing company that asks for payment upfront before beginning work. These businesses may be attempting to steal your money or do substandard work. This safety measure safeguards you if the roofer fails to finish the project or goes out of business. The bond maximum is determined by state laws and the amount of a roofing company’s work.

Safety

Being a homeowner, you are concerned about the condition of your home. This is particularly true of your roof, which shields your loved ones and possessions from the elements. You must confirm that your contractor has sufficient insurance because of this.

This includes having adequate general liability insurance, workman’s comp, and company vehicle coverage. It would be beneficial if you also requested to examine any subcontractors’ insurance documentation.

Additionally, a licensed and insured roofing contractor will be able to provide you with bonding coverage, product warranties, workmanship guarantees, and licensing information for your state. This will help to protect you from rogue contractors who may try to cut corners by using poor materials or charging high prices for their services. A licensed and insured roofing contractor cannot require full or partial payment upfront, which can be a sign of an unethical business practice.

Insurance

A roofing contractor you hire must have insurance policies to cover any damage or injury caused during the project. If a roofer does not carry workers’ compensation, general liability, and commercial auto insurance, you should find another contractor to work with.

A roofer’s general liability policy should have a minimum of $1 million in coverage for property damage, bodily injury, and legal costs. In addition, a roofer should have an errors and omissions policy to protect themselves in case they make a mistake while on the job or miss something in their work that causes a customer financial harm.

If a roofer says they are insured, ask them to provide you with a copy of their insurance certificate. You can also check their status online. Ensure they meet the state licensing and GAF Master Elite certification requirements in your area. They should also have a written warranty that covers the materials and workmanship for your peace of mind.