Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. When it comes to roof repair or replacement in North Carolina’s often unpredictable weather, quality matters.
One of our recommended roofing contractor, Chapman’s Construction, has been serving North Carolina since the
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Roofer Contractor over a “friend”
While you might be tempted to call in a handy friend for a roofing project, there are significant advantages to hiring a professional:
Expertise and Experience: Professional roofers possess the knowledge and experience to handle complex roof structures, material selection, and proper installation techniques.Licensing and Insurance: Licensed contractors carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance, protecting you from financial burdens in case of accidents.Warranties and Guarantees: Reputable roofers offer warranties on their materials and workmanship, ensuring peace of mind in the long run.Safety: Roofing can be dangerous. Professionals prioritize safety measures and have the equipment to minimize risks.
Experienced roofer like Chapman’s Construction have the expertise and experience to execute your desired roofing upgrade. Their work is licensed and insured to relive you of any worries. They even provide warranties and guarantees for their work, so that if anything goes wrong they will restore it to your fulfilment.
What are the Areas to Inspect while Hiring a Roofing Contractor?
There are a lot of criteria to consider when choosing the right roofing contractor in North Carolina.
Get an Estimate of Timeline and Cost
Timeline and Cost
Obtain detailed estimates outlining the project timeline, breaking down the expected timeframe for each stage of the project. This will help you plan accordingly and minimize disruption to your daily life. Additionally, the estimate should clearly list material costs, labor charges, any permits required, and any potential additional fees, such as waste disposal or unexpected repairs due to hidden damage. A transparent cost breakdown allows you to compare estimates accurately and avoid surprise charges later.
Verify with the State Licensing Board/ Ask for Contractor’s License
Licensing
Verify the contractor’s license with the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors [North Carolina Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning Contractors (https://nclicensing.org/)]. A valid license ensures the contractor has met the state’s requirements for education, experience, and examination.
Trade Associations
See if the contractor is a member of any professional trade associations relevant to roofing in North Carolina, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) or the North Carolina Roofing Contractors Association (NCRCA). Membership in these associations often indicates a commitment to professional standards and continuing education.
Check for a Certificate of Insurance
Insurance
Request copies of the contractor’s liability and worker’s compensation insurance certificates. Liability insurance protects you from financial responsibility in case of property damage or injuries that occur during the project. Worker’s compensation insurance ensures that the contractor’s workers are covered for any job-related injuries.
Verify Your Contractor Online
Online Reviews
Check online review platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see what past clients have to say about the contractor’s work ethic, quality, responsiveness, and professionalism. Look for reviews that mention similar projects to yours.
Check with References
Ask the contractor for a list of references and don’t hesitate to contact them to inquire about their experience with the contractor.
Build a Contract
Have a written contract drafted by a lawyer or a professional familiar with construction contracts. A well-written contract protects both you and the contractor and ensures everyone is on the same page regarding the project. Here are some key things to include in your roofing contract:
Basic Information
Names and contact details of both the homeowner and the contractor, along with the property address where the work will be done.
Scope of Work: A detailed description of the work to be completed, including the type of roof being installed, the materials to be used, the size of the roof, and any specific details about the project.
Timeline
A clear timeline for the project, including a start date and an expected completion date. The contract should also specify what happens if the project is delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.
Cost
A breakdown of the total cost of the project, including the cost of materials, labor, permits, and any other fees. The contract should also specify how payments will be made, such as a payment schedule tied to project milestones.
Permits and Inspections
Who is responsible for obtaining any necessary permits and scheduling inspections.
Dispute Resolution
A process for resolving any disputes that may arise during the project.
Warranties
A clear explanation of the warranties that are included on the materials and labor.
Termination Clauses
The conditions under which either party can terminate the contract.
Check for their Experience in the Industry
Inquire about the contractor’s experience in the roofing industry, particularly their experience with projects similar to yours.
Ask for a Portfolio and their Prior Work Experiences in Similar Projects
Ask for a portfolio showcasing their past work and the types of projects they specialize in.
Warranty and After-Work Services
Warranty
Ensure the contractor offers a comprehensive warranty on materials and workmanship.
After Work Services
Understand the contractor’s policy on addressing any post-installation issues.
Step-by-step: How to Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor?
Get Multiple Estimates: Obtain detailed estimates from at least 3-4 reputable contractors.Compare Estimates and Qualifications: Carefully compare estimates, qualifications, and references before making a decision.Schedule Inspections and Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to schedule in-person meetings to discuss the project further and ask any clarifying questions.Sign a Contract: Once you’ve chosen a contractor, sign a comprehensive written contract outlining the project details.
To avail a free consultation with our recommended roofing contractor, contact Chapman’s Construction today. They will review your house and roof for the best suggestion on the scope of the project.
How to Hire a Professional Roofer in NC?
