How to Choose a Reliable Roofing Company

That tree branch finally had enough of the summer storms, and now you need a new roof. You’d always wanted a skylight, but not like this—it’s supposed to keep the rain out.

You need a good roofer, but you’ve never done this before.

Where do you start?

Before the impromptu skylight, you had taken your roof for granted. You just didn’t realize you were until there was nothing between you and the rain.

Choosing the right roofing company is a crucial decision. With so many contractors available, it can be challenging to identify a trustworthy roofing company that delivers quality work.

Let’s break it down…

What to Look for in a Local, Trustworthy Roofing Company

Experience and Expertise

The last thing you need is a poorly fixed roof that really isn’t fixed at all.

Experience and experience matter when it comes to roofing.

A company with several years of experience in the industry is more likely to have encountered a wide range of roofing challenges and developed effective solutions. They will have the expertise to handle various roofing materials and styles, ensuring a high-quality job.

Look for a roofing company with a successful track record.

Scan through their previous projects to better understand their experience level.
Scroll through their portfolio showcasing their previous work to see if their expertise matches what you have in mind for your home.

Local Reputation

Word-of-mouth and local reputation play a significant role in identifying trustworthy roofing companies.

A well-regarded roofing company will have a strong presence in the community and will prioritize customer service. Online testimonials also provide valuable insights into the company’s reputation and customer satisfaction level.

Seek recommendations from friends, family, and neighbors who have recently had their roofs repaired or replaced.

Google the company.
Check Yelp.

Transparent Pricing and Written Contracts

A reputable roofing company will be transparent about its pricing and will provide a detailed written estimate before starting the project.

Avoid companies that give vague or verbal quotes.

They may end up charging hidden fees later. It’s hard to hold someone accountable without proof.

The estimate should outline all the costs, including…

Materials
Labor
Any Additional Charges.

A written contract is also essential to protect both parties and should include…

Project Timelines
Payment Schedules
Warranty Details

Bonus: A trustworthy roofing company with in-house financing benefits can expedite your entire experience and save your budget.

Warranties and Guarantees

Trustworthy roofing companies stand by their work and offer warranties and guarantees on the materials and labor used. A strong warranty shows that the company is confident in the quality of its work and will take responsibility for any defects that may arise after the project is completed.

Your roof is not the place to set low standards.

Ensure that the roofing company provides warranties for both the roofing materials and their installation.

Professionalism and Communication

A reliable roofing company will respond promptly to inquiries, be courteous, and provide clear answers to all your questions. They should also keep you informed throughout the roofing process, updating you on the progress and any potential issues that may arise.

They don’t ignore your messages or neglect to call you back.

Don’t risk a roofer not even showing up to start the job.

Observe the company’s professionalism and communication from the initial contact.

Licenses and Insurance

Credibility starts with the paperwork.

A reputable roofing company should possess all the necessary licenses, permits, and certifications required by the local authorities. A valid license is an indication of their compliance with building codes and regulations.

GAF Certifications

A GAF is the country’s largest roofing manufacturer.
The GAF certification criteria require all roofing companies to show proof of state licensing (where required), provide proof of insurance, and demonstrate that they are in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.
Its different qualification levels also require contractors to go through ongoing training.
Check for GAF-certified contractors near you through the GAF website.
If the roofer doesn’t have a GAF certification, you can check for a Pennsylvania contractor’s license through the Home Improvement Consumer Information Database.

Insurance Coverage

Adequate insurance coverage, including liability and worker’s compensation insurance, protects both you and the roofing company’s employees in case of accidents or damages during the project.
Imagine if a worker gets injured on your roof, and you find out the company isn’t insured. That lack of insurance could leave you liable.

Red Flags of Untrustworthy Roofing Companies

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

A roof is a big decision—it’s okay to ask questions.

A trustworthy roofing company will provide all the necessary information and give you time to make an informed choice.

Be cautious of companies that use high-pressure sales tactics to force you into making quick decisions. It’s bad customer service.

Door-to-Door Sales

Roofing companies that approach you unsolicited, especially after a severe weather event, may not have your best interests in mind.

Avoid opportunist salespeople.

Reputable companies rely on word-of-mouth and referrals rather than soliciting customers door-to-door.

No Local Address or Phone Number

A roofing company without a physical office or a local phone number may be a fly-by-night operator or a scam.

Never make a payment before you’re sure that you’re working with a certified contractor.

Always choose companies with established local addresses and contact information.

Poor Reviews and Ratings

Consistent poor ratings and unsatisfactory customer experiences are clear warnings of an untrustworthy roofing company.

Roofing horror stories are told for a reason.

Extensively research the company online to check for negative reviews and complaints.

Lack of Proper Documentation

If a roofing company hesitates to provide proof of licenses, insurance, or references, it’s a major red flag.

Make sure you’re working with a real contractor—not a DIYer looking for extra cash.

Proper documentation is crucial for verifying a company’s legitimacy and credibility.

Choose the Right Roofing Company

Investing time in researching and comparing roofing companies is a small price to pay for the safety and protection of your home and loved ones.

Look for a company with proper licensing, insurance, and a solid local reputation.

Experience, transparent pricing, and strong warranties are also essential factors to consider. Be wary of companies with questionable practices, high-pressure sales tactics, and no physical presence.

By keeping these key characteristics and red flags in mind, you can confidently choose a trustworthy roofing company that delivers excellent results and peace of mind.

Request a fast and free estimate from Martini Roofing and work with a roofer who strives for excellence in every area of service.

FAQs

What should I prioritize when choosing a roofing company?

Prioritize a company with extensive experience, a solid local reputation, transparent pricing, professional communication, and valid licenses and insurance.

These factors ensure the company is capable of delivering high-quality work and can handle any challenges your project may face.

How important are warranties and guarantees from a roofing company?

Extremely important. Warranties and guarantees on both materials and labor are signs of a trustworthy roofing company.

They show the company stands by their work and will address any future issues, providing you with long-term peace of mind.

What are the benefits of hiring a GAF-certified contractor for my roofing project?

GAF-certified contractors have met stringent criteria, including proof of state licensing, insurance, and a commitment to ongoing professional training.

Hiring a GAF-certified contractor ensures you’re working with a reputable professional who uses quality materials and adheres to the highest industry standards.

Can integrating solar panels with my new roof installation save me money?

Yes, integrating solar panels during your roof replacement can save on labor costs and ensure the roof structure is optimized for solar installation.

This approach not only enhances energy efficiency but can also qualify you for financial incentives like tax credits and rebates.

What are some red flags to watch out for when selecting a roofing company?

Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics, companies soliciting door-to-door, those without a local address or phone number, consistent poor reviews, and a lack of proper documentation.

These signs could indicate the company is unreliable or untrustworthy.

How can I verify a roofing company’s credibility and professionalism?

Check for a physical office location, ask for proof of licensing and insurance, review their portfolio of past projects, and read online reviews and testimonials.

Additionally, a personal consultation can give you a sense of their professionalism and communication style.