Hiring a roofing contractor is simple. Pick up your phone and dial their number. However, how do you know you are choosing a reputable roofing contractor in South Jersey? One with the skills and knowledge needed to get the job done right? You don’t. Not unless you ask some questions. Asking the right questions ensures you hire a professional who is qualified, experienced, and trustworthy. Here are the top 5 questions to ask a roofing contractor before signing the contract.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Licensing and insurance are non-negotiable when hiring a roofing contractor. In South Jersey, a licensed contractor has met state requirements, ensuring they have the knowledge and training to perform roofing work safely and effectively.
Insurance is equally important for protecting your home and finances. A reputable contractor should carry both liability insurance, which covers property damage, and workers’ compensation insurance, which covers employee injuries that may occur on your property. Without proper insurance, you could be held responsible for accidents or damage.
When interviewing contractors, don’t just take their word for it—ask for copies of their licensing and insurance certificates. Verify the documents are current and applicable to the scope of work they’ll perform.
2. Do You Provide Written Estimates and Contracts?
Professional contractors will always provide you with a detailed, written estimate. The estimate will outline the cost of the entire scope of the project, including labor, materials, permits, and additional fees, if any. You can then take the written estimate and compare it to other contractors who you are interviewing on an apples-to-apples basis. This not only allows you to choose a contractor that best suits your budget, but it allows you to weed out the ones who may be low- or high-balling you.
Keep in mind, you want to choose a contractor who provides an estimate close to the average cost of the project you need done. Do not choose the estimate that is too low, as that means the service will not meet your expectations.
Additionally, a written contract protects you and the contractor by defining the scope of work, payment terms, and timelines. It should also include warranty information, cleanup protocols, and what happens if unforeseen issues arise. Be cautious of contractors who exclude this information or refuse to provide you with a written document.
3. What Experience Do You Have With Similar Projects?
Roofing isn’t one-size-fits-all, and experience matters. Ask contractors about their experience with the specific type of roofing material or style your project requires. For example, if you have a slate roof, you’ll want to hire someone who has worked extensively with slate.
Experience with similar projects also helps ensure the contractor can handle challenges that may arise, whether it’s repairing storm damage, installing energy-efficient systems, or navigating South Jersey’s specific climate conditions.
Ask for a portfolio of completed projects and references from clients with similar roofs. An experienced contractor should readily provide examples of their work and testimonials from satisfied customers. You may also find some before and after photos on their website—which you should review thoroughly.
4. What Warranty Do You Offer?
Peace of mind comes to you in the form of warranties and satisfaction guarantees. In other words, you do not want to hire a contractor who doesn’t provide these assurances. Warranties not only protect you but your investment. There are two kinds you want to ask about:
- Material Warranty: Covers defects in the roofing materials provided by the manufacturer.
- Workmanship Warranty: Covers installation errors or issues caused by improper labor practices.
Ask contractors to explain the details of their warranties, including duration and what is covered. A quality contractor will stand behind their work and offer a comprehensive workmanship warranty. Additionally, confirm that the manufacturer’s warranty will remain valid based on the contractor’s installation practices.
By choosing a contractor who provides clear and robust warranties, you can avoid unexpected costs if something goes wrong in the future.
5. Can You Provide References or Reviews?
Reputation is one of the best indicators of a contractor’s reliability and quality of work. A reputable contractor should be able to provide a list of references from past clients who can share their experiences. Reach out to these references to ask about the contractor’s professionalism, communication, and the final results of their project.
In addition to references, check online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. Look for consistent positive feedback and pay attention to how the contractor responds to any negative reviews. This can provide valuable insight into their customer service.
Be wary of contractors who refuse to provide references or have a history of unresolved complaints. Reliable roofing contractors are proud of their work and happy to showcase it.
Looking for a Reputable Roofing Contractor in South Jersey
Now that you know the best questions to ask a roofer in South Jersey that you would like to hire, be sure to put them to good use. Ask away—and hire someone you can trust. If you are searching for a reliable roofing contractor in South Jersey, RGB Construction has you covered. We are licensed, insured, and committed to delivering exceptional service. From written estimates to industry-leading warranties, we prioritize transparency and customer satisfaction every step of the way.
Contact RGB Construction today at 856-264-9093 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you protect your home with high-quality roofing services you can trust!
