Choosing the right roofing contractor

Choosing the right roofing contractor for your project can be complicated and time-consuming, but a little forethought and research will make the process much smoother.

• Insist that contractors come to the site to quote prices and make sure all roofing contractors are bidding on the same specifications. Always get a written quote with a materials list.

• Call at least two or three people who have completed roofing projects similar to yours. A reputable and confident roofing contractor will provide you with a reference list. Ask to see pictures of completed projects. Weigh the responses you receive from the customer references carefully, these are the people who were so pleased with the contractor they were happy to have their name given as a reference. You may want to ask them how they heard of the contractor, or if they had referred anyone else to him. If they have, try to find the person they referred and talk to them as well as the original reference. Have your list of questions handy when you interview a reference, and take note of their answers.

• Although the bottom line is important, never compare estimates only by the overall cost to you. If you are putting in a new roof it should be free of major repairs for at least twenty five years.

• Look carefully at the amount that the roofing contractor has allocated for materials. If the estimate does not contain a detailed breakdown of materials and labour, call the contractor and ask him to submit a fresh estimate that includes a detailed breakdown. Make sure that the contractor who submitted the lowest bid is not using commodity-roofing products. While these are not necessarily bad roofing systems, the likelihood of your roof needing repairs within the next few years is higher when you use a thinner, lower-quality roofing system.

• Pay close attention to the thickness of insulation and the type of sealants that are budgeted for your roofing project. Although the cost differential is not high between a thinner insulation product and one with more layers, the quality of the product will significantly affect your heating costs after the roof is installed.

• Ask the roofing contractor how he determined the amount of material needed. You can make sure that the materials list given to you by the contractor is fairly accurate by comparing this list with an online roof calculator.

• Make sure that the contractor is insured and licensed. Be certain he carries either "Workers Compensation" or "General Liability" Insurance. Ask them to have their insurance carrier send you a copy before work begins. NEVER accept copies handed over by the contractor himself.

• Pay no more than 30% down. The payment schedule varies according to the size and scope of the project, but make sure it is spelled out in the contract. The final payment should be held back until all work is completed to your satisfaction.