As a homeowner, it’s crucial to know how to check if a roofing company is legit before you engage their services. Ensuring you’re dealing with a reputable roofing contractor not only protects you from scams but also guarantees you get the best service. Here’s a simple guide on what to look out for:
Table of contents
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
A useful first step when determining if a roofing company is legit is to check if it’s a registered member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The BBB is a non-profit organization that accredits businesses based on their commitment to ethical business practices. The BBB’s website provides information on a company’s accreditation status, customer reviews, and any complaints lodged against it. A company with a high BBB rating is generally seen as more trustworthy and reliable.
Contractor License
In many states, roofing contractors are required to have a valid license to operate. Licensing demonstrates that a contractor has met certain industry standards and is authorized to perform roofing work. Homeowners can typically verify a contractor’s license status through their state’s online portal or by making a direct inquiry. A licensed contractor provides an additional layer of reassurance.
Insurance Verification
Roofing jobs can be risky, and accidents, though rare, can occur. For this reason, it’s crucial to ensure that a roofing contractor carries the necessary insurance coverage. This includes both liability insurance, which covers property damage, and workers’ compensation insurance, which covers worker injuries. Ask the contractor for proof of insurance. Contractors without adequate insurance can expose homeowners to potential legal and financial risks.
Website Evaluation
A well-maintained, professional-looking website can be an indication of a legitimate and reputable roofing company. The website should provide detailed information about the company’s services, areas of expertise, and contact information. It might also showcase previous projects, client testimonials, and industry awards or recognitions.
Partnership Verification
Many reputable roofing contractors partner with major brands for their roofing materials. These partnerships are a mark of credibility and often indicate a higher level of service. Check if the contractor is a registered member of any well-known brands.
If your spending some serious money for a Solar Roof, we always recommend checking to see if they’re a certified installer. Tesla offers a simple tool to check if the installer has been trained and certified.
Company Vehicles
A legitimate roofing company will often have company-branded vehicles. These vehicles should display the company’s logo, contact information, and possibly even the contractor’s license number. Companies that invest in professional branding for their vehicles are generally more trustworthy.
Contact Information Verification
Be cautious of roofing contractors that only use free email services. Established companies usually have their own domain name and email. Additionally, note whether they use an 800 number. These toll-free numbers can add credibility to a business.
Physical Location
While some contractors may operate out of their home, most reputable ones have a warehouse or yard. Be wary of contractors whose business addresses are a P.O. box or a UPS store.
Payment Terms
Before engaging a roofing contractor, ensure you fully understand their payment terms. If possible, make at least part of the payment with a credit card. This provides an additional layer of protection in case of disputes.
Door Knockers and Cold Callers
If you’re approached by a door knocker or cold caller claiming to represent a roofing company, always verify their identity by calling the company’s main number. This step can help protect you from potential scams.
These steps can’t guarantee that a roofing contractor is legit, but they’ll certainly help you steer clear of potential scams and ensure you’re dealing with a reputable company. After all, a roofing project is a significant investment, and it’s essential to entrust it to the right hands.
Use Instant Roofer to Find the Highest Rated and Best Price
Instant Roofer not only will scan your roof and provide you with an estimate. We will connect you with a contractor that has many reviews. Even with our technology we always recommend you verify contractor information before they begin work. Roof replacement can be a large investment in your home and taking a few minutes to follow some of these steps can save you time and money in the long run.