Your roof is your home’s top defense system, protecting your family and your belongings from nature’s wrath. When you’re in the market for a new roof, the last thing you want to do is make a rash decision about the roofing contractor you hire. Many people make the mistake of going with the lowest bidder; while this isn’t always a bad thing, in many cases the contractor has hired inexperienced, low-wage workers in order to make that low bid. Before hiring a company to replace your roof, make sure that they have these important documents that will certify their experience and skill.
Proof of Insurance
Working on a roof is a dangerous business, even for experienced roofing professionals. Accidents happen, and you don’t want to be held accountable if a worker is injured or your property is damaged while your roofing project is in progress. That’s why it’s so important to ask any roofing contractor that you’re considering hiring to provide proof of insurance. This is often in the form of a letter from the contractor’s insurance carrier, verifying that the roofing company’s worker’s compensation and liability plans will cover your specific project.
Local Licensing
Some roofing contractors are nothing more than storm chasers, moving from town to town looking to make a quick buck – and not worrying about the quality or longevity of their work. Making sure your contractor has a local license will help protect you from the possibility of fraud, and will allow you to hold the roofing company accountable should any problems arise due to poor workmanship.
A Current Bond
In some cases, it’s a good idea to hire a contractor that is bonded as well as licensed. A bond is for the customer’s benefit, and protects you from losing money in the event that the roofing company fails to hold up their end of the roofing contract and complete the roofing project as agreed. To get bonded, contractors have to provide a good amount of detailed information about their business and its finances. If a contractor is bonded, the likelihood that they can get away with misrepresentation is much smaller.
A Good Warranty
If you want to know if a company believes in its products and workmanship, all you have to do is look at the warranties it offers. Top contractors use quality products and have faith in their workmanship, and offer solid warranties on those products and services. Be sure to ask prospective contractors about their warranties; an honest contractor will be happy to provide the information.
Go With the Pros in Columbus
If you want a roofing company you can rely on, look no further than Muth and Company Roofing. We have completed extensive training and hold all relevant licenses, bonding and certifications for your project. With 30 years of experience, you can be sure of top-notch workmanship and a great experience all around. Don’t hesitate to contact us at (614) 682-3060 the next time you need a roof replacement or a roof or gutter repair.