When it comes to protecting your Florida home, finding a reliable roofing company is crucial. Whether you’re planning a minor repair or a complete roof replacement, choosing the right contractor can save you time, stress, and money. After all, nobody wants to deal with a bad roofing experience, right?
At RoofCrafters of Florida, we completely understand how important it is to get the job done right the first time. For over 30 years, our family has been dedicated to providing high-quality roofing services to homeowners across the state. We take pride not only in our craftsmanship but also in offering some of the longest-lasting warranties in the roofing industry, even for small repairs.
Over the years, we’ve seen both good and bad contractors at work, and we’ve learned exactly what to look for in a quality roofing company. So, if you’re getting ready to hire a contractor, we’ve got you covered! Here are seven essential tips to help you choose a trustworthy roofing expert in Florida. Let’s dive right in!
1. Verify Licenses and Insurance
First things first, you want to ensure your roofing contractor is fully licensed and insured. In Florida, roofers must have the proper state and local business licenses. Additionally, they should carry adequate insurance coverage, including worker’s compensation and general liability.
Working with a licensed and insured contractor protects you as a homeowner. It’s also a sign that the company operates with a level of professionalism and accountability. At RoofCrafters, we are backed by major manufacturers like GAF and CertainTeed, which means we not only meet state requirements, but we also offer warranties on both labor and materials for your peace of mind.
Quick Tips:
- Ensure the contractor has the proper state licenses to handle permits and inspections.
- Confirm that they carry Florida insurance policies, so you’re protected in case of accidents.
- Look for contractors certified by a roofing manufacturer to access longer, more comprehensive warranties.
2. Check References and Online Reputation
Online reviews and local references can tell you a lot about a contractor’s reputation. Before you hire anyone, take a few minutes to do your homework. Google their name, check reviews on platforms like BBB and Facebook, and take a peek at their social media presence.
But here’s an important tip: Contractors usually won’t offer references for projects that went wrong. So, ask for references from jobs where issues did arise and how they were handled. A good contractor will have a solid process for addressing and resolving problems.
Quick Tips:
- Ask for references where issues occurred to see how problems were managed.
- Check reviews on multiple platforms (Google, BBB, social media).
- Don’t hesitate to “stalk” their online presence - it could save you time and money in the long run!
3. Avoid Storm Chasers and High-Pressure Sales Tactics
If a contractor shows up at your door right after a storm, be cautious. Florida is no stranger to severe weather, and out-of-town contractors, known as storm chasers, often rush in to take advantage of vulnerable homeowners. While they may offer quick fixes, these companies typically vanish as fast as they appear, leaving homeowners to deal with faulty installations.
Handwritten warranties are a red flag because if a company disappears, those promises go with them. Always take your time to do some research before making a decision. It’s worth it to hire a local company that’s going to stick around long after the storm passes.
Quick Tips:
- Be wary of door knockers who offer inspections on the spot. Don’t feel pressured to make a decision without doing your research.
- Avoid companies that move in and out of town quickly. Stick with trusted local roofers who will be there if issues arise.
4. Prioritize Safety
Roofing is a dangerous job, and you don’t want to risk anyone getting hurt on your property. Ensuring that your contractor has safety protocols in place is crucial, not just for their workers but for your peace of mind as well.
At RoofCrafters, we treat our workers like family. We take safety seriously, and we recommend asking any contractor you’re considering about their safety practices. Do they have safety standards? How do they enforce them on-site?
Quick Tips:
- Ask about the contractor’s safety standards.
- Find out what protocols are in place to protect crew members on your property.
- Listen carefully to their answers - you’ll quickly know if they prioritize safety.
5. Ensure Onsite Supervision
Roofing projects require careful supervision. Unfortunately, some companies will send out crews without a designated supervisor, leaving communication gaps. This can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and mistakes.
Make sure the roofing company you hire has someone in charge of your project, whether it’s a project manager, foreman, or crew leader. This ensures that the job is done right and that you have a direct point of contact throughout the process.
Quick Tips:
- Confirm that your project will have a dedicated supervisor.
- Having someone in charge ensures the roof system you’re paying for is installed correctly.
6. Trust Your Gut
Last but certainly not least, trust your instincts. During the contractor evaluation process, if something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. It’s important to feel confident in the company you choose to hire. Don’t rush your decision; take your time until you find a contractor who aligns with your standards and expectations.
Quick Tips:
- If the contractor can’t provide proper documentation, move on.
- If the office staff is rude or unresponsive, move on.
- If the contractor shows up late without communication, move on - punctuality and professionalism matter.
- Hire someone you genuinely feel good about working with. You deserve the best!
7. Ready to Take the Next Step?
At RoofCrafters of Florida, we believe in educating homeowners throughout the roofing process. Roofing is a significant investment, and we want you to feel informed and confident every step of the way. To make things even easier, we’ve created a hiring checklist with 10 essential questions to ask any roofing contractor.
If you’re ready to move forward, we’d love to send one of our expert estimators to your home for a professional roof inspection. We’ll walk you through your options and answer any questions you have.
You’re just one step away from securing a high-quality roof that will protect your home for years to come. Click the button below to get started!
