Roofing Quotes: Do I Find Them or Does My Insurance?

Being a homeowner is fun and rewarding! There are all sorts of perks that come along with it, like starting your own backyard garden, redecorating your family room, or finding the perfect piece of furniture that fits just right in that little nook by the kitchen. There are also the not-so-fun parts that come along with homeownership, like roofing projects. Eek! 

At RoofCrafters, one question we often hear from our beloved clients when faced with the need for roofing repairs or replacements is: who is responsible for finding the necessary quotes? Insurance? Or myself? This inquiry is a loaded one, and the answer depends on a few different factors.

Typically, I’m the straightforward-answer-kinda-gal, but the answer to this question deserves a few hundred more words than just one. So, with that being said, let’s start by reviewing roofing quote basics, whether the insurance company or the homeowner is responsible for finding them, and the best way to tackle obtaining roofing quotes if you’re on your own. Let’s get started!

What Is a Roofing Quote?

Let’s get back to the basics for a moment! A roofing quote is an estimate provided by a roofing contractor or company detailing the cost and scope of work for a roofing project. It typically includes information such as:

Scope of work: This section outlines the specific tasks and materials required for the roofing project, including any repairs, replacements, or installations.

Materials and labor costs: The quote should break down the costs associated with materials, such as shingles, flashing, underlayment, and labor costs for the roofing crew.

Timeline: The estimated start date and completion date of the project are usually included to give the customer an idea of how long the roofing work will take.

Payment terms: The quote may outline payment options, such as upfront deposits, progress payments, or full payment upon completion.

Warranty information: Some quotes may include details about warranties provided by the roofing contractor or the manufacturer of the roofing materials.

Additional services or fees: Any additional services, such as cleanup or disposal of old roofing materials, as well as any associated fees, should be clearly outlined in the quote.

Overall, a roofing quote serves as a formal document that outlines the terms and conditions of the roofing project and provides the customer with a clear understanding of the costs involved.

Insurance vs. Homeowner: Who Is Responsible for Finding the Quotes?

So, does my insurance company find the quotes for my roofing project? Or do I? In general, the responsibility for obtaining quotes for roofing work depends on the specific circumstances of the situation and the terms of the insurance policy. Let’s start with when insurance is responsible for the research!

Insurance Company

If the roofing work is being done as a result of an insurance claim, such as damage from a storm or other covered peril, the insurance company may take the lead in obtaining quotes. In this case, the homeowner typically contacts their insurance company to file a claim.

Then, the insurance adjuster assesses the damage and determines the amount the insurance company is willing to pay for repairs or replacement. The insurance company may then provide the homeowner with a list of approved contractors or require the homeowner to obtain quotes from contractors of their choice within certain guidelines.

Homeowner

If the roofing work is not covered by insurance or if the homeowner is seeking to make improvements or upgrades to their roof, then it is typically the homeowner's responsibility to find and obtain quotes from roofing contractors. Homeowners can research and contact roofing companies in their area to request quotes for the desired work. Homeowners need to obtain multiple quotes to compare prices, services, and the quality of materials offered by different contractors.

In either case, homeowners need to communicate with their insurance company and/or roofing contractors to ensure that they fully understand the process, their coverage, and any requirements or restrictions that may apply. Additionally, homeowners should thoroughly review any quotes they receive to ensure they accurately reflect the scope of work and costs associated with the roofing project.

Seeking Your Own Roofing Quotes

You’re on your own? No biggies! Seeking roofing quotes isn’t as scary as it sounds, however, it does involve several steps to ensure you find a reputable contractor who can provide quality work at a fair price. Check out these 8 steps: 

Research local roofing companies: Start by researching local roofing companies in your area. You can use online resources such as search engines, business directories, or review websites to find a list of reputable contractors.

Ask for recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues who have recently had roofing work done. Personal referrals can provide valuable insight into the quality of a contractor's work and their professionalism.

Check credentials and reviews: Before contacting any roofing companies, check their credentials, such as licenses, certifications, and insurance coverage. Additionally, read reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge their reputation and customer satisfaction.

Contact multiple contractors: Reach out to several roofing contractors to request quotes for your project. Provide them with detailed information about the scope of work, including the type of roofing material you prefer, the size of your roof, and any specific requirements or concerns you may have.

Schedule on-site inspections: Arrange for on-site inspections with each contractor so they can assess your roof's condition and provide an accurate quote. During the inspection, ask questions about their experience, the materials they recommend, and the timeline for completing the project.

Get written quotes: After the inspections, request written quotes from each contractor. Make sure the quotes include detailed information about the scope of work, materials to be used, labor costs, warranties, and any additional fees or expenses.

Compare quotes: Review and compare the quotes you receive from different contractors. Consider factors such as price, the quality of materials, the contractor's reputation, and the proposed timeline for completing the project.

Ask questions: If you have any questions or concerns about the quotes, don't hesitate to reach out to the contractors for clarification. Make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions outlined in each quote before making a decision.

Roofing Quotes: The Final Takeaway

All in all, whether your insurance company is responsible for obtaining the roofing quotes, or you’re on your own, seeking roofing quotes is a crucial step in ensuring that you find a reputable contractor who can complete your roofing project to your satisfaction. By conducting thorough research, obtaining multiple quotes, and carefully comparing the details provided by each contractor, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget.

Remember to prioritize factors such as experience, reputation, quality of materials, and warranty offerings when evaluating quotes. Clear communication and understanding of the terms outlined in the quotes and contracts are essential for a successful roofing project.

With diligence and attention to detail, you can confidently move forward with your roofing project and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is in capable hands. If your insurance company has kicked you out of the nest on your next roofing project, don’t fear - RoofCrafters is here! Be sure to hit the “Schedule an Inspection” button down below; we’d be honored to be added to the group of contractors you’re considering!