Having trouble finding the right roofer? Whether you’re installing a new roof or having your roof redone, it’s important to choose a roofing contractor carefully. Even if you think you’re meeting with a contractor who seems knowledgeable, you need to make sure you’re dealing with the right person.
Are you having trouble finding the right fit? Wondering how and what criteria to use to make your decision? Here are a few tips to help you find and choose the right (and even the best!) roofing contractor.
Tip #1: Get quotes from several roofing contractors
We stress the importance of soliciting several roofing contractors and requesting quotes from all of them. In fact, it’s one of the first things you should do when thinking about having your roof installed, repaired or renovated.
In fact,
the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) recommends that you compare a minimum of
3 quotes to ensure that you make an informed choice. You will be happy to know
that many roofers are willing to offer free quotes.
When looking for the right roofer, there are a few things you should look for
on each quote you receive:
- Worksite security measures
- Waste management
- Warranty on the work
- RBQ license number
- Liability insurance
- Certifications (certified installer)
- Workforce certification
- Associations (CAA, etc.)
You should also consider who can offer you the best quality/price ratio based on the materials (asphalt shingles, roofing membranes, plywood sheets, roof vents, insulation, etc.) and the time frame. You shouldn’t necessarily go with the roofer who offers you the best price. Otherwise, you could end up with a leaky roof in the next few weeks and have to pay a much higher total amount than you would have paid if you had chosen a higher, but fair, bid. Also, keep in mind that even the best and most expensive materials will not be effective if they are installed by unqualified people.
Tip #2: Check with the Office of Consumer Protection
Think you’ve found the right person? The perfect roofer for all your roofing installation and renovation projects? Take a moment before you get carried away.
Try to find out if there are any complaints about the contractor. How can you do this? First, check with the Office of Consumer Protection. This is an excellent way to confirm whether or not you have found the right professional roofer. Also, be sure to verify their RBQ license number online, as some dubious companies may use a false number.
You can also check to see if the roofer you are considering hiring is recommended by CAA Habitation. This certification confirms that a roofer is a cut above the rest in the roofing industry in terms of customer satisfaction with the quality of work performed by their employees, good communication and adherence to deadlines. In other words, a certified roofer will generally work even harder to maintain their status.
Tip #3: Ask your roofer for references
These days, reputation is a must in every field. This is also true for the roofing business. But how do you find this information? It’s easy, if your roofer’s work has never been judged competent by a recognized organization, we simply recommend that you ask your prospective roofer to provide customer references (references that aren’t outdated).
Your roofer should also be able to show you some of their roofing work that shares similarities with the project you want them to handle. This is because some roofing contractors are going to be very skilled at pitched roof repairs, but that doesn’t mean they have the experience to offer quality flat roof services.
You can also check for customer reviews online. Positive testimonials can put your mind at ease before you hire a roofer.
To follow up on the second tip mentioned, also make sure that once you find the right roofer, they will deliver on their promises.
Tip #4: How to make sure you hire a specialist and not a general roofer
The majority of the best roofers are specialists, not generalists. While there are many different types of contractors, we recommend looking for those who focus on roofing (installation and repair), roof insulation, roof framing, tinsmithing and other aspects of roofing.
You know you’ve found the right roofer if they are a professional who is up to date on the latest advances in the field (best materials, roof ventilation, roof waterproofing systems, best installation practices, etc.). Make sure your roofer is certified in roofing systems by several manufacturers and organizations. This can make a major difference in getting the job done right.
In short, how do you find the right roofer?
Make sure you hire a contractor that will give you a good return on your investment.
Better references, better quality/price ratio, better record with the OPC (Office de la protection du consommateur); we suggest that you look at the many aspects that can influence your decision. And be strict! A poorly installed or badly renovated roof can cause you many problems and additional expenses.
Still haven’t found the roofer of your dreams? Contact our technical consultants now for a quote and you’ll see why Duro-Toit is THE leading roofing company in the greater Montreal area!
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