There are many ways to find a reputable contractor to help with projects around the house. Online searches, Facebook likes, and manufacturer websites, just to name a few. But the best way to find a good contractor is through a referral from family and friends.
We agree that a personal recommendation is the best source when hiring a contractor. Most of Whirlwind Roofing’s business is by referrals from our happy, satisfied customers. Here are some things to consider when hiring a roofing company:
Get the Details: Ask your friend or family member if they actually had work done on their home and what the job entailed. A personal recommendation could come from their brother’s fiancee’s cousin or a sign they saw in the neighborhood. Make sure the work they had done is similar to your project. For instance, having a small roof leak repaired is quite different from fabricating a custom copper cupola or replacing an integrated roofing system.- Process Style: Are you a person that likes things done a certain way, or are you a free spirit that goes with the flow? Your friend may not care that their contractor left a few shingles on the ground and bruised a couple rose bushes, but you might. Your family member may be fine with scheduling a roof “whatever day works,” but you may be more comfortable with an exact day and time for installation. We recommend meeting with the contractor and discussing how the project will proceed so you aren’t surprised or disappointed as the job progresses.
- Communication: There are so many ways to communicate and we all have our preferred method, right? Your neighbor might like their contractor because they provide detailed weekly email updates, but you may prefer a quick phone call. Your friend may think it’s cool that their contractor texts them, but maybe you don’t. These are questions to ask the contractor before hiring them to ensure your communication styles align.
Dig a Little Deeper
Even though you have received a glowing recommendation from a person you trust– still verify credentials. With any important project, it’s best to do your homework:
Protect Yourself: Ask for a copy of general liability insurance and then call the insurance agent to verify coverage. Sadly, some companies obtain insurance just to get a license or registration and quit paying the bill, leaving them (and you) open to liability.- License & Registration: Verify the company is in good standing with the proper authorities such as the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board and the Kansas Attorney General. Reputable contractors must submit their qualifications, show evidence of liability insurance, provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage or exemption from coverage, and meet other criteria as specified in the RCRA. Plus, the roofing contractor must register annually. Click Here for more information and verification links.
We hope this information is helpful to you. And we hope you found us through a personal recommendation from one of our wonderful customers 🙂
Please Contact Us for more information or to schedule a complimentary meeting.
Brooke Laizure, co-owner
Xactimate 28 Certification Level 3
Founding Member National Women in Roofing
Dave Laizure, co-owner
Certified Fortified-Wise Roofer