How to Choose a Roofing Contractor
Choosing a roofing contractor is an important decision for any property owner. Before hiring a contractor, understand your roofing project, research potential companies, verify insurance and local requirements, compare written proposals, and look for experience with the type of roofing system your property needs.
Find an MRCA Member Roofing ContractorDo You Need a Residential or Commercial Roofing Contractor?
The type of roofing contractor you need depends on your property and project. Residential and commercial roofing projects can involve different roofing systems, materials and building-code requirements. Look for a contractor with experience that matches the type of property and roofing work you need completed.
What Does a Residential Roofing Contractor Do?
Residential contractors typically repair or replace roofing and/or siding for an existing single-family dwelling or a multiple-family dwelling of four or fewer units. They may also work for a homeowner or home builder to install a roofing system on a newly constructed residence.
What Does a Commercial Roofing Contractor Do?
Commercial contractors are responsible for projects beyond typical residential work. Commercial roofing protects commercial and institutional buildings from weather and commonly involves low-slope roofing systems, while some projects may also include large steep-slope metal or shingle applications.
Some roofing contractors perform both residential and commercial work. Clearly explain your property, roofing system and project needs when speaking with a contractor so you can determine whether the company has appropriate experience for the job.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a Roofing Contractor?
Before hiring a roofing contractor, compare more than price. Research the company, verify appropriate insurance and local requirements, review its experience, and make sure the scope of work and project expectations are provided in writing.
How Should You Research a Roofing Contractor?
Research is one of the best ways to evaluate a roofing contractor. Ask for recommendations, research companies online and compare multiple contractors. Reviews can also provide useful information about a company's professionalism, communication and previous customer experiences.
Should a Roofing Contractor Have Insurance?
Insurance is an important consideration when selecting a roofing contractor because roofing involves work at height and the potential for property damage or injuries. Ask prospective contractors about their insurance coverage before work begins.
Should You Hire a Local Roofing Contractor?
A local roofing contractor may be familiar with regional weather conditions, building practices and requirements in your area. Ask whether licensing or registration requirements apply in your municipality and whether the contractor regularly performs work in your community.
Why Does Roofing Association Membership Matter?
Professional roofing associations provide contractors with opportunities for industry education, technical resources and business development. MRCA provides educational programs, technical resources and business tools designed to help member companies strengthen their operations and stay engaged with the roofing industry.
Should You Get Multiple Roofing Estimates?
Comparing multiple bids or proposals can help you understand your options. Price should not be the only consideration. Compare the proposed scope of work, roofing materials, project details, contractor experience and other terms before making a decision.
What Should Be Included in a Roofing Proposal?
Review each proposal carefully and make sure important project details are provided in writing. The scope of work, expectations and anticipated project timeline should be clearly communicated before the roofing project begins.
How Important Is Roofing Contractor Experience?
Look for a contractor with an established track record and experience with the type of roofing system your project requires. Ask how long the company has been in business and about its experience completing comparable projects. Relevant experience can be especially important when unexpected project conditions arise.
Roofing Contractor FAQs
How do I find a roofing contractor?
Start by identifying contractors that perform the type of residential or commercial roofing work you need. Research their experience, insurance, local requirements, reputation and professional affiliations. MRCA's online member directory can also help property owners locate MRCA member roofing contractors.
Should I choose the lowest roofing estimate?
Price is one factor to consider, but the lowest estimate is not automatically the best option. Compare the scope of work, proposed materials, contractor experience, project expectations and other terms included in each roofing proposal.
What questions should I ask a roofing contractor?
Ask about the contractor's experience with your type of roofing system, insurance coverage, applicable local licensing or registration requirements, proposed scope of work, project timeline and how unexpected conditions or changes will be handled.
