Hiring the best contractor requires learning some valuable facts about a company, although it may not be
readily apparent how it can be obtained when actually it is very simple. Seven areas need to be covered in an initial meeting and questions prepared based on this. Following are those important questions that should not be forgotten at that first meeting with potential contractors.
- Project Completion Time – A reputable roofing company should prove an estimated completion time for the project and can certainly provide a starting and ending date, weather permitting. If currently working on other projects, it is important to ask if subcontractors will have to be hired for this job. Avoid hiring someone who is too busy as proper attention to this project may not be provided.
- Past Experience – Experienced contractors know how to handle any encountered as well as where to get the best, most cost-effective material in the area. Awareness of local codes and building regulations should be well know in order to guide the project as it progresses. References should always be obtained.
- Supervision – Knowing the specific person who will be in charge of the project to coordinate and supervise employees and subcontractors is important. It provides a means of contact once the job has been completed should there be any problems.
- Permits – Depending on the city, obtaining any required permits should be done by the contractor and each permit should have the roofing company’s name on the permit. This avoids any conflicts of interest and other problems related to such legal papers that could result in any avoidable delays.
- Protection of Property – It is important that surrounding property that could be affected by any roofing activity be protected at all times. If necessary, feel free to demand that appropriate protective measures be taken if it does not appear that such is happening. This allows to property both at the immediate job site as well as that of neighboring property owners.
- Project Changes – Changes can always happen once a job has begun. When this occurs, the contractor should be given a written change order to help manage the project, as it will clearly list the changes to be made as well as clearly state to both parties any additional costs that may be incurred.
- Insurance – Liability and workers’ compensation insurance is essential to cover workers involved in a project. This protects a building owner from costly medical expenses should any injuries occur at the job site. Always ask for proof of insurance and double check their validity just to be sure all information is accurate.
Remember, it is important to communicate any questions or concerns to the roofing company up front during an initial or subsequent meeting. Addressing such concerns or worries in writing will surely save both parties from any later misunderstandings. So be sure to consider all of the above elements and create a useful list to have answered during an initial meeting with a roofing contractor!