Maintaining your roof is important to the value of your home. Most roofing contractors will provide free inspections to determine if your roof needs repair. You should expect a roofing inspector to pay close attention to roof penetrations, flashings and distress areas such as blisters, curling and cracks.
Use these guidelines to help you choose a qualified, experienced roofer:

Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, tax I.D. number and (where required) a business license.

Insist on seeing copies of the contractor's liability insurance coverage and workers' compensation certificates. Make sure the coverages are in effect through the duration of the job.

Look for a company with a proven track record that readily offers client references and a list of completed projects. Call these clients to find out whether they were satisfied.

Check to see whether the contractor is properly licensed or bonded. Call your state's licensing board for your state's specific requirements (where applicable).

Insist on a written proposal and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, including approximate starting and completion dates and payment procedures.

Check to see if the contractor is a member of any regional or national industry associations.

  • Contact your local Better Business Bureau to check for a business report or any complaints that have been filed on a contractor.

  • Have the contractor explain his or her project supervision and quality control procedures. Request the name of the person who will be in charge, how many workers will be required and the estimated completion time.

  • Carefully read and understand any roofing warranty offered and watch for provisions that would void it. The lowest bid is not always the best option. Remember, price is only one criterion for selecting a roofing contractor. Professionalism and quality workmanship also should weigh heavily in your decision.