7 Steps to Verify a Roofing Company

Last Updated on 12/10/2023 by Matteo Lombardo

How do you check if a roofing company is legit? Choosing the right roofing company is crucial for the success and safety of your home improvement project.

Ensuring that the roofing company you hire is legitimate, experienced, and dependable is essential. This article guides you through practical steps to verify the credibility of a roofing company and what common scams to watch out for.

Key Takeaways

Step Number	Key Takeaway	Description
1	Get Recommendations	Ask friends and family for roofing company referrals to ensure trustworthiness.
2	Check Credentials and Licenses	Verify the company’s licenses and insurance to confirm legality and expertise.
3	Check Online Credibility and Reviews	Read reviews on reputable sites to gauge the company’s reputation and customer satisfaction.
4	Ask for Estimates	Get multiple estimates for a fair comparison of prices and services.
5	Warranty Check	Ensure the company provides a warranty on their work for future security.
6	Experience and Expertise	Choose a company with relevant experience and expertise for your specific roofing needs.
7	Good Communication	Opt for a company that communicates clearly and regularly for a smooth project process.
8	Beware of Common Scams	Be aware of high-pressure sales, storm chasers, large down payments, inflated damage claims, and unnecessary repairs.

#1. Get Recommendations

Finding a Framingham trustworthy roofing company is crucial when fixing or replacing your roof. A good first step is to ask people you know for recommendations. Talk to friends, family members, and neighbors who have had roofing work done recently. They can share their experiences, both good and bad, and recommend companies they trust.

Word-of-mouth suggestions are often more reliable than searching online. Why? Because people you know are likely to give honest feedback about the quality of the work, the cost, and their overall satisfaction. They can tell you if the company was easy to work with if they completed the job on time, and if they stuck to the budget.

Also, local community forums or social media groups can be good recommendation sources. People in your area can suggest local companies they have worked with. This helps you get a list of your community’s well-known and trusted roofing companies.

Remember, a company that did a great job for someone you know will likely do a good job for you, too. So, getting personal recommendations is a great starting point in your search for a reliable roofing company.

#2. Check Credentials and Licenses

It’s essential to make sure the roofing company you’re considering is properly licensed and insured. Why does this matter? A license shows that the company meets the basic requirements to do business in your area.

It means they have the necessary skills and knowledge. Insurance is as important because it protects you if something goes wrong during the roofing project.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Ask for License and Insurance: A legitimate roofing company will have no problem sharing this with you. If they hesitate or refuse, that’s a red flag.
2. Verify the License: Once you have their license number, check it with your state or local licensing agency. This step confirms that the license is valid and up-to-date.
3. Check Their Insurance: The company should have liability and worker’s compensation insurance. This protects you in case of accidents or damages during the roofing project. You can ask for proof of insurance and even call the insurance company to verify it’s current and covers roofing work.
4. Understand Local Requirements: Licensing requirements vary by state or city. Make sure you know what’s needed in your area to verify that the company meets these standards.

When you check these credentials, you’re making sure you work with a trusted roofing company that follows the law. This helps you feel secure and prevents legal or money problems.

#3. Check Online Credibility and Reviews

Online reviews and ratings are important in the digital age. They show what past customers think about a roofing company. This helps you know if the company is reliable and does good work.

Here’s how to use online reviews:

1. Visit Trusted Review Websites: Google My Business Listing, Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Angie’s List offer reviews and ratings on roofing companies. Look for companies with high ratings and positive feedback.
2. Read Through the Reviews: Respond to what people say about the company’s work quality, professionalism, and pricing. Are there many positive reviews, or do you see a pattern of complaints?
3. Check for Responses to Reviews: A company that responds professionally to positive and negative reviews shows that it cares about customer satisfaction.
4. Look at the Number and Recency of Reviews: A company with many recent, positive reviews is likely a good choice. Few or outdated reviews might be a warning sign.
5. Be Wary of Fake Reviews: Sometimes, companies might have fake reviews. Be skeptical of reviews that are overly positive or vague. Genuine reviews usually provide specific details about the customer’s experience.

Remember, no company will have a perfect record, but consistent positive feedback is a good sign. A pattern of negative reviews, especially about similar issues, should raise concerns.

#4. Ask for Estimates

Getting estimates from multiple roofing companies is a key step in choosing the right one. An estimate gives you a clear idea of your roofing project’s costs, materials, and time frame. Here’s how to approach this:

1. Request Estimates from Several Companies: Don’t settle for the first estimate you receive. It’s wise to compare prices and services from different companies. This helps you understand the average cost and options available.
2. Provide the Same Information to Each Company: When asking for estimates, give each company the same details about your roofing needs. This ensures that your comparisons are fair and based on the same criteria.
3. Review the Estimates: Look at what each estimate includes. Check for materials, labor costs, time frames, and additional services. A good estimate should be detailed and clear, leaving no room for surprises.
4. Beware of Low Estimates: Be cautious if an estimate is significantly lower than the others. It could mean the company is cutting corners with materials or labor. Remember, quality work and reliability are often worth paying a bit more.
5. Discuss the Estimate: Feel free to ask questions about the estimate. A reputable company will be transparent and willing to explain all parts of their estimate.

By comparing estimates, you get a sense of the fair price range and the professionalism and transparency of the roofing companies. This step is crucial in making an informed decision.

#5. Warranty Check

A warranty is like a safety net for your roofing project. If something goes wrong after the job is done, the roofing company will address these issues without extra costs. Here’s what you need to know about roofing warranties:

1. Ask About the Warranty: A reputable roofing company will offer a warranty on both materials and labor. Ask them about the warranty terms before hiring them. What does it cover, and for how long?
2. Understand the Warranty Coverage: There are two types of warranties – the manufacturer’s warranty on materials and the contractor’s warranty on workmanship. Make sure you understand what each warranty covers.
3. Duration of the Warranty: Check how long the warranty lasts. A longer warranty period is often a sign of confidence in the quality of work and materials.
4. Read the Fine Print: Read and understand the warranty terms. Some warranties have specific conditions or maintenance requirements.
5. Transferability of the Warranty: This is important if you plan to sell your house. Some warranties are transferable to the new owner, which can be an added selling point.
6. Ask for a Written Copy: Always get the warranty in writing. This document will be crucial if you need to claim the warranty later.

A solid warranty gives you peace of mind, knowing your investment is protected. It’s a sign

#6. Experience and Expertise

The experience and expertise of a roofing company are key factors in ensuring a high-quality roofing job. A company with a solid track record and specific expertise in the type of roofing work you need is more likely to deliver satisfactory results.

Here’s how to assess a company’s experience and expertise:

1. Look for Years of Experience: Generally, a company that has been in business for many years will likely have more experience. They’ve had time to refine their skills and learn how to handle different roofing challenges.
2. Ask About Specific Experience: If you have a special roofing project, like using unique materials or a specific style, find a company with the right experience. For instance, go for a metal roofing specialist if you want a metal roof.
3. Check Their Portfolio: Reputable roofing companies often have a portfolio of their past projects. Look at these to get an idea of the quality and variety of their work.
4. Read Testimonials: Testimonials from past customers can provide insights into the company’s expertise and customer service.
5. Ask About Training and Certifications: Find out if the company’s workers are trained and certified for the type of roofing work you need. This ensures they have the technical skills required for your project.
6. Consider Local Expertise: A local company will better understand your area’s weather conditions and building codes. This local expertise can be beneficial for your roofing project.

A company with the right experience and expertise will do well. They’ll also advise you on the best materials and methods for your roofing project.

#7. Good Communication

Good communication is crucial for a successful roofing project. It ensures that your expectations are understood and met.

A roofing company that communicates well can make the process smoother and less stressful for you. Here’s what to consider:

1. Clear Initial Conversations: From your first interaction, note how well the company communicates. Are they prompt in responding to your inquiries? Do they provide clear and detailed answers?
2. Openness to Questions: A good roofing company will welcome your questions and address your concerns. They should be willing to explain the process, materials, costs, and any other details you’re curious about.
3. Regular Updates: Choose a company that promises to keep you updated throughout the project. Regular updates on progress, any issues encountered, and changes to timelines or costs are important.
4. Clear Contracts and Documentation: Make sure all agreements, estimates, warranties, and timelines are provided in writing. This documentation is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings.
5. Post-Project Communication: Good communication shouldn’t end when the job does. The company should be available for any follow-up questions or concerns you might have after the project is completed.
6. Professionalism in Communication: A company’s communication can tell much about its professionalism. Look for a company that is respectful, polite, and professional in all their communications.

👉 A roofing company that communicates effectively can provide a smoother, more pleasant experience.

Top 5 Common Roofer Scams To Watch Out For

Awareness of common roofing scams is essential to protect yourself from being ripped off. Understanding these typical frauds can save you both money and stress. Here are the top five roofing scams to watch out for:

1. High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Some roofers use aggressive sales techniques, pressuring you to make a quick decision. They might only offer a “special discount” if you sign up immediately. This tactic often prevents you from doing proper research or getting other estimates.

2. Storm Chasers

After severe weather events, like hail storms, some fraudulent roofers, known as “storm chasers,” might appear. They often go door-to-door, offering quick repairs at low costs. These roofers usually do poor work with cheap materials and leave town quickly, making it hard for you to contact them for any follow-up repairs.

3. Large Down Payments

Be cautious of roofers who demand a large down payment before starting any work. While it’s normal for a company to request a small deposit, a significant upfront payment can be a red flag. These roofing fraudsters may take your money and never return to do the job.

4. Inflated Damage Claims

In the case of roof hail damage scams, some dishonest roofers exaggerate the extent of damage to increase their profit. They might even cause damage themselves during the inspection. Always get a second opinion if a roofer claims extensive damage, especially if your roof was fine before a recent event.

5. Unnecessary Repairs

Some roofers may suggest unnecessary repairs or replacements to increase the job’s cost. Be wary of any excessive recommendations, especially if your roof is relatively new or was recently checked.

To avoid falling victim to these scams, thoroughly research a roofing company. Check their references, look up reviews, and verify their credentials. It’s better to spend time finding a trustworthy and legitimate roofer than to rush and end up with a fraudulent one.

✅ Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Conclusion

To choose a reliable roofing company, you must be careful and know about common problems. Follow these steps to check if a company is real and be aware of roofing scams. This will keep you safe from fraud and get you a good roof.

Do thorough research, check references, and watch out for aggressive salespeople or really cheap quotes. Being informed will help you find a trustworthy roofing company for your project.