How to Find Roof Repair
Roof repair can be one of the most costly maintenance items for homeowners. While the average asphalt, wood or fiberglass roof can last 15 to 20 years, with slate and metal lasting 40 to 70 years, the average cost for repair or replacement can be $2,000 to $12,000.
Many homeowners are nervous about picking out a roofing contractor, especially with that kind of investment on the line. However, there are ways to get help in finding the roof repair you need.
Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Have the roof damage examined by your insurance company to see if it is covered by your homeowner's policy. If so, your insurance carrier can provide you with a list of reputable roofing companies, and in many cases, can choose a licensed, bonded and insured roofer for you that is within a few miles of your home.
-
2
Ask for a contractor's credentials when getting an estimate. He should be able to show you that he is currently licensed, insured and bonded, with the paperwork showing the "end date" for any of these qualifications.
-
-
3
Call your state's licensing board to verify that a contractor's license has not been revoked for any reason.
-
4
Check the roofer's reputation with the Better Business Bureau, which can be done online at BBB.org, or call your local chapter. This organization can tell you whether a contractor is a member, and if the company has resolved or outstanding complaints against it.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Friends and family may be able to give you a good recommendation for a contractor they have used.
It is always a good idea to get more than one estimate to compare prices. If the estimates are extremely different in price, you can get a third from yet another contractor to see which is more competitive.
Educate yourself on the type of roofing materials you need. Visit a home improvement store and have someone explain the various roofing materials, so that when you question a contractor, you are somewhat knowledgeable about what he plans to do for the repairs.
Do not just go with the lowest estimate; make sure you have a complete estimate by comparing several and asking the contractors to clarify any differences between them.
