If you’re getting ready to renovate your house, then finding a reliable roofing contractor will be one of the things at the top of your To-Do list.
Hiring the right contractor for the job is vital to the success of your project.
They need to be trustworthy, experienced and a true craftsman who can work in collaboration with you to deliver the finishing touch that your renovated home is worth of.
But where to start?
How Do I find a Roofing Contractor?
One of the best ways to start the search for your roofing contractor is to ask your friends or family for recommendations.
You can also search for roofing contractors on Google, Instagram, Pinterest or Facebook and on trade quoting platforms such as Hi Pages, or through professional associations such as the Master Plumbers Association. When you’re researching, each professional contractor should be able to point you in the direction of their website or social media profile so you can give them a high-level look.
You should also ask any potential contractor for testimonials and photographs of projects they have recently completed. Make sure that they’re able to show you examples that reflect what you were thinking in terms of materials, style and finishes as this will give you an idea of what your finished product might look like.
It also helps to reassure you that the job will be done correctly.
I’ve got my Roofing Contractor shortlist. Now what?
Arrange an onsite project assessment
Once you’ve made your shortlist, you’ll want to meet each contractor onsite for r a comprehensive assessment of the project they’ll be undertaking.
Supply your contractor with working drawings
If you have working drawings of your home, make sure you provide a copy of these to your potential contractors so they have a clear idea of what they’ll be building on.
Request a written quote
It’s imperative that you get a written quote before any work is done.
The quote should tell you exactly what will happen during the building process, detail exactly how much it is going to cost, and outline the terms and conditions.
Make sure your project will be delivered at a fixed cost.
While there are occasions where costs need to be added to a project, these should only be done as agreed additions. If you have agreed additions to your project, make sure you obtain a variation to the agreement in writing before the work is undertaken, so you’ll know the budget implications of the changes you’re wanting to make.
What Should I Consider When Evaluating Roofing Quotes?
All quotes are not created equal.
In fact, roofing quotes can vary by thousands of dollars. It might be tempting to make a decision based solely on cost. But remember that problems with your installation will only become apparent after the work has been completed and your contractor has been paid. When your roof should last on average, around 20 years, you should see it as an investment in your home. Cheaper isn’t a good thing when it comes to a quality roof.
The experience of the roofing contractor
Just as all quotes are not created equal, not all roofing contractors are created equal.
Make sure you compare the experience of the contractors and their ability to complete your project to the quality you should expect.
What your roofing quote should include.
When you receive a roofing quote, it should include details such as –
- The brand of materials and fixings that will be used
- Whether scaffolding will be used
- The warranties offered
- The guarantees on workmanship
- What post-installation service is included
Be safety conscious
A quotation that includes safety scaffolding will total thousands of dollars above a quote that doesn’t.
Some unscrupulous contractors will try to get away without providing the appropriate OH&S safety measures. However, if an accident does occur on your property, you could be held liable.
You can read more about the National Code of Practice for the prevention of falls in house construction, HERE.
Compare Apples with Apples
During your onsite assessment, you should provide the roofing contractor with a clear outline of what you want included in your quotation. Asking each contractor to conform to your requirements is the best way to ensure that you’re comparing apples with apples.
If a roofing contractor suggests a variation to your requirements, discuss the reasons why. If you feel the reasons are valid, then ask all the contractors on your shortlist to add the same variations to their quotes.
Get 3 Quotes
Three apples for apples quotes are enough to be able to make a decision on the right roofing contractor for your project.
Other important considerations for choosing a roofing contractor.
Will I Need To Obtain a Permit?
You won’t need to obtain a permit for a re-roof, a roofing repair, or a roof rejuvenation. If you’re building a completely new dwelling, then a building permit is required from your local council.
What Happens Once My Roof is Complete?
A reputable roofing contractor will guarantee their workmanship and use quality materials with a long manufacturer’s warranty.
If any problem does come up for whatever reason, your roofing contractor should fix it.
Make sure that you’ll be able to reach your roofing contractor again in the future, in case any problems arise.
This is another reason to make sure that your roofing contractor has an established and professional business.
Only a licensed plumber should install your roof.
Ensure that your roofing contractor is a licensed professional.
Only a licensed plumber can insure your project and issue you with a certificate of compliance for the completed work. To check whether your roofing contractor is licensed, you can simply visit the Plumbing Industry Commission website.
In Victoria, all plumbing work with a value of $750 or more requires the contractor to supply you with a compliance certificate. The $750 value includes all labour, as well as parts and appliances, regardless of who purchases them. Only a licensed plumber can issue a compliance certificate.
A compliance certificate is the means by which a licensed plumber can self-certify that the plumbing work complies with all legislative and insurance requirements.
If you’re looking for a reliable, licensed metal roofing specialist who will support your project from start to finish, then B Anderson Roofing can help.
Contact us today for a complimentary consultation to discuss your project.
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