Industry Tips
Hiring a Roofer
Don't be ripped off when you are looking for a roofer. Each year, roofing contractors are researched by consumers more than 2 million times through BBB; that is more than any other industry! Since roofing repairs and replacement can be quite costly, it is important to hire a contractor you can trust.
When looking to hire a roofing contractor, BBB recommends:
Start your search with trust. BBB has Business Reviews on tens of thousands of contractors (good and bad) across the US. You can also search through the Accredited Business Directory to find trustworthy roofers in your area. BBB Accredited roofers have pledged to uphold BBB's Standards of Trust and are obligated to resolve any complaints from customers.
Vet the contractor carefully. Verify that the contractor is licensed, insured and registered by the state. They should meet all state and local requirements. Ask the contractor for references from recent jobs. Confirm whether or not they will be subcontracting the job or relying on their own employees to do the work. Check the contractor's complaint history with BBB and the state Attorney General's Office.
Get at least three bids. Beware of low estimates that may potentially balloon over time or foreshadow shoddy work to come.
Recognize the red flags. Beware of contractors that use high pressure sales tactics or requires a full upfront payment. Also avoid contractors who require you to get all necessary permits for them.
Get everything in writing. Make sure all work is explained in the contract, including cleanup, waste disposal and start and completion dates. Any verbal agreements that were made should be included in the contact. Pay close attention to the payment terms, estimated price of materials and labor and any warranties or guarantees. You should also get a copy of the contractor's insurance.
Beware of Storm Chasers. In the wake of a storm, unscrupulous repair businesses will solicit work, often going door-to-door in unmarked trucks. They may require advance payment or make big promises that they won't deliver on. A common sales tactic is to tell the homeowner that their roof is severely damaged from the storm, but that their insurance company will likely cover the cost. The homeowner is then required to sign a contact and make an advance payment. The job is then never completed and the insurance company does not cover the cost.
