Choosing a quality roofing contractor is one of the most important aspects of building or renovating a house or a commercial property. A problem with a roof can have devastating consequences for your property; a leaking or badly insulated roof can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage.
If you’re unsure about the roofing or construction industry in general, it’s easy to run into trouble. So, take the time to sit down and do your research before you decide on whose going to conduct your asbestos removal or roof replacement.
Tips for Finding the Right Roofing Contractor
Look for Legitimacy
This is where it’s important not to trust your first impressions. Someone might seem like a legitimate roofer, but they could turn out to have no idea what they’re doing, and then you’re left with a roof that has to be torn down and replaced before you’ve even moved the furniture in.
Legitimate roofing contractors will have a business address, a phone number and an ABN. If they can’t offer any more information than a business card, it’s best to take your business elsewhere.
Experience
Look for a roofing contractor with a proven track record. Any good contractor will have a list of positive references from past clients and a folio of photos from past jobs. Don’t be afraid to contact any past clients; a good roofing contractor should be happy to pass on their details. The experience of an established roofer is also important if something goes wrong in the future, it’s more likely they’ll still be around and able to help out.
Qualifications
Roofing is not the type of industry where you want to trust the guy that taught himself, or did a bit of work for his dad when he was in school. Ask to see copies of their building or plumbing licenses, registration, and other qualifications.
Insurance
It is absolutely essential that the roofing contractor you choose has adequate insurance for the job they’re undertaking. Ask to see proof of their public liability insurance. It’s also helpful for you to know that some of the roofing job is covered by insurance if things don’t go as planned.
Good Communication
This is an underrated, but important factor in choosing a roofing contractor. You can judge a good communicator from the very first meeting. How did they answer they phone? Did they ask lots of questions? Did you have to do all the talking?
Good communication is the key to a good relationship between you and the roofing contractors, and a good relationship goes a long way towards a finished job that you’re happy with.
Price
It’s always tempting to go for the lowest quote. While no one wants to get ripped off, at the end of the day, you pay for quality. Always ask for a detailed quote that lists specific prices for each service and product. This is the best way to compare quotes and find out exactly what you’re paying for.
Purchasing Power
This is closely related to price. A big Melbourne roofing company has more chance of being able to supply you with quality products without passing the costs on to you. Big companies will have deals and partnerships with local suppliers. While it’s often assumed that smaller companies, or even single roofing contractors, mean better quality you have to remember that if you want the best products, you’ll have to bear the cost.
Research
You don’t want to go on a blind hunt for a Melbourne roofer. You have to ensure you’re informed about best practice, best materials and appropriate time frames and costs before you accept a quote. So many people fail to do the appropriate research and, as a result, they are easy targets for inflated quotes and dodgy or even unfinished jobs. The best way to choose an expert is to become an expert yourself.
Everyone needs a roof over his or her head, so take the time to choose the best Melbourne roofing contractor for the job.
Get in contact with ACR Roofing for your next domestic or commercial roofing jobs.