Are you looking for an honest roofing company in Sioux Falls? Never fear, South Dakota residents, we are here to help you know what you are looking for in a contractor.
Searching for a roofing company is often filled with anxiety and stress. Almost every day, it seems we hear horror stories about victims of fraud or scams. No one wants to be the next cautionary tale.
When disaster strikes and the worst happens, the last thing you want to do is hire the wrong contractor. To help you avoid this potentially disastrous situation, check out this list of six things you should look out for in a contractor.
We know that roofing woes can be scary, but Paramount Exteriors we strive to be a roofing company Sioux Falls residents can trust. If you need help with your roof, contact us today for a free estimate.
If all this talk about finding an honest roofing company has left you in doubt of our sincerity, hopefully, this list will help ease your concerns.
When it comes to roofing companies, honesty and integrity should always be a priority. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Fortunately, though, there are some warning signs; and some signs you have found a good one.
Let’s go over some of these signs in the following list. Take a look and happy hunting!
1. Beware of overly low estimates
When looking for the right contractor, we recommend getting a second opinion; or even a third. A proactive homeowner will seek out at least three quotes.
Remember, while it may seem like the smart choice, the lowest bid is not always the best bid.
Once you have the estimates, first check to make sure they are all seeing the same issues. If one of the companies finds problems that the others didn’t, be wary of that one.
Once you have the offers, look at what they are offering and charging. See if the quote includes clean-up. Either way, though, resist the urge to accept the lowest offer simply because it is the most economical.
Consider all your options and go with the one that makes the most sense for you and your home.
2. Always check credentials, licensing, and insurance
A reputable contractor will have coverage for all employees. Not only that, but they should be able to provide verification in the form of copies of insurance certificates.
You want to make sure your contractor provides insurance for all its employees and subcontractors. Do this to protect yourself and your family. If a worker is injured on the job site, proper insurance will protect you from a potential lawsuit.
Luckily, you have a few useful resources at your disposal. Check the National Roofing Contractors Association and the Better Business Bureau for some peace of mind.
Any roofer or contractor that is reluctant, or downright refuses, to show your proper credentials is a bit of a red flag. You should regard him or her as suspicious at best.
3. Handle your claim and pay your deductible
It is illegal in South Dakota for a roofing company to waive or pay the deductible portion of a homeowner’s insurance. A disreputable roofing company may make you this offer to entice you to sign with them.
Additionally, as a homeowner, you have the protection of a few laws concerning contracting companies. You should know what these protections are:
- Roofers are required to provide written estimates. They must obtain a signed contract before they begin work on your roof.
- You are allowed a 72 hour grace period after signing the contract to cancel without penalty.
- You are also allowed a 72 hour grace period if your insurance carrier denies your claim.
- If the project is canceled within either of these grace periods, all payments will be refunded to you.
You should be wary of any insurance company that offers to handle your insurance claim. These so-called “claim specialists” are most likely breaking the law. If a contractor is willing to break the law, they are not operating in your best interest.
4. Know your material choices
Your contractor should desire to not only do good work but complete the job to your satisfaction. A qualified contractor will go over all of your options with you.
At Paramount Exteriors, we offer almost every type of roof, including asphalt shingles, industrial and granulated metal, flat, tile, slate, and cedar shake shingles.
If your insurance company is paying for your new roof, this may be the ideal time for an upgrade. You can go for the color or style that you have been dreaming about, whatever best suits your taste.
5. Don’t give in to pressure
If a contractor tries to pressure you to sign a contract before your insurance estimate comes in, they may be untrustworthy. The company may make promises. They may say they will work with any amount the insurance company offers.
As the homeowner, you need to ensure that the right amount is agreed upon. You also need to be able to trust your contractor. Your roofing contractor should examine your roof thoroughly to be sure that the insurance adjuster didn’t miss anything.
In the end, you need to be sure that the roofing company and the insurance company are following the letter of the law.
If you are a Sioux Falls resident and you are looking for an honest roofing company, contact Paramount Exteriors. Honesty is part of our philosophy.