How to Find a Roofer in Southern Maryland Fast!

A new roof is a big investment, but the right one will last you decades.

If you are looking for a roofer in Southern Maryland, don’t settle for anyone less than the best.

Here is how you can be sure you are hiring a quality roofer.

1. Ask Around

Quality businesses will have lots of satisfied customers who can speak to their experience. Ask for referrals in your circle of friends and family or online communities.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Did the company complete the job within a reasonable amount of time? Were all the costs clearly explained from the beginning?

Read online reviews before you hire. If a few different customers are saying the same thing, chances are you have a good idea of what your experience will be like.

A skilled professional will complete your job on time, to code, and with no mistakes. You will want someone with experience and references to prove it.

2. Check For Insurance

Quality roofers will have workman’s compensation and liability insurance. Workman’s compensation insurance covers the employees on your property, and general liability insurance covers your actual property. Ask to see the insurance certificate, and you can call the company to confirm that it is valid.

Insurance should be provided for all employees or subcontractors. If a roofing company doesn’t have adequate insurance, litigation could ensue between the contractor and homeowner if someone gets injured on the job.

3. Check For Licensing

Most states require licenses for contractors. Your contractor can give you a copy of your license, and you can confirm it online.

General contractors are not required to have a license in Maryland. Some roofing work, however, falls under the category of Home Improvement. These require state licenses that are issued by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC.)

Roofing contractors will need to pass an exam in order to obtain the MHIC license. Find out if the type of work you are doing requires the license, and get your contractor’s license number before hiring.

4. Get It In Writing

Review your contract carefully before signing anything. A professional contractor won’t be upset that you took the time to read through it. If you have any questions, most professionals will be happy to answer them.

Before you pay, be sure that you are happy with the terms of payment. You will need to know how long the job will take, as well as the size of the crew that will be required. You need to be satisfied with the results before you pay.

Be sure to ask if there will be a charge for the estimate before you let someone come into your home. Everything that your contractor promised should be in writing.

Don’t give in to contractors who pressure you to sign a contract before an insurance company has surveyed the damage. Your contractor should thoroughly examine your home and check that your insurance company did not miss any damages.

Most contractors will ask for around one-third of the total price before they start the job. Don’t deal with a contractor who asks for the full payment upfront.

Some companies also offer warranties for new roofs. You will need contact information for support in case of an emergency.

All materials and work should come with at least five years of coverage. Your materials should get covered longer.

5. Avoid Wet Seasons

Some roofing emergencies require immediate service. In other cases, however, it is possible to wait until the weather is optimal to do the work.

If possible, avoid scheduling roofing work during rainy or snowy seasons. A wet or icy roof presents a safety hazard. A professional roofing company will be able to recommend the best time to complete your project.

6. Find Out How Gutters Will Get Protected

Ladder stabilizers or standoffs should get used in every roofing job. Stabilizers are like big arms that rest on the roof. They keep the weight of the extension ladder off your gutters.

Without some kind of standoff or stabilizer, your guttering system could get ripped apart as your roof gets repaired. A professional company will have a plan in place for protecting your gutters.

7. Find Out How Your Landscaping Will Get Protected

Many homeowners spend top dollar on their landscaping.

Before you hire a company, find out specifically how they will protect your landscaping. Find out where the ladders will go. You will also want to make sure that old shingles and plywood won’t be tossed on bushes or shrubbery.

If an accident does occur or some of your landscaping gets damaged, find out how the company will handle the damage.

8. Go Local

The company you choose should have an established reputation in your community.

If you have a problem with your roof within the established five-year warranty period, you will want to be sure that your roofing company can come quickly to fix it.

If the company you chose to install your roof has moved, closed, or disappeared, you will end up paying for the repair. Remember that your warranty depends upon the longevity and reputation of the roofing company.

Finding A Roofer in Southern Maryland

The best roofer in southern Maryland are the professionals with excellent reputations. Check for testimonials, licensing, and insurance before you settle on a contractor. The right professional will be able to answer all of your questions and give you lots of details upfront.

For more information on professional roof installation, contact us today.

 

Roofing Contractor Prince Frederick, MD