How Can I Choose the Best Local Roofing Company?

When it comes to your home, you want to make sure that you are doing everything in your power to protect it. One of the most important aspects of your home is the roof. Making sure that you have a good local roofing company that you can trust is essential. A local roofing company will also help make sure that if there is ever an issue, they are nearby to address it for you.

If you are looking for a local roofing company, there are some questions you should ask to make sure you’re choosing the right company. It’s a big decision and not inexpensive, so it makes sense to take some time to find the right roofing company.

Is the roofing company licensed?

This seems basic, but never assume. Make sure you look up their name with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission and ensure they have a license in good standing. 

How long have they been in business?

It’s not to say newer roofing companies can’t be good, but local companies that have been in business a long time have experience with all the local requirements, weather issues as it pertains to needed workmanship for longevity, and which materials work best. Take advantage of their experience. 

What is the ownership structure for the roofing company?

Is it simply a branch of a national chain, a family business or locally owned and managed? A local company with deep roots in the community will likely care more about their reputation and pleasing customers. It also means the money you pay the roofing company will stay in the community and have a bigger economic impact.

What manufacturers do they work with?

This is important. Long after the work is done, the roofing materials that have been used will make the difference in maximizing the useful life of your roof. Find out what roofing material manufacturers they represent and do some independent research on those companies as well. And check to see if they are a manufacturer certified contractor as they can usually offer a greater warranty coverage period.

Can they provide related services?

If the company provides related services like gutters and siding, you may receive a better price for bundling multiple services from them. Likewise, the work could potentially be done in a consolidated manner, meaning less disruption for your family and simplifying the estimate process by working with a single company.

Do they provide free, fast estimates?

This is a good indication of customer service - how quickly do they respond to your request for an estimate? You want a company that is busy because they are successful, but is staffed well so they can respond in a timely manner.  

Is everything included in the estimate such as taxes and permits?

Is the estimate you receive let you know what it does and doesn’t include? It should be spelled out very clearly. This will help make sure you’re comparing apples to apples and aren’t going with a lower cost, only to be surprised when the final invoice is presented.

Is there a good choice of roofing materials?

Is there a good selection of colors and material options? If you have a vision for the exterior aesthetics of your home, can they meet it?

Do they act as consultants or salespeople?

Does the roofing company representative seem to hurry you to make a decision or recommend one quickly, or do they take the time to discuss your desires and options and present the pros and cons of different choices?

Are they willing to provide references?

Of course, if they provide references they will be roofing customers who are satisfied with their services, but there may still be information to be gained by asking for references and actually calling them.

Are there good reviews online?

What do others say about them? You can check with friends and family, but they may have had work done long ago, and companies change. Check for recent reviews on Google, Yelp and Facebook to see what customers are saying about the local roofing companies you’re considering.