Choosing the right roofing contractor can be a daunting task. Educating yourself about what to look for and what questions to ask will ensure that you get the best person for the job. Of course you are looking for someone trustworthy and professional, but how do we know this?

The first step is to get local referrals. Choosing a local roofing contractor makes sense in terms of their familiarity with local code regulations and rules. Check to see if they have the applicable business licenses required for your area. They will also be aware of what materials will work best in your area, and be familiar with local suppliers and crews. In addition, checking out local referrals will give you a first-hand look at other homeowners' experience with specific contractors.

A legitimate business will be able to supply:

• Their tax identification number
• Business address
• Business website or email address
• Contact phone number
• Proof of insurance; including worker's compensation and liability coverage

Find a contractor with manufacturer designations which are awarded to contractors who pass certain requirements. Some manufacturers' requirements are more stringent than others, but this is something to look for when choosing a roofing contractor.

Check their score with the Better Business Bureau. If the roofing contractor does not exist on BBB.org, it might be wise to steer clear of this company. Maintaining satisfactory ratings with the BBB may be a requirement to retain certification or designation with some manufacturers.

Get an extensive warranty that includes coverage of the contractor's workmanship. Contractors should offer different shingle options. Getting the lowest price could mean that down the road the homeowner will spend money to fix workmanship problems not covered under insurance. The homeowner should be familiar with the warranty information and be aware of any actions or exceptions that may void the warranty.

Roofing contractors should be able to supply a detailed proposal or contract in writing which provide specific details regarding your job. This should include the length of time the project should take, daily start and end times, number of people working on the job, roofing materials to be used, safety procedures to be followed, complete cost of the project and payment schedule, plus clean-up procedures.

Choosing an experienced, professional roofing contraction is important, but need not be difficult. Knowing what questions to ask, being knowledgeable about the materials used in your area, and checking referrals will save you time, money and stress now and in the future.

Harper Roofing> is a trusted named in the Charleston, South Carolina area since 2009. Harper> uses quality Owens Corning materials, and have achieved the rating of a Premier Owens Corning Installer. We offer a thorough roof inspection free> of charge. We will keep the appointment on time and will supply a honest roof assessment.
Check out the testimonials> from past customers on our website. Harper Roofing> has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and 5 star ratings on Facebook> and Houzz>.
If you found this information helpful, click "like" or "Share" below and post this to your social media pages. Your "Likes" and "Shares" help friends and neighbors find the information they need.

We are happy for you to re-publish this article on your website or in your company newsletter with credit to Harper Roofing as the author and a link to our website http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/. The URL for this article is http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/harper-roofing-charleston-blog/need-a-roofing-contractor. Email us with any questions.

​Sources cited:
www.blog.gaf.com
www.wikihow.com
www.angieslist.com
www.huffingtonpost.com

Recently a local homeowner was left with a "rainforest" in his living room, all from having his roof replaced. The homeowner needed a kiddie pool to catch the falling ceiling and rain water. According to News 2, the company that had replaced the homeowner's roof had false email and physical addresses and would not return phone calls.
Local roofer, Chris Harper says having that license means the contractor passed a background, a credit check, and has solid references. He also said having a physical address and website helps legitimize companies on some level.

Harper says before hiring a contractor, ask these questions:

• What materials will they use?
• What sort of insurance coverage do they offer?
• How does the company handle gutters and other components of the roof?
• What wind speed can the roof withstand?

Another local contractor recommends that homeowners secure three separate quotes and compare their quotes. Homeowners need to educate themselves on the scope of their roofing work.

According the angieslist.com, these are Six Tips For Choosing A Roofing Contractor:​

1. INSURANCE: Checking to see that your contractor has valid worker's compensation and liability insurance is a must. Don't take their word for it; ask to see their certificates or even call the insurance carrier to confirm.
2. LOCAL COMPANY: Choose a company that is local, and has an established business address. A five-year warranty on a roof is worthless if the company moves or vanishes. Check the company's references and reputation in the community.
3. PRICING: Using the lowest price quoted as your sole criteria can be a mistake. In many cases, you get what you pay for, and homeowners may end up spending more money to repair problems which might have been covered under a reputable company's workmanship guarantee. Competent roofing contractors with skilled workers and proper insurance have to maintain pricing to cover this overhead.
4. STORM CHASERS: Avoid storm chasers. These "we're in your neighborhood" canvassing and selling roofers may try to convince you that you have storm damage and want a signed letter of intent. Always wait to see the contracts and look for a referral from a satisfied client in the area. Check to see if they are operating under the proper local licensing and and permitting laws.
5. DETAILS IN WRITING: In the case of having a roof replaced, the devil is in the details. You are the homeowner and should maintain control. Before paying, make sure you are satisfied with the completed work. The terms of payment should have been set prior to the start of work and agreed upon by both parties. This should include job duration, size of crew, correct materials, properly vented attic space, and clean up.
6. COMMUNICATION: A reputable roofing contractor will return calls in a timely manner, will send documentation when asked, and will follow through on details. If this is not happening, contact the company representative with your concerns. Don't be afraid to walk away if your concerns are not addressed in a satisfactory manner.

Finding the best roofing contractor can be challenging and time-consuming. However, you will save time, money, and headaches by taking the time to follow these steps. You can then feel confident in your decision. For more information about this topic, check out this recent interview> with Chris Harper from Harper Roofing and hear his tips on how to find a reliable contractor. 

Harper Roofing www.harperroofingcharleston.com/ is a local company, owned by Charleston native, Chris Harper. They offer a free roof inspection and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and a 5 star rating on Houzz. They have been called the "best roofing company in Charleston." Check out their testimonials> from past customers online.

If you found this information helpful click "Like" or "Share" below and post this to your social media pages. Your "Likes" and "Shares" help others like you find the information they need.
We are happy for you to re-publish this article on your website or in your company newsletter with credit to, Harper Roofing Charleston, as the author and a link to our website http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/. The URL for this article is http://www.harperroofingcharleston.com/blog/choosing-the-right-roofing-contractor. Email us with any questions.