Selecting a contractor to work on your home is a big decision that most of us don’t make every day. Unfortunately, selecting the wrong contractor can result in disastrous consequences. With just a little bit of research, you can ensure you’re choosing a contractor with your best interests in mind.
What Kind Of Workmanship Warranty Do You Offer?
Contractor warranties typically cover defects in the installation of a product, and not product defects, wear and tear, or weather damage. Workmanship warranties are important because installation issues are far more common than defects in the product itself. A great warranty is an indicator that a contractor stands behind its workmanship and service.
What Safety Measures Do You Have In Place?
Roofing and exteriors work can be very dangerous if proper safety procedures aren’t followed. For the sake of your home, family, and the people working on your property, it’s a good idea to ask about the contractor’s safety track record. Some things to look for are a COR (Certificate Of Recognition), dedicated safety officers, and a consistently followed safety program.
Do You Have A Location I Can Visit?
A significant portion of the roofing and exteriors are temporary businesses operating out of the back of a truck or residential home. These contractors do not have the necessary industry experience, and cannot be relied on to address issues should they arise. Visiting a contractor’s offices will give you an idea of the size and level of commitment the company has to the industry. An office of 100+ employees isn’t going to disappear overnight.
How Long Have You Been In Business?
It takes a certain amount of experience to provide dependable work. The longer a contractor has been in business, the better. Be wary of contractors which have only been in business for a few years. More than 5 years is a good number.
What Track Record Do You Have With Insurance Companies?
In Alberta, insurance work represents a significant portion of the roofing and exteriors industry. Because insurance companies manage so many jobs each year, they have excellent knowledge of each company’s quality of work and customer service. By selecting a contractor preferred by insurance companies, you know you’re getting a company which has already been vetted by the toughest of clients.
Are You A Licensed Contractor?
Every contractor should have, at the very least, a valid and up to date business license. Certifications and memberships from additional industry organizations such as the Alberta Allied Roofing Association, Siding Contractors Association of Alberta, and shingle manufacturers can also reinforce a contractor’s reputation.
How Much General Liability Insurance Do You Have?
General liability insurance protects you in the event of an incident that damages your property. With insufficient insurance, the homeowner can be held responsible for damages. The more complicated the job, the more insurance the company should have.
Does Every Employee Have Full WCB Coverage?
It is required by Alberta law that every contractor have sufficient WCB coverage for each and every employee. Some companies still manage to do work without fulfilling this requirement, so it’s a good idea to check. -EPIC Roofing & Exteriors SPECIAL OFFER: 15% Discount for all new roofs and full-roof replacement projects to members. **Membership card must be shown to Epic Roofing & Exteriors at initial contact.