A guide to contractors and roofing insurance

If your contractor doesn’t have the proper roofing insurance, you could be at risk. Learn what you need to know in order to hire the right professional for your job.
The time has come to hire a roofing contractor, but hold on. Before going with the cheapest quote, there are some things to consider.

First and foremost, you want to find out if the contractor is fully covered. If not, you could be liable for accidents that occur on your property. As a general rule, you should look for a residential contractor with a $2-million liability policy. For commercial work, a $5-million policy is recommended. You also need to make sure they are up-to-date with workers’ compensation coverage.

Go ahead and ask to see the paper work, as it’s well within your right. While you’re at it, ask to see the roofing contractor’s business license.

So you’ve checked the roofing insurance policy and workers’ compensation coverage. What else do you need to know? Start by asking the following questions:

• How long have you been in business?
• Are you a member of the Better Business Bureau?
• What is your permanent address and telephone number?
• Do you employ certified journeyman roofers?
• What is your safety policy? Do you have a Certificate of Recognition (COR)?
• What professional organizations are you a member of?
• What type of warranty do you offer?

When it comes to the warranty, make sure you are getting more than what is offered by the manufacturer of the roofing materials. The actual installation should be covered as well. You should fully understand the warranty before moving forward.

You should make sure the professional you hire is actually going to do the work. Many contractors will subcontract to independents, which can greatly affect the quality of the work.

By covering your bases, you can ensure a better job and safety for your home. Do your homework, ask around. And be sure to see all the necessary insurance and licensing documentation.