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Q: How do you usually go about finding a contractor? The recent rain has done quite a number on my roof. I’m what would be considered a “fresh” homeowner and haven’t really had to consider these sorts of things before. I know I could always just google it, but sifting through search results seems a bit too labor-intensive. I’m very much open to recommendations on this front; thoughts?
A: Well, first thing’s first, congratulations on becoming a homeowner. Secondly, sorry about your roof. If you haven’t already, I would recommend you check your homeowners policy to see if the damage to your roof is covered by insurance. As for finding a contractor, it’s much easier than you would think. A great resource available to the public is BBB.org’s online business directory. BBB.org allows you to access the profiles of any kind of business in your area, including roofing contractors. In addition, an even better resource for someone in your situation is BBB’s Get-A-Quote program.
The program is very simple:
- Visit BBB.org
- Select the drop-down menu and click “Get a Quote”
- Fill out the form, providing any details you have about your need or project.
- Select how you want them to contact you and provide that information.
- After you submit your request, BBB will forward your request to BBB Accredited Businesses that offer what you’re looking for.
- Businesses that offer matching services or products will contact you within 24 business hours.
Some other things to keep in mind when choosing a contractor…
Collect at least three different quotes. Once you have them, compare the quotes with each other. Something BBB would like to remind you is that the lowest bid doesn’t always equal the best bid, as the quality of the work might be affected.
Get everything in writing. Always get your estimates in writing. Do not let any work commence on the project until a contract has been written and signed. Don’t be pressured to sign before reading through the contract.
Be sure to do background checks on all potential candidates that you come across, see if you can find some information on them. Try finding reviews and/or complaints that they have received in the past on BBB.org.
Make sure that the contractor is insured, bonded and also has a current license. A contractor’s license must come from the Contractors State License Board. A contractor performing any job over $500 total must have an active license, or are otherwise obligated to tell you that they are not officially licensed, you can check cslb.ca.gov for more details.
Keep detailed records of the entire project: a copy of your contract, all receipts, payment confirmations, emails, permits, etc. Be sure to also have any verbal promises recorded as well.
For more tips on hiring a contractor, as well as information on hiring other occupations, I encourage you to visit BBB.org and browse through our constantly updating library of tips, warnings and news.
