Key Takeaways:
1. Choosing the right roofing contractor is a critical first step in a successful roofing project.
2. Negotiate a comprehensive written agreement that includes essential terms such as work specifications, insurance coverage, and payment conditions.
3. A contractor’s reputation and the written warranty on workmanship are strong indicators of the quality of service you can expect.
4. Price should be considered in the context of the overall services offered by the contractor, given the importance of protecting your home.
5. Product warranties are determined by the manufacturer and should be carefully reviewed and understood by both the homeowner and the contractor.
When it comes to getting a new roof for your home, it’s a substantial investment, and understanding the roles of both the roofing contractor and the manufacturer is crucial. Here, I’ll guide you through the process and how to protect yourself throughout.
Protecting Yourself:
Choosing the right roofing contractor is the first step in ensuring a successful roofing project. You want a contractor who is not only competent but also capable of completing the work professionally and on time. To safeguard your interests, it’s vital to establish a comprehensive written agreement that outlines the specifics of the service to be performed and your expectations as a homeowner.
Here are the key elements to negotiate within this written job agreement:
– License and permit requirements
– Work start and completion times
– Products to be used
– Worksite appearance
– Insurance coverage for property damage
– Insurance coverage for personal injury
– Procedures for handling change orders
– Price
– Payment terms and conditions
– Exclusions
The Contractor: Reputation and Price:
An important aspect of this agreement is the written warranty on workmanship, which is generally provided by a reputable contractor. A contractor with a good reputation cares about their work and values the potential for homeowner referrals. The terms of the agreement and the contractor’s reputation are strong indicators of the quality of workmanship you can expect.
Price, of course, is always a central concern for homeowners. It’s essential to be cautious when selecting a contractor based solely on a very low price compared to other companies. Your home is a significant asset, and you’re looking for a roof that will protect it effectively. When evaluating the price, consider the overall services the contractor will provide. Only after considering all these factors should you make your decision.
The Manufacturer: Warranties:
Aside from the workmanship warranty, there’s also the product warranty, which is determined by the manufacturer and cannot be altered by either the homeowner or the contractor. It’s the joint responsibility of the contractor and the homeowner to thoroughly read and understand all the terms and conditions of the product warranty.
In summary, when embarking on a roofing project, it’s crucial to choose a competent and reputable contractor, establish a clear written agreement, and understand both the workmanship and product warranties. This approach ensures your investment in a new roof is a wise and protected one.