What makes a roofing company one of the best? It’s often tough to determine, especially given the number and variety of roofing businesses springing up virtually overnight. There’s a certain amount of trial and error involved when it comes to selecting a roofing business, but this doesn’t necessarily translate into wasted money or time. By spending some time researching potential roofing businesses, you can learn a great deal about what to look for in a roofer. There are five primary qualities that your roofer should possess, and here are tips to help you separate the wheat from the chaff:
Reputation. Reputable roofing companies will generally have a long list of satisfied customers. If you contact a handful of prospective roofers, ask them to speak with you about their company’s performance. Pay close attention to the stories of both sides of the story: how well the representative communicated with you and what measures were taken to ensure the job was done right. While roofing companies don’t have to blatantly lie about their ability to perform the work, they should be honest enough to give you the details, otherwise your choice could be less than honest.
Liability Insurance and Workers’ Compensation Insurance. All roofing business should carry liability insurance to protect you against accidents, such as falling objects and broken or falling nails. This is not the cheapest type of insurance by any means, but it is significantly better than the alternative, which is none at all. Make sure your potential roofing company carry this coverage, and get it from a reputable company with a solid record of winning claims and settlements.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance. If you injure yourself on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation insurance. A reliable roofing contractor should carry this insurance, even if it is not required by law in your state. It is very important for your peace of mind, so ask the roofing contractors you are considering if they carry this insurance.
General Liability Insurance. While it is an expense that is almost trivial when compared to roofing costs, it is a wise decision to have this protection in case something does happen on your home while you are working. Make sure you know the policies each company has regarding general liability insurance before you sign any contracts. You may be required to purchase additional coverage if you have a small business with employees.
Limited Liability Company (LLC). Working with a limited liability company (LLC) is a good option for most small businesses, especially if you can show potential clients that your business has fewer employees than other roofing contractors. Most states require an LLC to have a general business address, but you can also have your actual home address if you prefer. Having your business name close to your home address makes it easier for customers to remember you. You can use your LLC as a pass-through for your roofing materials and pay your expenses there. You can hire a roofing contractor to install the actual roof, pay him or her through your bank account and handle your own taxes as a sole proprietorship.