If you’ll be booking roof repair, roof replacement, or another roofing project soon, it’s time to start the process of hiring a roofing contractor. But finding a reputable one isn’t always a straightforward process, and there are plenty of pitfalls you can fall into.

As the region’s top experts in roofing repair, replacement, and Harford County storm damage restoration, ALP Roofing knows what homeowners are — and aren’t — looking for. The best way to ensure you can truly rely on your roofing company is to stick with a team that can confidently answer these seven questions!

Are You Licensed & Insured?

Every reliable roofing company should be insured in the state they’re working in. They should also carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance in order to protect contractors, your property, and YOU from any harm or damage that could occur during the project. If the roofing repair company you’re considering can’t give you a straightforward answer regarding licensure or insurance, it’s time to choose someone else for the job.

Do You Offer Estimates?

Investing in a new roof is a big deal, so you should shop around to find a price that fits your budget. Don’t be afraid to consult several companies to get a quote for your roofing project, but keep this in mind, too: if a roofing contractor’s price tag seems “too good to be true,” it often is. It is a good sign if a company offers free estimates — but don’t choose the cheapest option on the list simply for the sake of the price tag. You might end up paying a boatload of hidden fees or end up with a leaky, patchy roof that’s not installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You don’t want to start sweating every time inclement weather is in the forecast, so choose a company that provides you with peace of mind and budget-friendly pricing.

What Do Your Warranties Look Like?

One of the more little-known (but still important) questions to ask your roofing contractor is, “what’s your warranty policy?” Different companies have different warranties and guarantees for roof replacement and roof repair. Some roofers offer a warranty based on the manufacturer’s guarantees, while others have their own company-upheld policies. That’s why your best bet is to inquire about warranties on roofing material and roof installation. It saves you time and money to learn about your warranty options early on, plus you won’t run into any surprises later down the line. 

Is Financing Available?

Once you add up the cost of roofing materials, installation products, and labor time, it becomes apparent that roof replacement is a significant investment. But if you choose the right crew, getting a new, high-quality roof doesn’t have to be a huge financial burden. In order to make roof installation more affordable, some roofing companies offer financing options you can take advantage of with the click of a button. 

How Are Building Permits Handled?

If a building permit is required for your roofing project, you’ll end up doing a lot of paperwork — unless the roofing company takes care of it for you, that is. Don’t skip this important question! All of that bureaucratic red tape can be challenging to deal with if you’re trying to do things yourself, but reputable roofers can navigate the process easily.

How Will the Project Impact My Life?

Planning your life around a roofing project can be difficult unless you know what’s involved. That’s why it’s always smart to ask how the work might impact your day-to-day routine. Here are a few follow-up questions to ask:

• What does the project timeline look like?
• Should I remove furniture, objects, etc., from the affected rooms or spaces?
• Will my family and I need to leave the property? For how long?
• How will you protect my home during the installation process?
• Will you need space to park on my property?
• What’s your policy on inclement weather?
• Do you guarantee job site cleanup when the work is done?

Can You Provide Client Testimonials?

Reputation is a big deal in the roof repair industry. Your roofing company should be able to provide reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Good places to look for these reviews include social media, the company’s website, and the Better Business Bureau, but don’t be afraid to ask for testimonials directly, either. If the roofers truly stand behind the work they do, they won’t hesitate to provide plenty of reviews for you to page through.

Restore Your Roof With ALP!

Next time you need a roof or gutter replacement in Bel Air, MD, or the surrounding areas, call on ALP Roofing for the best service in the industry! Our family-owned and operated roofing company is happy to answer all of these questions and more, so reach out to us today by phone or get a free estimate online. We’re always happy to know what we can do for you!