1. Not Getting a Written Estimate and/or Contract
This can be a big problem for you if your contractor is dishonest or not reputable. Do not be tempted by a contractor who doesn’t have an address, doesn’t want a written contract and offers a discount if you pay cash. This type of underground economy transaction involves many risks and pitfalls that offset any savings to the homeowner. The best strategy is to get everything in writing including the materials, labor and what happens if anything on the job changes. This will also help you in comparing bids and making your selection.
2. Hiring an Uninsured or Unlicensed Roofing Contractor
The reasons here are simple. Your home is a very large investment and should be respected! It can be tempting to hire “handymen” to help save money, but a faulty roof can turn into an expensive nightmare. Also, always check your contractor’s insurance. If there is a problem or accident on the job, you need to know that you will not end up getting sued or bear any additional costs. The best plan here is to only hire reputable, insured, and licensed roofing professionals.
3. Not Researching Your Roofing Contractor’s Work and Reputation
While most roofing companies operating in the GTA are professional and do good work, it is a good practice to search the BBB or the Ministry of Consumers Services and the Consumer Beware List to make sure they have no unresolved complaints or things that could cause you problems. Also check with the city or town to ensure that the contractor has a valid license to work in your area.
4. Not Getting a Roofing Warranty
Choosing your roofer solely on price can be a dangerous practice, especially if you do not receive a warranty. In the short run this sounds good, but it can hurt you. To get the lowest price, some contractors use cheaper lower quality roofing materials and cut corners on labor. For the long term choose a company with good price, good materials and above all a GOOD WARRANTY. It can end up saving you a bundle.
5. Not Getting a Detailed Construction Schedule
This is a huge mistake! You need to get a schedule in place so that payments can be made accordingly. If you pay upfront, you have no leverage to get your job completed and they could simply take your money and not do the job. The best strategy is to create a payment plan that has some money down and pays out the remainder over the course of the work and final inspection.
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