Things To Think About Before Hiring A Roofer

Things To Think About Before Hiring A Roofer

If you’re looking for a roofing contractor in Los Angeles, there are many things to consider before making the big decision to either replace or repair your roof. With over 80 years of rich professional experience, the Bilt-Well Roofing team has seen and shaped major trends and changes in the roofing industry across the southwestern California area. They have come up with a few critical tips for homeowners and business owners when seeking out the very best roofer in Los Angeles – and across the country.

When it’s time for you to find a great roofing contractor in Los Angeles, consider the alternatives that may be available. While there are a few great roofers in any area, there are often many roofers who offer greatly compromised service – in more ways than one. Let’s take a look.

Many smaller roofing operations work directly from a home base, led by a key contractor and supported by mere untrained laborers. Now, this may amount to a roofing repair or installation job that saves you big service fees, but it may cost you even more than your initial savings – down the road. Be sure to look up a roofing contractor’s address to make certain that they operate from a formal place of business. Roofing contractors that work from home have often invested little time, energy, money and – most of all – commitment to their business and your job. As such, a small operation like this may essentially walk away or dissolve the home-based business if contract or customer service problems arise.

Another issue to be aware of when seeking a good roofing contractor is the emergence of what is known as “virtual bidding.” Virtual bidding in the roofing industry refers to the act of contractors who make remote assessments of customer roof conditions to provide a rough cost and turnaround date. Contractors in this case will use photos taken by customers of obvious roofing issues, then create a profile to provide the estimate. Of course, this presents many problems, as only professionals can find what may seem like hidden roofing issues. Be sure that whatever company you choose for your roofing needs provides a free on-site inspection and assessment for a comprehensive estimate.

Then, there is the issue of contractor liability. While many smaller roofing outfits are led by key experienced roofers who are covered by workers compensation insurance in the event of an accident, their subcontractors often are not covered. This presents a significant liability to homeowners. Just a few years ago in 2012, fatal roofing contractor injuries from falls reached over 70 – up by 17% from the previous year. According to OSHA, “Out of 4,101 worker fatalities in private industry in the calendar year 2013, 828 or 20.2% were in construction – that is, one in five worker deaths last year were in construction. The leading causes of worker deaths on construction sites were falls or 302 of the 828.” This can cost homeowners tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal resolution fees. Sometimes, even subcontractors’ injury insurance coverage can lapse, passing the blame to the contractor and sometimes to the homeowner. Be sure to make certain that the roofing contractor you choose is covered, so you are covered!

So, we learned a little about some roofing contractors who cut corners to save time and money. Ultimately, it pays to be careful, so do your homework in advance to find just the right roofing contractor in Los Angeles for you. When choosing your next roofing contractor, make sure that they work from a formal business location; will provide a free on-site service assessment and estimate; and maintain comprehensive workers compensation insurance that let’s you breath easy while your new roof shines bright!