How to Select a Commercial Roofing Contractor

Installing a new roof is not something that happens everyday and it is an investment that should be given due consideration. Keeping in mind the technical expertise that is required for the job, it’s always best to work with a professional. After all, who can beat a professional roofing contractor when it comes to intensive training, hands-on experience, specialized knowledge, and expertise on the finer details of the job?

So now the question is, how do you select a professional roofing contractor for a commercial assignment? And how do you tell a qualified workman from one who isn’t qualified for the job? Before you sign a contract, ask yourself the following questions:

Does he have a permanent place of business?

A professional roofing contractor will have a well-established office at a permanent address, a telephone number, a business license, and a tax identification number.

Does he have sound knowledge of roof systems?

There have been tremendous changes in the roofing materials used over the last decade, and many new techniques have been introduced. A commercial roofing contractor should be aware of all the new roofing materials and application techniques currently in use in the market.

Is he affiliated with an industry organization?

Find out from your commercial roofing contractor if his company is a member of a local, state, regional or national industry association. If he is, there are better chances that he’ll be aware of the latest developments in the industry.

While these are the more important questions to consider, other questions to ask would be:

• Is he committed to providing safety and education to his workers?
• What industry training programs have the workers attended?
• Can he provide proof of insurance? And what coverage will he provide?
• Is he suitably licensed and/or bonded?
• Can he offer a warranty that covers workmanship, in addition to a manufacturer's warranty?
• What are his provisions for on-site supervision and inspection?

Once you have favorable answers to all these questions, you will be sure that you’ve landed a good commercial roofing contractor.