Tips for Hiring a South Florida Roofing Contractor

The following are some general tips when hiring a South Florida roofing professional.

Make sure that the sales person actually works for the company.
A quick phone call to the company is an easy way to make sure that the person you're speaking with is an authorized agent of that company. It's a good measure to ensure that the person is a current employee.

Any reputable company will provide you with a copy of their license.
Ask the company to provide a copy of their license. Most legitimate contractors will actually have their license number printed on their business cards and company vehicles.

Ask for a copy of their insurance and workmen's compensation documentation.
Ask the company to provide a copy of their insurance certificate. General Liability insurance generally covers a contractor for accidents that occur while the contractor is working and is extremely important. If you hire an uninsured contractor and there is an accident on the job, it is possible for that contractor to hold you (and your property) personally responsible.

Finalize the contract before the project begins.
This is standing operating procedure for any reputable contractor. However it is not uncommon for unscrupulous contractors to start a project before a contract is signed to use as leverage when negotiating a price.

Never pay more than 25% up front as a deposit.
Most contractors only require a 10% deposit in most cases. A contract for a roof repair might require a much larger deposit, but in the case of a re-roof it is highly unusual for a contractor to ask for more than 25%. It's not advisable to contract with anyone who asks for more than 25% as a deposit.

Always make payment to the company, never make any payment to an individual.
If any agent of the company you've contracted with asks for a check for any reason to be made out to them personally do not! You should also contact the company immediately.

Never pay for the project in cash.
Credit cards, personal or cashiers checks are the only acceptable method for payment.

Don't make the final payment until the project has been completed and you have a final inspection.
Most reputable contractors will leave a 10% balance on the back end of the contract to allow for final inspection.