When your roof starts causing problems, the job of finding the right person to fix it can seem daunting. Your roof is the primary shield for your home, so placing it in the hands of a stranger feels like a big deal. How can you be sure you’re picking someone who is skilled, trustworthy, and won’t leave you with a bigger mess?
Knowing which questions to ask will help you sort the experts from the amateurs and give you the confidence to make a great choice.
The Must-Ask Questions for Your Peace of Mind
Before you get into the specifics of the leak or the slipped tiles, a few initial questions can tell you a lot about the company you’re dealing with.
- Are you a local company with a proper business address? A company with genuine local roots has a reputation in the community to protect. They’ll also be familiar with the local housing styles and common issues in the area.
- Can I see your proof of insurance? Don’t skip this one. Any roofer you hire needs to have up-to-date public liability insurance to cover your property and employer’s liability insurance for their team.
- Do you have references or a portfolio I can look at? Good roofers are proud of their work and will be happy to show it off. Seeing photos of completed projects or even speaking to a past customer is a powerful way to gauge the quality of their workmanship.
- Will I receive a detailed, written quotation? Always insist on a written quote that breaks everything down. It should be itemised, listing the costs for materials, labour, and any other potential expenses like scaffolding.
Getting Down to the Details of the Job
Once you feel comfortable with their credentials, it’s time to talk about the work itself. These questions will clarify what to expect during the project.
- What kind of guarantees do you offer? A solid guarantee shows a contractor has confidence in their work. Ask how long the guarantee on the workmanship lasts and what it covers. Also, inquire about the separate warranties that come with the materials being used.
- Who will actually be doing the work? Will the company’s own team be on your roof, or do they use subcontractors? It’s good to know exactly who is working on your home and to be assured that they are properly qualified.
- What’s your experience with my type of roof or problem? Your roof is unique, so your roofer needs the right experience. If you’re dealing with a stubborn drip, you’ll want a specialist in roof leak repair Bath. What if it’s a more urgent situation? You need to know if they can provide an emergency roof repair Bath service. A contractor who is well-versed in all types of roof repairs in Bath will have the know-how to tackle your specific problem.
- How will you protect my garden and driveway? Roofing work can be a messy business. It’s fair to ask how they plan to protect your property from falling debris and what their clean-up process looks like.
- What’s the estimated timeframe for the work? While the British weather can throw a spanner in the works, a contractor should be able to provide a clear start date and an estimate for how long the job will take. They should also explain how they’ll keep you updated.
- What happens if you find another problem once you start? It’s not uncommon for other issues to be uncovered once old tiles are removed. A good roofer has a plan for this.
A Final Word
Choosing who to trust with your roof is a big step. By going into the conversation prepared with these questions, you put yourself in control of the hiring process. It’s the surest way to find a genuine professional who will do the job right and protect your home for years to come.
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