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Tips & Tools-STEPHENS'S ROOFING INC.

Tips & Tools - Selecting A Contractor

How to Select a Contractor For Your Protection
“Reputation - Stability - Workmanship”

 

Bank Financial Stability

Is your contractor financially stable? Can he produce credit references?

 

General Liability Insurance Certificate - Not "Self-Insured"

You need to know if your contractor carries general general liability insurance for both commercial and residential projects. A sizable contractor will carry no less than $500,000...and usually around $1,000,000 of coverage. If you contractor's insurance policy cannot cover potential damages, then the contractor would be personally liable. If he cannot cover the damages himself, you will again have no legal recourse and will end up paying for the repairs or even a new roof yourself. Over three-fourths of roofing companies do not carry proper insurance coverage to protect you against losses.

 

"LIEN WAIVER" Letter

Don't be fooled, some might promise you a lien waiver letter, buy you must demand that it be given to you before you pay your last payment.

 

Current References

All reputable roofers can provide a long list of happy clients.  We are glad to provide you as many as you need. 

 

A Downpayment is normal but DO NOT pay your job in full until work is completed:

Reputable roofing contractors may ask for a downpayment to protect their interest as well (that is why insurance companies give you the first check to allow you to get in the que). Another circumstances that would make it necessary for a downpayment is if you choose a  special order non-returnable materials, or insurance does not cover your repairs and you have questionable credit.

 

Better Business Bureau 

Associations like the Better Business Bureau give you the ability to see how others view thier experience with a particular contractor.  An Accedited Business lets you know that the company has been around for awhile.

 

Compliance to Manufacturer Installation
Guidelines Quality Inspection and Warranties

Having a manufacturer's certified contractor helps give you the security to know that your job was done will and to the specs of the Manufacturer.