By Jay Carter Roofing

12/27/2011 Buying a new roof system is an important investment. And you’ll want to have confidence that you are dealing with a reputable and highly experienced roofing contractor.

Jay Carter Roofing is one of the leading roofing contractors in Ontario & the GTA. But to help you evaluate us, here are the guidelines published by the National Roofing Contractors Association.

• Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, tax identification number and, where applicable, a business license.
• Don't hesitate to ask a roofing contractor for proof of insurance. In fact, insist on seeing copies of his liability coverage and workers' compensation certificates. Make sure the coverage is in effect through the duration of the job. Many building and home owners have been dragged into litigation involving uninsured roofing contractors. Also, if a contractor is not properly insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property.

• Check to see if the roofing contractor is properly licensed or bonded.

• Make sure the contractor is financially stable. A professional roofing contractor can provide current financial information about his company.

• Look for a company with a proven track record that offers client references and a list of completed projects. Call these clients to find out whether they were satisfied.
• Insist on a detailed, written proposal and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, including approximate starting and completion dates and payment procedures.
• Have the contractor list the roofing manufacturers with which his firm is a licensed or approved applicator. Most roof systems require special application expertise to achieve lasting quality.
• Have the contractor explain his project supervision and quality-control procedures. Request the name of the person who will be in charge of your project, how many workers will be required and estimated completion time.
• Check to see if the contractor is a member of any industry associations, such as NRCA. Being a member of industry associations demonstrates a commitment to professionalism.
• Call your local Better Business Bureau to check for possible complaints filed against the contractor.
• Carefully read and understand any roofing warranties offered, and watch for provisions that would void it.
• Choose a company committed to worker safety and education. Ask the contractor what type of safety training he provides for his workers and what industry education programs they have attended. The best roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who install the roof system.
• Keep a healthy skepticism about the lowest bid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many fly-by-night contractors' below-cost bids seem attractive, but these contractors often are uninsured and perform substandard work. Remember, price is only one of the criteria for selecting a roofing contractor. Professionalism, experience and quality workmanship also should weigh heavily in your decision.