There is no fool proof method for selecting a professional roof contractor, but there are a number of things you can do to help you make the best decision possible when evaluating contractors:

• Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, tax I.D. number and where appropriate a business license. A professional will have these readily available.
• Ask for proof of insurance. It’s a good idea to insist on seeing copies of both the roofing contractor’s liability coverage and his workers’ compensation certificates. Make sure all insurance coverage runs through the duration of the job to avoid litigation involving uninsured roofing contractors. If a contractor is not properly insured, the owner may be liable for accidents that occur on the 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.
• Ask for client references and a list of completed projects. Call these clients to find out if they were satisfied with the roof systems, services and work they received.
• Get it in writing. The written proposal should have complete descriptions of the proposed work and specifications, including approximate starting and completion dates and payment procedures.
• Since most roofing materials require special application expertise to achieve a quality, lasting roof system, ask for a list of roofing manufacturers with whom the contractor’s firm has licensed or approved applicator agreements.
• Have the contractor explain his project supervision and quality control procedures. Request the name of the person who will be in charge, the number of workers that will be required and the estimated time of completion.
• Ask if the contractor belongs to a regional or national industry association such as National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).
• Carefully read and understand any roof warranty information offered and watch for provisions that would void it.
• Choose a company committed to safety training and industry education for its workers. A roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who actually install the roof.
• Price is important, but so are professionalism and quality workmanship.