- Best decision for your money is choosing a local contractor with proven track record of completed jobs, properly licensed/insured in roofing category and current of all its liabilities, with great referrals who is all about the job quality, not job quantity!
- If you can, avoid hiring roofing company that subcontracts the actual roofing work: To minimize the problems with the actual roof installation when don’t know who your installers are, and minimize your potential liability in cases of damage or injury, avoid hiring roofing companies that subcontract the actual roofing work to other roofing company or use leased employees. It’s difficult to track whether the subcontractor(s) has proper licensing and adequate liability/worker’s comp insurance for all its workers.
- There is no rush into signing a contract with the first person who knocks on your door. Even if you’ve sustained damages due to a recent wind storm, take the time to contact a local trusted roofing contractor to have your roof inspected.
- Referrals and contractor’s credentials are wonderful. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to find a qualified professional to tackle the job. As with all major purchases such as a car, home, insurance, etc., researching your options is best. Contractor should be able to provide company credentials/references that you can check (including licenses, insurance, if subcontractors are used, etc.)
- Getting all the details of the job in writing. Communication is paramount!
- Getting a lien release: Before issuing a final payment, acquire a lien release for all the work and materials that are used on your property that confirms everybody was paid in full for their materials and services. The lien release alone will give you legal recourse if others want to come after you because they were cheated out of payments. To learn more, visit this site
- Red flags:
- Large upfront payments. Beware of contractors who ask the homeowner for large up-front pay or to secure permits or pay for materials. Reputable companies should be liquid enough to cover upfront costs.
- Unrealistic warranty promises – Do not buy into it. Remember that a warranty is only as good as the company behind it.
- Low offers: Look at the overall value and consider the quality of the work performed rather then choosing a company solely based on price.
- Helpful websites:
- State’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation myfloridalicense.com
- Florida Department of State Division of Corporations: www.sunbiz.org
- Better Business Bureau: https://www.bbb.org/us/fl/jacksonville/profile/roofing-contractors/bohemia-roofing-0403-21257539
- Duval County: http://buildinginspections.coj.net
- St. John’s County: http://www.co.st-johns.fl.us
- Atlantic Beach: http://www.coab.us
- Jacksonville Beach: http://www.jacksonvillebeach.org
- Neptune Beach: http://www.ci.neptune-beach.fl.us
- Nassau County: http://www.nassaucountyfl.com
- City of Fernandina Beach:http://www.fbfl.us
- Clay County: http://www.claycountygov.com