Business and commercial property owners like you don’t want to trust their building’s roof to just any contractor. You want to know if your office’s roof replacement, repair, and installation are in the best hands possible. That’s why you are taking the time to research the roofing contractors in your area. But it’s essential to follow the best practices to hire a commercial roofer to ensure your roof is taken care of by the right team.
If you’re looking for a roofing contractor to take care of your business’s commercial roofing needs, take the time to learn more about how to vet your potential options. If you live in the Mid-Atlantic Region, there are some specific considerations that you should make as you do your research. Once you have your needs listed, call us and get a quote for your comparison!
1. Shop Local
![An overhead view of a white commercial building roof with a dome at the front end and multiple AC units lining the middle](https://b2308127.smushcdn.com/2308127/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AdobeStock_722416854-1024x767.jpeg?lossy=1&strip=1&webp=1)
One of the most important best practices to hire a commercial roofer is that they should know the area. The weather and the environment are the two biggest enemies of your roof. If you live near a body of water, moisture is your biggest worry for roof maintenance, while other areas might worry about wind damage.
Only local roofing contractors can truly understand the ins and outs of commercial roofing projects in your hometown. They can better adjust their suggestions to fit your building’s needs, job site, and preferences. A local company will also give you easier access to their reputation.
2. Ask for Referrals
Another one of the best practices to hire a commercial roofer is to ask for referrals. The best way to check previous projects is to call your potential contractors and request client referrals. A good commercial roofing contractor with plenty of years in business will provide contact information for other businesses they have worked with, allowing you to hear about their first-hand experiences. This point of contact will provide valuable insights into the types of building and roofing projects they are skilled at handling, and it is one of the best practices for hiring a commercial roofer.
If you want to keep your search more casual, a common way to check on your potential contractor or commercial roofing company’s past work is to look for a “previous projects” gallery on their website. This page will show the company’s work at a glance. You can also check customer reviews on Google or the Better Business Bureau Website.
3. Check for Licenses and Certificates
![A roofer standing on a purple roof coating is in the process of installing BUR roofing on top of it. He wears purple overalls with an orange shirt and a hard hat.](https://b2308127.smushcdn.com/2308127/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AdobeStock_398714020-1024x614.jpeg?lossy=1&strip=1&webp=1)
Licensing and industry certifications are critical necessities for any reputable commercial roofing contractor. A good contractor’s reputation depends on their adherence to legal and educational requirements. Local roofing contractors should have licensing for jobs above a specific price point.
Certain materials may also have specific licensing requirements. For instance, the National Roofing Contractors Association offers certification for installing certain roofing materials. Ensure your contractors work closely with different organizations and understand building codes.
4. Get Proof of Insurance Coverage
Like property owners, your roofing services contractors must be properly insured. Workers’ compensation insurance, general liability insurance, and surety bond are the three primary insurance coverages that you should check that your local roofing contractor has on hand.
Asking a reputable contractor for a quote can be a good time to double-check that the roofing contractor has adequate insurance coverage. While most contractors will have this insurance on demand, one of the best tips for commercial roofing contractors is to ask for proof that they are properly insured well in advance.
5. Get Multiple Itemized Quotes
One of the best practices to hire a commercial roofer is to get multiple quotes. Like any big purchase, your research should never stop at one contractor. While you might find that your first option is the best, you never know if you might miss out on a better deal without comparing prices. You should aim to collect at least three quotes on the roofing project details you have. A written estimate is good for record-keeping, so ask for one!
Itemized quotes can also help you decide between multiple quotes. A more detailed itemization indicates that your licensed roofing contractor is transparent and knowledgeable about the service they will provide. Thorough research is one of the best practices when hiring a commercial roofer.
6. Ask About Materials
Most commercial roofs are made of either PVC, TPO, or EPDM roofing. These materials are the most common and favored by roofing companies in the industry, thanks to their durability and lifespan. Ask your contractor what roofing system materials they are familiar with and what they suggest for your roofing system.
A decent conversation with your contractor about their opinions, thoughts, and recommendations for your commercial roofing materials can give you insight into their knowledge, years in business, and experience. Do they think your building will be more or less suitable for EPDM? Do they believe TPO or PVC are easier to install? Just a few questions about roofing materials can show how insightful your roofing contractor can be and is one of the best practices to hire a commercial roofer you can make.
Put These Best Practices to Hire a Commercial Roofer to Work with Heidler Roofing!
You need to know that you won’t get the run-around when you get a quote from your roofing contractors. Finding a reputable roofing contractor should be your priority. The commercial roofing industry is full of well-loved and reputable contractors with extensive experience, quality materials, and robust commercial roofing services. In a competitive industry like this, you should always follow the best practices to hire a commercial roofer.
When you work with us, you will receive friendly and professional commercial roofing contractors who will ensure you have the best possible experience. Let us know if you are hiring commercial roofing contractors and have a significant commercial roofing job lined up! We will get you a fair and itemized quote that you can bring on your journey to a new commercial roof. Call today!