How to Choose a Roofing Contractor Without Being Ripped Off
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Don’t get Nailed! How to Choose a Roofing Contractor Without Being Ripped Off
Unfortunately, the roofing industry is full of contractors that do not do the right thing and give the good guys a bad name. Here’s a guide to help make sure you select the correct contractor and reduce the chances of being taken advantage of.
Don't forget to check their licensing. In Louisiana, there are multiple levels of licensing:
Home Improvement Registration:
The person/company that holds this designation simply filled out a registration form with the Louisiana Contractor’s licensing board, without having to demonstrate any construction knowledge. These registration holders can perform small home improvements under the amount of $50,000, including roofing. Commercial work is not allowed with the Home Improvement Registration.
Residential Construction License:
This license holder was required to take and pass a test on their construction knowledge as it relates to residential construction prior to being issued a contractor’s license. This license holder can perform with no limit any remodeling/roofing on a residence, including building a new residence from the ground up.
Commercial Construction License
This license holder was required to take and pass a test on their construction knowledge as it relates to commercial construction prior to being issued a contractor’s license. This license holder can perform any commercial building remodeling/roofing or can build a commercial building from the ground up.
Under the commercial license, there are added speciality classifications that require additional tests to acquire the specific license. For example, there is a roofing/sheet metal speciality classification for contractors that have passed the test for the specialty area of roofing/sheet metal.
**Important note to consider: It is illegal for the home improvement registrant to perform any structural work while replacing your roof. So if you hire a person or company that has registered with the state and they remove your shingles and there is rotten wood, you must call a contractor with a Residential Construction license to fix this prior to them being able to install the roof on your house.
To check the licensing of the contractor you are considering, click this link or the button below and type in their business name and you will be able to see what level of licensing they have.
Additional Tips:
Check Their Insurance:
To perform work as a licensed LA Contractor, it is a requirement to have General Liability insurance and Workman’s Compensation Insurance. General Liability protects the homeowner in the event the work is done incorrectly. Workman’s Compensation protects you if somebody gets injured while working on your home. Ask for a current insurance certificate prior to entering into a contract.
Never Pay Up Front:
If there are materials that need to be delivered as part of the contract, have the materials on-site prior to paying any portion. It is recommended that you check with their primary supplier to see if they pay their bills on time prior to signing a contract. If they don’t pay on time, that should be a red flag on doing business with that contractor.
Check With Others:
Check with friends/family, neighborhood social media sites and google reviews of the contractor you are considering.
Check the BBB:
Check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints: You can look here to search for your contractor.
How Does Baton Rouge Weather Affect Your Roof?
Baton Rouge’s challenging climate Baton Rouge thrives as a vibrant city with over 800,000 residents in southern Louisiana. From May through September, the city endures intense summers with temperatures reaching 100 degrees. Moreover, Baton Rouge receives approximately 57 inches of rainfall annually, making it exceptionally wet. Additionally, residents face tropical storms during hurricane season between June and November.
Protecting Your Home These harsh weather conditions can severely damage your roofing materials over time. Therefore, contact a professional immediately if you spot any leaks or damage. Furthermore, as trusted Roofers in Baton Rouge, LA, HUDCO Roofing provides comprehensive protection for your property.
Expert Local Service Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of Baton Rouge’s climate patterns. Subsequently, we deliver top-quality inspections and installations to safeguard your home or business. Contact us today at 225.319.1110 to schedule your free roof inspection!
