Five Things A Roofing Contractor Wants You To Know

Our owners have been in the roofing industry for over 10 years and we’ve learned a lot of insider tips during this time. Like with any industry, there are gray areas, things you should know, and things you wish you knew.

Additionally, there are warning signs you should look out for when researching roofers.

We want you to make informed decisions on which roofing company you choose. Here are some things we want you to know.

1. Understand Roofing Contingency Contracts

Roofing contingency contracts can sometimes have a bad rap. And understandably so, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely bad.

The bad part is when a roofing contractor comes to your house, finds damage, and then pressures you into signing a contract with them.

What they’ve done is basically sealed your fate in working with them. The contract will state that should your insurance carrier approve the claim, you will then be contractually bound to use them for your roof repair.

This sales method corners a homeowner into using that company and removes your freedom to consider others. Hopefully, they are a reputable roofer. It is concerning, however, that any roofing company uses this method to secure their sales.

The good part is when during a hail storm, signing a contingency contract secures your place in line. This is especially true if the roofer you choose is in high demand because of their reputation.

So yes, the contracts can be used in shady ways, but if you understand the purpose then it may not all be bad.

To understand contingency contracts better, check out this article we recently wrote.

2. Always Look For License Plates

Did you know that storm chasers have sneaky ways of appearing to be a local company?

After a big hail storm, they’ll come to town and reach out to various Omaha roofers in hopes of using their branding. In turn, they promise the roofing company a percentage of their commisions.

In fact, storm chasers have approached to ask to use our branding. (Obviously, we refused.)

One obvious way to make sure you’re not dealing with a storm is to check their license plates. The truck may have the branding of another Omaha roofing contractor, but the license plate is a dead giveaway.

Here are more tips on how to avoid shady roofers after a storm.

3. Maintaining Your Roof is MUCH Cheaper Than Replacing It

When your new roof is installed, you might be thinking that you’re covered for the next 20 years or because that’s the average life expectancy.

The truth is, your roof likely won’t last that long unless you prolong it. And some roofing contractors prefer that you let it deteriorate faster.

Simple things such as cleaning out your gutters, checking for missing shingles, and inspecting for leaks goes a long way.

There are a lot of common and small repairs that don’t require a roof replacement. And we encourage you to do these things so that you’ll save money in the long haul.

Additionally, most Omaha roofers will do free roof inspections so we encourage you to get 1-2 inspections a year. Check out this article to find out the best seasons for a roof inspection.

4. Work With a Roofer That Supplements

We’ve covered this topic extensively, however, it is best to remind homeowners from time to time again.

Working with a reputable roofing contractor that supplements is always in your best interest. In short, this roofing company should be familiar with the insurance claims process and coverage of storm damage.

Not only will this roofing company be able to assess the roof, but also find claims in non-roof damage.

To understand more about this subject, check out this post we wrote about.

5. Pick The Right Insurance Company

There are so many home insurance carriers that it’s really hard to compare, but we encourage you to not see them all as apples to apples.

Many insurance carriers market on the basis of being the “cheapest” option, however, sometimes that means you get what you pay for.

For instance, there have been times we’ve had to fight carriers tooth and nail to on obvious claims. Certain carriers will approve obvious claims quickly, while others really drag the process on.

Or if they approve, they fight every supplement. For the homeowner, this can sometimes mean that things that should be covered aren’t and/or it extends the repair process. This is especially difficult when you clearly have damage that needs immediate attention.

In short, don’t always go for the cheapest, but look for the best value. Here are some questions you can ask when screening potential insurance carriers.

Summary

Caring for your roof and even picking a roofer happens long before you sign a contract. It starts with picking a good insurance carrier, knowing the basics of roof maintenance, and being a savvy consumer.

We hope this list gets you in the right mindset as you may prepare to get your roof replaced this upcoming Spring. We work all year round, so please give us a call if you need a FREE inspection at (402) 889-3381.