It can be alarming to learn the requirements to be a roofer in
Georgia. Georgia currently does not have any state standards for roofing
professionals. This means the burden to qualify the reputation and
competency is left to the homeowner. Taking some additional time to
verify the background of your roofing contractor is recommended before
you enter into an agreement to replace your roof.
Georgia laws and regulations do not require roofing companies to have
professional credentials, certificates or licenses. In addition, there
are no codes or requirements essentially as a homeowner you are on your
own.
Question: If a contractor has a business license doesn't that count as a certificate?
Answer: No. A business license means the business is recognized as a
legitimate entity that can be taxed. While it is important to work with a
contractor that has a business license, remember: that license only
confirms the business is reporting taxable income.
It is important to conduct a thorough interview of all Atlanta roofing
contractors you are considering. Review their proposals. This is a big
decision-your roof is designed to last a long time. As a best practice,
you should expect to receive a free estimate from the rep. Here are some
things to look for and consider when interviewing a potential roofing
contractor.
1. Being on Time:
The person conducting the roof estimate should be on time for your
appointment. This is a reflection of the ethics and timeliness you can
expect when the work is performed. The roofing representative should be
capable of explaining the details of your individual installation and
should be able to answer your question about your new roof or
replacement roof.
2. Perform a Background Check:
This is where some detective work can go a long way. You want to learn
about the roofer's history. Start by confirming the address of the
roofer's business. A red flag would be if the address is only a P.O. box
number. Next, ask for customer references (ideally in your area) and
follow up with these past customers. For a more detailed background
check, you may want to consider contacting the Better Business Bureau to
see if there are any registered complaints.
3. Go up on your Roof for an Evaluation:
To receive an accurate Atlanta roof estimate, it means the estimator
must examine your roof. The estimator should physically go up on your
roof and inspect its current condition. This includes taking
measurements and inspecting the exterior of the home for potential
issues associated with the roof. In addition, your estimator should go
into the attic and perform an evaluation of the roof from the inside and
confirm if contents need to be removed or protected.
4. Consider Roofing Materials:
The rep should show you various samples of roofing materials. The
materials you choose can greatly impact the cost of your roof. Compare
the properties of the various roofing materials and learn about the
warranties offered.
5. Comprehensive Liability Insurance:
Remember there are no professional roofing regulations in Georgia. Part
of your research should include the roofer providing written proof that
he carries comprehensive liability insurance. In addition, ask for
documentation of workers' comprehensive insurance. Review the
documentation, and don't settle for verbal assurances or handshakes.
This helps protect you and your property.
6. Alternative Credentials:
Another creative check you can perform is asking your rep to see
alternative credentials. Examples of alternative credentials include
credentials issued by manufacturers of roofing materials. These
credentials are certificates that can be awarded for contractors who
have completed training to install the manufacturer's roofing products.
Receiving these certificates is an example of the roofer's commitment to
professionalism. For an extra check, look to see if your potential
contractor has a certificate from the manufacturer of the roofing
material you are considering!
7. Red Flag - Requests for Deposit or Advanced Payment:
Be suspicious of the roofer if you receive a request for a deposit, or
any request for advanced payment of roofing materials. As a best
practice, payment should be due via an invoice upon the completion of
the roof installation.
Remember, a little investigative work prior to contracting with a roofer
can save a lot of time, money and headaches. If you remember these best
practices you'll be better prepared to evaluate an Atlanta roof
replacement company the next time you get an estimate.