How to choose your roofer when so many are knocking at your door
In Texas, there is no state licensing for roofers, and insurance is not required. Anyone can hang up a “shingle” and call themselves a roofing company. When storms hit North Texas, we see an influx of out-of-town roofers (“storm chasers”) who often leave town not long after the storms do.
Important questions to ask any roofing company you may be considering:
- Is the contractor going to obtain the appropriate roofing permits?
- Are they in good standing with the Better Business Bureau?
- How many years of experience do they have as a roofing contractor in North Texas?
- Are they insured — and what does the coverage include? Ask for a certificate of insurance.
- Who will supervise your project, and how can you contact that person?
- Where is the roofing company located? Did they just come to town with the storms?
- What is the warranty on labor, and the manufacturer’s warranty? Get it in writing.
- Do they have credit references with material suppliers?
- Do they have customer references you can call?
- Will they give you a detailed, written proposal with dates and a payment schedule?
- Are they asking for money upfront?
- Is the roofer offering to “take care of” insurance? Talk directly to your insurance company.
- Are they claiming they are licensed? If so, where?
- If the bid is significantly lower than competitors, why?
We have all of these covered.
