Selecting a Contractor | Interviewing a Contractor | Ask the Customer
Contracts & Permits | What to Expect

SELECTING A CONTRACTOR

Why hire a professional?
Installing a new roof, replacing an existing roof or simply making roof repairs are all projects for a professional. In addition to owning the proper equipment, professional roofing contractors are also experienced at working in a variety of roofing situations, such as steeply pitched roofs. Professionals can also make recommendations about which shingles will perform best and which colors will complement your home's appearance. When a roofing system is professionally applied, your home will enjoy a distinctive look, while you'll enjoy a worry-free investment that adds to the value of your home.

Making a Choice
Your choice of a contractor is vital to the success of your home improvement project. Select him or her with care, as you would any other professional, like a doctor or lawyer. You will find that good contractors are everywhere. You just need to sort through all of the information to narrow your list of prospects. Pay close attention to:

• Referrals are the best way to find a contractor. Ask your friends, relatives, neighbors and business associates if they know anyone that they would recommend.
• Job site signs in your neighborhood offer you the opportunity to see a contractor in action. Talk to the homeowner about the quality of his work.
• Articles in your local magazine or newspaper may feature a job under way in your area, or the special expertise of a local contractor.
• Advertisements and direct mail solicitations can help you find a contractor, but remember to check his references carefully.

Buyer Beware
Most contractors are honest professionals. However, as in any buying situation, it's your job to be on the lookout for the unscrupulous few. Here's what the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) warns are some of the danger signs of fraud*:

• Fantastic promises or wild deals
• High-pressure sales tactics or threats to push you into signing up on the spot
• Attempts to scare you into signing for "urgent" repairs
• Offers to consolidate your existing loans through a home improvement contractor
• Trial purchases, or guarantees of significant discounts, if you allow your home to be used as a "demo"
• Offers of a "bargain" price using "leftover materials" from a contractor who makes unsolicited phone calls or visits to your home

*Fixing Up Your Home and How to Finance It, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 1995.

Home | About Us | Roofing Basics | Selecting a Contractor
Portfolio of Homes | Commercial Properties | Contact
© 2002 DeFREHN CORPORATION

member