How to Find a Cheap, Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Roofing Contractor
If you are looking for a roofer who is cheap, there are a few things you should keep in mind. A cheap contractor will likely use inferior materials. He may even use fewer nails than required by manufacturers. Oftentimes, cheap contractors are not insured or carry the minimum insurance required for your state. This could mean that your roof will be susceptible to damage or void your warranty. Listed below are some of the things to look out for.
Start with overhead costs. A single worker at $20 per hour equals $48,000/year. Another expense is 40% worker’s compensation insurance per employee (for a four-man crew in Ohio). And, don’t forget income taxes. Uncle Sam takes 35% of the profits of your business, and he will tax your personal income, too. If you have no workers’ comp insurance, you should look for another contractor to work on your roof.
Look for certifications. Many companies offer warranties for their work. Make sure your contractor is licensed and accredited by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. Check the license number and accreditation status online to ensure they are legitimate. A genuine contractor will provide you with a license number. Be prepared to provide references. Another tip is to check whether the shingles are guaranteed. If the shingles aren’t, you can buy them yourself at a structure supply store.
Consider the price. A cheap roofing contractor will use inferior materials and cut corners on labor costs. In the long run, this could lead to higher costs of roof repair and replacement. A cheaper contractor may not have the proper license or insurance. He may also skip essential steps, such as installing drip edge or underlayment. If you choose a cheap contractor, make sure that they have these two important steps in their roofing procedure. And don’t forget about the insurance!
Make sure that the company will be in business five years from now. A cheap roofing company might be starting up but fail to make it. A cheap roofing contractor may end up closing down, leaving you without protection for your roof investment. Whether you choose a local roofing company or a national one, be sure to look for a company with a good track record and a good reputation in your area. A company with a good history in the community will provide you with a high-quality roof at a lower price.
A good Menifee roofing contractor will also have insurance for both materials and labor. This is a must for homeowners. If a contractor fails to have insurance, you are liable for paying for his medical care. A roofing contractor who does not have insurance will be held accountable for any damage caused by his employees. As a final note, you should always check to make sure that the company has a valid license. The Better Business Bureau has information on complaints made against a roofing contractor.
In general, you should aim to pay at least 25% NET profit on each roofing project. Depending on your location, this can vary significantly. If you live in a metropolitan area, your overhead will be higher. The same applies to rural areas, where labor rates vary widely. A cheaper price does not necessarily mean a better quality roof. So, choose your contractor wisely and save yourself the headache. You should also check the insurance coverage and licenses of the company.