Why It’s Important to Choose a Reputable Roofer

The Florida roofing industry is tainted with bad players and unscrupulous contractors. In 2021 alone, there were over 116,000 lawsuits related to fraudulent roofing schemes. Therefore, it’s paramount that Floridians practice their due diligence when selecting a roofing contractor. After all, a new roof is one of the biggest investments a homeowner will ever make. So, what characteristics should you look for in a reputable roofer? Read on to learn more!

What Are the Characteristics of a Reputable Roofer?

Reputable roofing companies will possess the following characteristics.

• Licensed and insured
• Warranty on workmanship
• Permitting
• They don’t use subcontractors
• Local

Reputable Roofers Are Licensed and Insured

First and foremost, you want to make sure your roofer is licensed and insured. You can look up their licensing information on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Additionally, reputable roofers will often display their license numbers on their vehicles or in marketing literature.

When it comes to insurance verification, you can request a certificate of insurance (COI) from your roofer if you feel comfortable. It’s essential to make sure that they have insurance in case there’s accidental damage to your property or if a personal injury occurs while they’re onsite.

Warranty on Workmanship

Roofing materials often come with manufacturer warranties. However, not all contractors offer a warranty on their workmanship. For example, at Big D, we offer a 5-year warranty on our work. If we re-roof a house for a customer and the roof starts leaking 3 years later, we will return and repair the leak for no extra cost.

When contractors offer a warranty, it provides an extra level of protection and accountability. Reputable roofers that offer a warranty are going to follow industry best practices and use the highest quality of materials. This comforts customers in their decision to make a hefty investment.

Permitting

Before any work begins on your home or business, your roofer should take the proper steps by filing for a building permit in your local community. Doing work without a permit is not only irresponsible, but it’s also against the law. Any time a structure is being altered, Florida law requires that a building permit be obtained.

Building permits help local agencies monitor ongoing construction projects so they can ensure work is being done according to local building codes and standards.

You can verify a permit has been filed through the Marion County Building Safety Office or through the Building Services Department if you live in Sumter County, FL.

A Reputable Roofer Doesn’t Use Subcontractors

Reputable roofers will often rely on in-house team members for the services they provide. Using in-house employees instead of subcontractors provides the following benefits.

• Quality control
• Accountability
• Decreased liability
• Reliability

Roofers that use subcontractors are handcuffed to their availability and have less control over the quality of work they provide. In-house team members are vetted, trained, and held directly accountable by their employer. By using in-house employees, reputable roofers are able to schedule jobs in a more timely manner and ensure the highest quality of workmanship and safety.

Local

Lastly, using a local roofer is crucial. Not only are you supporting a local business by using its services, but you’re also getting an additional layer of accountability and commitment. Large roofing companies that serve multiple states or companies that are “fly-by-night” don’t offer the best service.

Reputable roofers who have been in business for decades are going to have an established word-of-mouth reputation and live in the communities they serve. Should you ever have an issue down the road, these well-established companies will still be in business and ready to support you.

If there’s potential for you to pass your local roofer in the grocery store, they’re going to work harder to earn a good-standing reputation in the community.

Big D Is Your Clear Choice for a Reputable Roofer in Ocala, FL, The Villages, FL, and Surrounding Areas

Working with a reputable local roofing contractor like Big D gives you the knowledge and expertise you need to make the best decisions for your home. We follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to provide our customers with beautiful roofs that will last. We are also available to our customers for questions and concerns long after their roofing project is complete.

If you live in Ocala, FL, The Villages, FL, or the surrounding area, contact us today to get started on your residential or commercial roof installation!