A new roof is a major investment, and signing a contract with a reputable roofer is a vital part of the process. It can be tough to know what to look for when you are given a roofing contract. It’s important that the contract you are given includes the scope of work, payment expectations, materials, cost details, schedule, and more.
Read on to gain valuable insight into what you should know about roofing contracts before signing them, and you’ll be equipped to move ahead with confidence in the roof replacement process.
Roofing Contracts 101
A contract is an essential part of the roof replacement process, and you shouldn’t move forward without one. It protects you as a consumer and outlines the details of your roof replacement. In it:
1. The Scope of Work Should Be Clear
An explanation of the roof replacement materials and labor necessary to complete the project should be included in the contract.
2. Your Payment Schedule Should Be Outlined
Your payment schedule is something you want to prepare for, and it should be described in detail in the roofing contract. Nobody wants to be surprised when it comes to the payment timing or amount, so this is an essential detail in the contract. Roofers usually require an initial payment and then the remainder at the project’s conclusion. If a contract asks for most of the payment upfront, that’s a red flag.
3. Roofing Material Choices Should Be Detailed
An itemized list of roofing materials should be included in the contract. There are a variety of options when it comes to materials, and they vary in price from manufacturer to manufacturer. It’s important to get more than one estimate for your new roof, and the material choices will be a big factor in the price variable between contractors.
4. The Start and End Date of Your Project Should Be Noted
Your roof replacement’s timeline should be included in the contract. A start and projected end date is typically outlined so you can prepare for the roofers to be on your property. Roof replacement can be loud, so plan ahead accordingly.
5. Warranty Information Is a Must
The roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty as well as the manufacturer’s warranty on roofing materials should be outlined and discussed before signing a roofing contract. It will give you peace of mind to know your new roof is well covered before you move forward with its replacement.
6. Preparation for the Unknown Should Be Outlined
When your roofer removes your current roof, wood rot, mold, and mildew may be found. If your roof decking is deteriorated due to moisture infiltration, it will need to be replaced or repaired before your new roof is installed. There should be provisions for unexpected issues like this in your roofing contract. The contract should have a “change order” process for you to go through that requires you to sign a new order should the unexpected come up amidst your roof replacement. An updated total and updated scope of work should be included in a change order.
What Makes a Roofing Contractor Stand Out When It Comes to Their Contract?
Contacting more than one roofer can bring perspective to the best fit for your needs.
Do They Include All Relevant Information in the Contract?
A roofing contractor will give you a detailed contract with all the relevant information you need to move forward on your roof replacement with confidence. Information should be included such as:
- Detailed Price Breakdown – If the contract simply comes with one price and no price breakdown, that’s a red flag. You should be able to easily see the price of your new roofing materials and the cost of labor—on the contract.
- Local Office – There should be a physical office with a local address for the roofer on the contract. Knowing you’re buying local will help you rest at ease that you can contact them if any issues pop up after the job is complete.
- How Property Damage Is Handled – If your gutters, light fixtures, or sprinkler heads are damaged during the roof replacement, the fine print in your roof contract should include who is responsible for covering anything that breaks.
What Preventative Measures Do They Take to Prevent Damage to Your Property?
Reading the fine print on a roofing contract is a must. One item homeowners often overlook is the need for their property to be protected from the roof replacement process. Your landscaping and pool should be covered before your current roof is removed to keep debris from harming them. A reputable roofer will ensure your property is protected with tarps before beginning the project, and that should be noted in the contract.
Did They Take the Time to Go Over the Contract with You?
Most people only replace their roof once or twice in their lifetime. That makes the roofing lingo a little foreign. A reputable roofer will go over the contract with you line by line and give you time to ask questions to ensure you understand fully what you are agreeing to before you sign it! They should be willing to answer questions and help you understand where your funds are going.
Protect Your Home with a Beautiful New Roof from Our Experienced Team
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. It adds significant curb appeal to your home, and is a vital contributor to its energy efficiency. When roofing becomes compromised and leaks, your home is at risk of expensive damage. The good news is that you can bypass problems by getting a new roof when you need one!
At Lutgen Companies, our team reviews the scope of your project to ensure you get the right product, color, and fit for your home. This ensures that the materials you choose align with your preferences and your overall design vision. Learn more about how our roofing services can enhance your home’s beauty while delivering significant protection from the elements.
