You need a new roof, or maybe you've got a leak that's driving you crazy. So, you start looking for a roofer. It's not always easy to tell the good ones from the bad, especially when everyone's promising the moon. I've been doing this for years here in Missoula, and I've seen plenty of folks get burned by fly-by-night operations or just plain shoddy work. Here's how to make sure you're hiring someone legitimate and competent.
What Questions Should You Ask a Potential Roofer?
Don't be shy. This is your home and your money. Any good contractor won't mind you asking tough questions. If they do, that's your first red flag.
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. They should carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation. Ask for proof, and don't just take their word for it. Call their insurance provider to verify. If someone gets hurt on your property and they're not insured, guess who's on the hook? You are.
- How long have you been in business in Missoula? Longevity matters. A company that's been around for a while has a reputation to protect. New companies can be good, but they're more of an unknown.
- Can you provide references? Ask for at least three recent customers you can call. And actually call them. Ask about communication, timeliness, cleanliness, and if they'd hire them again.
- What's your warranty on labor and materials? A good roofer will stand behind their work. Most shingle manufacturers offer a material warranty, but you want to know what the contractor offers for their installation.
- Who will be doing the work? Your employees or subcontractors? It's not necessarily a deal-breaker if they use subs, but you should know. If they do, ask how they vet their subcontractors and if those subs are also insured.
- What's your process for protecting my property during the job? Good roofers will lay down tarps, use magnetic sweeps for nails, and generally respect your landscaping. We're not just tearing off old shingles; we're working on your home.
- How do you handle unexpected issues? Sometimes you get up there and find rotten decking or other surprises. A good contractor will have a clear process for communicating these issues and getting your approval for any additional costs before proceeding.
What to Look for in a Roofing Quote
Don't just pick the cheapest bid. I've seen too many homeowners regret that. A detailed quote tells you a lot about a contractor's professionalism.
- It should be written, not just a verbal estimate. Everything needs to be in black and white.
- Detailed scope of work: It should clearly outline what's included. What type of shingles (manufacturer, model, color)? How many layers of old roofing will be removed? Will they replace flashing? What about ventilation? Ice and water shield? Many homes in the Rattlesnake Valley, with their steep pitches and heavy snow loads, absolutely need proper ice and water shield coverage.
- Breakdown of costs: Labor, materials, disposal fees, permits (if needed). You want to see where your money is going.
- Payment schedule: A reputable contractor won't ask for 100% up front. A reasonable deposit (10-30%) is common, with the remainder due upon satisfactory completion.
- Start and completion dates: Understand the timeline. Weather can be a factor here in Montana, but they should give you a realistic window.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Some things should make you hit the brakes immediately.
- Door-to-door solicitations, especially after a storm. While some legitimate companies do this, it's a common tactic for storm chasers who blow into town, do quick, often poor work, and then disappear.
- High-pressure sales tactics.