Hiring a roofing contractor is a major decision for any Maryland homeowner. Whether you need a few damaged shingles replaced or an entirely new roof, the quality of the installation can affect how well your home is protected for years to come.
Maryland homeowners have many roofing companies to choose from, and estimates can vary considerably from one contractor to another. Price matters, but it should not be the only factor you consider. Licensing, insurance, experience, warranties, materials, and the proposed scope of work can all help you determine which contractor is right for your project.
Before signing a roofing contract, take some time to research the company, compare estimates, and understand exactly what you are paying for.
Start With a Licensed Maryland Roofing Contractor
One of the first things to check is whether the contractor is properly licensed to perform home improvement work in Maryland.
The Maryland Home Improvement Commission, commonly called the MHIC, regulates home improvement contractors in the state. The Maryland Department of Labor advises homeowners to verify a contractor’s license before hiring them. Homeowners can also check the status of a license directly through the MHIC.
Ask for Proof of Insurance
Licensing and insurance are two different things. Before work begins, ask the roofing contractor for current proof of insurance. Important coverage can include general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Maryland’s MHIC specifically recommends that homeowners request a current liability insurance certificate and, when applicable, a current workers’ compensation certificate.
Look for an Established Local Roofing Company
Roofing warranties and follow-up service become more useful when you can still reach the contractor after the project is finished.
Consider how long the roofing company has been operating and whether it has an established presence in Maryland. A contractor with a history in the area may also be more familiar with local permitting requirements, housing styles, weather conditions, and roofing systems commonly found throughout the state.
This can become especially important after severe weather. Major storms can bring a sudden influx of contractors (commonly called storm-chasers in the roofing business) into an affected area.
Find out where the business is located, how long it has served Maryland customers, and what happens if you need warranty service several years later.
Research the Roofing Contractor’s Reputation
Online reviews can provide useful information, but no single review tells the whole story. Check several sources and look for consistent patterns. Homeowners may want to review Google ratings, Better Business Bureau information, manufacturer directories, and other third-party platforms. Pay particular attention to comments about:
- Installation quality
- Communication
- Cleanup
- Scheduling
- Warranty service
- Unexpected charges
- How problems were resolved
A company with a large number of reviews collected over several years can provide more information to evaluate than one with only a handful of recent reviews.
Ask to See Examples of Recent Roofing Projects
Ask to see examples of projects similar to yours. Depending on the property, this could include:
- Asphalt shingle replacements
- Metal roofing
- Slate roofing
- Flat or low-slope roofing
- Historic homes
- Commercial roofing
- Storm damage repairs
You can also ask how frequently the contractor installs the specific roofing system or manufacturer you are considering.
Compare More Than the Lowest Roofing Estimate
It can be tempting to choose the contractor offering the lowest price, particularly when roofing estimates differ by thousands of dollars.
However, two contractors may not actually be proposing the same project. One estimate might include upgraded underlayment, new flashing, ventilation work, disposal, and replacement of deteriorated components. Another may quote only the basic tear-off and installation. Before comparing prices, compare the scopes of work. If something is unclear, ask the contractor to explain it before signing.
Understand the Difference Between Manufacturer and Workmanship Warranties
Roofing projects can involve more than one type of warranty.
Manufacturer Warranty
A manufacturer’s warranty generally applies to qualifying roofing materials. Terms vary considerably between products and manufacturers. Coverage may depend on factors such as proper installation, ventilation, approved components, registration, or the contractor used for installation.
Workmanship Warranty
A workmanship warranty is typically provided by the roofing contractor and addresses qualifying problems associated with installation. Get the warranty terms in writing.
Get a Written Roofing Contract
Do not rely on verbal agreements for a major roofing project. Maryland’s MHIC advises homeowners to get a written contract, and Maryland home improvement contracts are subject to specific requirements.
Review the document carefully before signing. The contract should clearly identify the work being performed, project price, payment schedule, materials, and other important terms. Keep copies of the contract, estimates, payments, warranty documents, change orders, and other project records.
Compare Several Maryland Roofing Contractors
The MHIC recommends obtaining at least two bids and advises homeowners not to rush into repairs without first researching the contractor. Use the estimates to understand how different roofing companies approach the project.
One contractor may charge more because the proposal includes components that another estimate leaves out. Ask questions until you understand those differences.
Consider Established Maryland Roofing Companies
For example, RoofPRO is a Maryland roofing contractor founded in 2004. The company offers residential and commercial roofing services and currently identifies MHIC license #89605 on its website. RoofPRO also lists manufacturer credentials with companies including Owens Corning and GAF.
Using an established company such as RoofPRO as one point of comparison can help you evaluate what local contractors include in their estimates, warranties, and roofing systems.
Choosing the Right Maryland Roofing Contractor
Choosing a roofing contractor should involve more than comparing the bottom line of several estimates. Verify the company’s Maryland license. Ask for insurance documentation. Research its history and reputation. Compare the complete scope of work and understand the roofing materials being proposed. Review both manufacturer and workmanship warranties.
Most importantly, get the important details in writing before work begins.
A qualified roofing contractor should be willing to explain what your roof needs, why the work is recommended, what materials will be used, and how much the project is expected to cost. Taking the time to compare those details can help you make a more informed decision about who will work on one of the most important components of your home.
For more guidance on home improvement decisions in Maryland, visit marylandreporter.com and search for roofing or home improvement.
Recent Comments