When you are looking to have a new roof installed – or your current roof repaired – you may find yourself wondering if it is really necessary to hire a licensed roofing contractor.
Perhaps you have a friend who says they can handle the job for you, or you know of an unlicensed company who will do the job for less money. Is there any good reason why a licensed contractor should be your choice? Actually, there are many good reasons to find a licensed Sarasota roofing contractor, each one of which should be enough to convince you to hire a true professional.
Why to Hire a Licensed Roofing Contractor
- It’s the Law: One of the most compelling reasons to hire a licensed professional is that in the state of Florida, anyone repairing or installing a roof for another party must be licensed by law. Florida roofing licenses are issued to applicants who have passed the state exam and have at least four years of experience. This experience may be a degree in a construction-related field or a combination of accredited college classes with real work experience. These requirements ensure that you, the consumer, are hiring someone who has been educated and trained in this area of expertise. Your roof is too important to leave to chance. To find out if the company you are hiring is a currently licensed roofing contractor, check the Florida Department of Professional and Business Regulation website.
- They Are Required to Carry Insurance: A fully licensed roofing contractor in Florida is required to carry the proper insurance coverage. This includes both workman’s compensation insurance, and insurance meant to protect your home and property. This is especially important to Sarasota homeowners, as they should not have to fear that they will be left holding the financial bag should the roofer make a mistake – or worse yet, get sued by a worker because their company did not have insurance. Some unlicensed contractors may be able to offer a lower total price on the project because they do not have to cover insurance costs – but that is a financial risk no homeowner should take.IMPORTANT: When you are hiring a roofing contractor, be sure to always ask to see a copy of their current license, and proof of their insurance. Check the dates and make sure that nothing is expired, or set to expire while your job is underway.
- There are No Guarantees: Sadly, after recent major hurricanes, there were multiple horror stories of homeowners who hired unlicensed contractors and paid them money – yet their roof was never installed and the contractor disappeared. Hiring a licensed roofing contractor guarantees not only that they should offer a contractual obligation, but their license proves that they are established, working in the area, and interested in being a legitimate organization. A licensed contractor also brings with them a certain level of guaranteed experience, and you can be sure that they have been educated to a certain standard. With an unlicensed company, you simply have no idea if they can perform the job professionally and skillfully.
Once you have found a reputable licensed roofing contractor, be sure to ask them for references – or check on their website for photos and documentation of their recent work. A professional roofing company will have no problem with providing any assurances you need to feel comfortable with their quality of service. At Avery Roof Services, we are proud of the stellar reputation we enjoy in the Sarasota area, built upon years of providing exceptional workmanship. Give us a call today for a consultation – we would love the opportunity to help you with your roofing project!
Your Local, Trusted, Sarasota Roofer
