Choosing a commercial roofing contractor is a serious decision. You want it done right with high quality workmanship because you have probably invested much of your business into maintaining and repairing the roof. Now that its time for a new roof installation you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible, is energy efficient, and environmentally sound.
But how do you find good roofing contractors? And when you find them, how do you choose between them?
To choose the right vendor for you, be sure to follow these steps:
- Check the Contractor’s Business Listings
- Check the Contractor’s Better Business Bureau Status
- Check that the Contractor Meets State Licensure Requirements
- Check the Contractor’s Project Management Process
- Create an Effective Bid-Selection Process
Check the Contractor’s Business Listings
Reputable roofing contractors always circulate legitimate business listings, such as websites, onsite advertisements, and listings in local phone directories. Well-established commercial roofing contractors typically fill their websites with visual examples of their work and customer testimonials.
In addition, you can expect a strong roofing contractor to maintain a permanent business address. Lack of a permanent business address is an enormous ref flag that the business is illegitimate. A “fly by night” roofing contractor may do shoddy work or even abscond with you deposit.
Is the Roofing Contractor A Member of the Better Business Bureau in Good Standing?
Bad roofing companies avoid registering with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) because the Bureau investigates all consumer complaints against its members. Good roofers can respond effectively to BBB complaints, but bad roofers rarely have a convincing defense. BBB investigations are thorough and require roofers to defend their positions. Because of their membership with the BBB and good standing, you can trust a roofer to complete solid and honest work.
Does the Contractor Meet State Requirements?
Each state has different requirements for commercial roofers. To find out the requirements in your state, you can check with the state licensing board. When checking with the licensing board, be sure the contractor meets the following criteria:
- The contractor’s licensing remains in force
- Workers’ compensation coverage is active
- General liability insurance coverage is active
- The contractor holds any relevant bond certifications
Check for a Strong Project Management Process
Regardless of whether your project is a one off or you need an ongoing partner, you’ll benefit from a roofer with diverse resources that are large enough to provide consistent service. Consistency is key for meeting project deadlines, achieving quality goals, and maintaining productive maintenance contracts for multiple properties.
A dedicated point of contact is also important. Your time is valuable. By hiring a strong professional, you avoid worries about poor workmanship, the need for rework, and communication problems. A strong roofing contractor will appoint a dedicated contact to answer questions quickly and accurately, report issues proactively, and keep you informed as the project evolves.
Create an Effective Bid Selection Process
Before you start the bid process, you need to conduct some research into several well-qualified candidates. As we have discussed, finding candidates with professional listings, solid BBB records, and strong project management processes are very important. But, once you have compiled a list of several vendors that look great on paper, how do you sift them out?
Firstly, though all vendors on your list will be solid, reputable providers, they are still not all created equal. Some may offer superior service or skill. Because of this, accepting the lowest bid may not yield positive results. The best outcome comes from choosing the vendor that offers the superior value. For example, if one vendor is cheaper but another better guarantees his work, the second option may offer a better value.
To determine who offers the better value, take the following steps:
Ask for Documents
Ask contractors to draw up documents that demonstrate the contractor has a thorough understanding of the project, including its purpose, service, scope, and objective.
These documents should include the following:
- Statements of legal work terms and conditions
- A detailed schedule outlining major installations and important project elements
- Site diagram showing where construction activities will take place
- Plans for quality control testing
- Plans for material delivery and storage
- Installation milestones
- Contingency plans for inclement weather
Emphasize Safety
A well-constructed bid selection process places an emphasis on safety. A strong candidate will be able to clearly outline its focus on safety.
Contractors should be able to demonstrate the following:
- Employment of a designated, qualified safety representative. This representative is responsible for safety training and management and serves on-site during the project
- OSHA compliance plan, especially for roof work and fall protection
- Documented program for any flame-involved activities. These plans must specifically protect against fires caused by the installation phase
The Bottom Line
Choosing a roofing contractor is serious business. Roof repairs and replacements, done correctly, avoid business disruptions and provide lasting value for your business. By qualifying roofers and following an effective bid selection process, you ensure a positive experience and profitable experience.
MacDermott Roofing is an Elite Master Contractor and leading expert of the Duro-Last Roofing System. We have been providing commercial roofing installation, replacement, and repair throughout the Detroit metropolitan area for over 40 years. With a reputation for service, technical skill, and product knowledge, we pride ourselves in delivering and installing the highest quality roofing systems that will last decades. Call us today for a Free Estimate on your commercial roof project!