Commercial Roof Repairs Critical10 Questions to Ask a Commercial Roof Contractor before You Hire them

If you are a property management company, a commercial property owner, or perhaps on the board of directors for a condo property, roofing repairs  and replacements can be a tough topic to bring up, but it doesn’t have to be. At MidSouth Construction we understand that your primary concern is to make the right decision and to get the project  done with the least amount of inconvenience. This first step is to work with a commercial roof contractor that is reputable and provides quality work.   But how do you start and how can you tell that you have found the right commercial roofing company?  Let’s look at some common questions to ask before making this important decision!

Commercial Roofing Experience

Step 1 to Find the Right Roofing Contractor for Your Commercial project

Look for the best by finding local, certified roofers in your area.  You can do this by searching commercial roof manufacturers such as Carlisle Syntec and GAF Commercial Flat Roofing for certified commercial roofers near me.  Contractors that are certified by commercial roofing manufacturers are selected based on their proven history of knowledge, reliability, professionalism and quality workmanship!  Never trust a commercial roof repair or commercial roof replacement to a roofer that is not certified in this specific area!   

Additionally, most roofing manufacturers require that any certified contractors in their program meet high standards and are required to demonstrate the following:

  • Hold all required state and local licenses.
  • Maintain a minimum of $5,000,000 in general liability insurance.
  • Document proof of workers comp coverage
  • Knowledgeable in OSHA Safety Requirements for Commercial Properties
  • Pass proper screening for financial stability and customer service.

 

Comparing Hiring a Certified Commerical Roofer to a Standard Roofing Company

Replacing or fixing  a commercial roof is not a small job and doesn’t come cheap.  There are many factors that  are involved in this process including the fact that the business occupying the space will be impacted and may even be shut down during the process due to safety.  Commercial roofing systems are also more complicated than residential roofing systems.  It  takes a higher level of skill to identify a commercial roofing solution – whether it is a repair or a  complete roof replacement.  Such as can the existing roofing system be a good candidate for a roofing coating vs a full roof replacement.   

When you work with a qualified  and trusted roofer who is certified as a commercial roofer, you can rest assured that they  know the type of roofing materials that you need and how to address your problem best.  They will  also be up to date on safety and building codes and requirements to guarantee that the job is done  right. You’ll also have long term warranty options that can last up to 30 years that are only  available through certified commercial roofers!  This is the peace of mind that is priceless and will last  for many years to come!

Neglecting Your Commercial RoofChoosing a Commercial Roofing Contractor Checklist

Search for qualified commercial roofers online or get recommendations from other property managers or commercial property owners.   Search for reviews and see if there is a commitment to customer service.  Go to the commercial roofing manufacturer website and search for certified commercial roofers near me.  But, basing your decision purely off recommendations or a gut feeling is risky without knowing all the facts about the contractor.  

10 Questions to Ask A Commercial Roof Contractor Before You Hire Them!

So here are a few questions to ask that will help you hire the right commercial roofing company for your project:

  1.  Can they provide an in-depth understanding of the company’s experience level in the roofing business? Think of this interaction with a contractor as a job interview. This isn’t necessarily asking how long they’ve been in business because many company owners started in the industry with other companies, but you’ll want to understand the total experience level of the contractor.
  2. Does the contractor have insurance coverage? Your contractor should carry insurance to help protect your commercial property against accidental damage.  For commercial roofing, a contractor should carry at least $5MM in general liability insurance along with work comp coverage.  Professional commercial roofers can provide this to you in a document referred to as a COI or a Certificate of Insurance.
  3. Does the contractor have a license or other credentials as required by the local municipality or state? You can always call your city administrative offices to get the requirements. Contractors can, and should, provide you a copy of their license. For commercial roofing, you want to ensure that they hold a General Contractors license at a higher limit than residential roofers. 
  4. Does the contractor perform a thorough inspection of your roof? In addition to checking for storm damage, your roofing contractor should perform a thorough roof inspection to determine if you need a roof repair that may be covered under warranty – or if it is time to consider a full roof replacement.  Are they knowledgeable in all types of commercial roofing products such as roof coatings to ensure you make the best decision?   
  5. Will the contractor take the time to explain how a proper roofing system is beneficial for your property?  In commercial roofing that are many types of roofing systems.  Are they able to give you all of the many options and help you determine which options is best for your specific need?  A knowledgeable commercial roofing can provide options that many save you thousands of dollars!   
  6. Does your contractor explain the difference between their workmanship warranty coverage versus the manufacturer’s warranty?  In commercial roofing it is critical to have an extended warranty that is also backed by the manufacturer!  This is transferrable and provides a lifetime of assurance for the property owner.   
  7. Will they provide references for this contractor’s work? Most professional commercial roofing contractors are eager to share their reference list or show you a gallery of completed projects.
  8.  Is the contractor clear about when he can do your project? While things do happen to delay the start of your project (like the weather), you should have a general understanding of when you can fit into the contractor’s schedule.
  9.  Do you feel the contractor has a good communication style? Do you feel he/she takes the time to answer your questions and listen to your concerns? The bottom line is that regardless of the price differences between contractors, trust your gut about which contractor you feel will best fit for you and your project. If you are having difficulty communicating before the project, it’s probably not going to improve after you sign the contract.
  10.  Can they provide clear payment terms in writing?  A pay schedule is generally required for very large, complex projects. You should be comfortable with the payment arrangements.

By asking these questions you are prepared to make a wise decision on which commercial roofing contractor to hire for your job!  MidSouth Construction is a certified commercial roofing contractor with all major commercial roofing manufacturers.  We are proud to be the top-rated Nashville Roofing Company and appreciate the opportunity to earn your business!  Call us at 615-712-8893!