When Should Your Roofer Ask For Money?

Roof Payment Guidelines

• Never, EVER, pay for your entire roofing project upfront. If you are asked to pay in full before the project has begun, you need to RUN AWAY from that company – and FAST!
• If your roof is an insurance claim, you should expect to pay your deductible upfront before work begins.
• If your roof is an out-of-pocket replacement, you should expect to pay a deposit upon acceptance of the agreement. Generally, this should not exceed half of the cost of your project and will depend on any custom-ordered materials needed for your specific job.
• If you are having a minor roof repair completed, generally these repairs are expected to be paid for before the repairs are completed. For major roof repairs, it is customary to pay half down and half upon completion.

Opting for Secure Payment Methods

When making payments, it’s crucial to choose secure and traceable methods. Opt for checks or credit cards, as they provide clear records. Avoid paying with cash; it’s harder to document and makes any potential disputes challenging to navigate. Having a traceable payment method offers both parties a clear financial trail and can serve as proof of payment if required.

By following these guidelines and using secure payment methods, you ensure a smooth transaction process for your roofing project while protecting your financial interests.

When is it reasonable for roofers to ask for the remaining balance?

It’s common practice for roofers to request the remaining balance once the project is completed.  But, what steps should you take before making the final payment for a roofing project?

Before you hand over the final payment for a roofing project, there are several crucial steps to ensure your satisfaction and protect your investment.

1. Inspect the Completed Work: Conduct a thorough walk-through of the finished project with your project manager. Look for missed details or areas that might require further attention. 

2. Request a Final Invoice: Obtain a final invoice that outlines the agreed scope of work. This helps confirm that everything agreed upon in the contract has been completed.

3. Ensure All Agreements Are Met: Review your contract and verify that the agreed scope of work has been done. This includes any extended manufacturer warranties or guarantees made by the contractor.

4. Address Any Concerns or Issues: If you notice any problems or areas that don’t meet your expectations, address them with the contractor promptly so they can correct these items.

5. Confirm Cleanup and Disposal: Ensure that the contractor has removed all debris and materials from the site, leaving your property clean and tidy. 

If there are still issues that need to be addressed, you may want to withold a portion of the balance as a retainer until those items are corrected.  By following these steps, you can confidently conclude your roofing project has been completed and final payment can be released.