Hiring a roofing contractor can feel like a minefield, especially when you've got storm damage or an old roof that's just given up the ghost. You want someone reliable, someone who does good work, and someone who won't disappear with your money. I've been doing this a long time here in Derby, and I've seen it all. Here's my playbook for finding a solid roofer.
What to Ask Before They Even Touch Your Roof
You've got to ask the right questions upfront. It's not about being pushy; it's about protecting your biggest investment. Don't let anyone rush you.
Are you licensed and insured? This isn't optional. They should have general liability insurance and workers' compensation. Ask for proof. A certificate of insurance directly from their insurer, not just a card they printed themselves. If they can't provide it, or hem and haw, show 'em the door. You don't want to be on the hook if someone gets hurt on your property or if they damage your neighbor's fence.
How long have you been in business in Derby? A fly-by-night operation isn't what you want. A company that's been around for years, especially through a few Kansas storm seasons, has proven they can weather more than just hail. It shows they're committed to the community.
Can you provide local references? And I mean recent ones. Talk to their past customers. Ask if the job was completed on time, if there were unexpected costs, and if they'd hire them again. A good contractor will be proud to share these.
What's your warranty? You need to understand both the manufacturer's warranty on the materials and the contractor's warranty on their workmanship. A solid workmanship warranty, usually 5-10 years, tells you they stand behind their crew's work.
Who will be doing the actual work? Is it their own crew, or do they sub everything out? There's nothing inherently wrong with subcontractors, but you need to know who's ultimately responsible for the quality and safety on your property.
How do you handle permits and inspections? In Derby, you need permits for most roof replacements. A reputable contractor handles all of this for you. They pull the permit, schedule the inspections, and make sure everything is up to code. If they tell you it's your job, or that you don't need one, that's a huge red flag.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
A quote isn't just a number. It's a detailed plan. If it's just a single line item with a dollar amount, walk away. Here's what a good quote from Derby Roofing Company, or any other reputable outfit, should include:
Detailed Scope of Work: What exactly are they doing? Tearing off old layers? How many? Replacing rotten decking? What kind of underlayment? Ventilation? Flashing details? Every component should be listed.
Material Specifications: Don't just say