What Every Property Owner Should Know
About Hiring A Roofing Contractor

July 10 , 2008 - Orlando, FL

Here are some great tips from Florida Roofing, Sheet Metal, & Air Conditioning Contractors Association (FRSA) that every property owner should note before hiring a roofing contractor:

-The Dotted Line. Get a visibly written proposal or contract that lists exactly what will be done in the project, the cost of the project, and the payment method. Make sure that the proposal/contract includes a written clarification of everything that is included in the warranty, and also what labor and materials are covered.

-Do Your Research. Call your local building department and the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at 850-487-1395 before signing the contract. These departments can verify if the company has an active status license and if any complaints were filed previously.

-Keep it Legal. Before a contractor begins working on your home, be aware of them asking for unusually large sums of money to be paid up front. Also, make sure that the contractor has workers’ compensation and general liability insurance, which is required by law. Be sure to ask for a copy of their certificates. If the contractor has only an exemption, only that individual can do the work. Otherwise, you become liable for damages if someone becomes injured. To validate workers’ compensation coverage and general liability coverage, call the Florida Department of Financial Services at 850-413-1601.

-Proper Permits. Before work begins, make sure that the roofer obtains a building permit that is posted on the property.  Under no circumstances should you pull the permit for owner …unless you are physically doing the work; it’s against the law.

-Unfinished Business. Prior to making a lump sum or final payment, get a “lien waiver” from the contractor; this will provide you with tangible proof that the materials and/or subcontractors have been paid … otherwise you can be held liable for unpaid bills generated on your behalf. If the contractor does not complete any work that is listed on the contract, contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).