Baldwin Roofing’s Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Roof in Florida

When choosing the best roofing company, it’s essential to do your research and choose a reputable and reliable provider. Don’t settle for just any contractor – trust the experts with the experience, knowledge, and track record to deliver the desired results.

Before you choose a roofing contractor, make sure to ask the following questions:

1. Check on Licensing and Insurance
2. Pay Attention to Price Breakdowns
3. Watch the Inspection Process
4. Ask About Realistic Timelines
5. Don’t Sign Direction to Pay Docs
6. Consider the Office Staff
7. Review the Reputation and Certifications

1. Check on Licensing and Insurance

It’s critical to ensure your contractor has the proper roofing license and insurance coverage required by the state of Florida. This license ensures the contractor has met specific educational and training requirements and has passed an examination demonstrating knowledge and competency in the field. Additionally, a licensed roofing contractor is more likely to provide quality work and follow proper safety protocols. They are also more likely to be up-to-date with the latest building codes and regulations.

Licensed roofing contractors will also have liability and worker’s compensation insurance, protecting you as the homeowner from financial responsibility in case of accidents or injuries that may occur on the job. Working with an uninsured contractor could leave you liable for any damages or injuries arising on your property.

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Did You Know? In Florida, a roofing license can be leased to any individual on behalf of a company, whether or not that individual is involved in the actual business (as an owner, operator, manager, etc.). Best practices suggest that the license holder should be involved in the roofing business.

2. Pay Attention to Price Breakdowns

Remember that while a higher price may indicate better quality, this is only sometimes true. Researching and comparing different roofing contractors is important to ensure you are getting a fair price for the services you need.

A highly reputable roofing contractor with experience and certifications may charge more due to higher service demand. However, the cost of a roof replacement is mainly determined by the materials and equipment used, as well as the size and complexity of the project.

The cost of materials and equipment can vary greatly depending on the type and quality of the materials used. The size and complexity of the roofing project can also impact the cost. Larger or more complex projects may require more time, materials, and manpower, which can increase the project’s cost. If you shop around for prices and notice that a company is well below the average, there may be a reason.

We recommend getting inspections from three roofing companies. Once you receive estimates to review, be sure to follow up with each company to ask the following questions for further clarification:

• What is the total price of the job?
• How soon after the job is complete are the payments due?
• Does the price estimate include the removal of the old roof?
• Were all code upgrades accounted for?
• What, if any, are the hidden costs? (plywood, etc.)
• Will you document with before and after photos?
• What financing options are available?

Ultimately, cost alone will not determine the quality of work and should not be the determinant factor when choosing a roofing contractor. Professionalism, transparency, and professionalism should also weigh heavily on your decision.

3. Watch the Inspection Process

Yes, there are benefits for roofing contractors who use drone technology to perform inspections; it is far more convenient to remain grounded and still can obtain measurements for your roof. At the same time, it is essential to acknowledge the downfalls of this technique.

There are some things that satellite measurements can’t capture but would be easily identified by a more comprehensive assessment. This can lead to unforeseen charges that could have been caught early and accounted for in the initial estimate.

A comprehensive roof inspection doesn’t rely on technology. The inspector will check the interior of the building for signs of roof leaks, water damage, or other issues such as mold, rot, or mildew. This includes checking the attic area for proper ventilation, insulation, and signs of moisture.

Next is the visual inspection of the roof surface, checking for damage or deterioration, such as missing or broken shingles, cracks, or other damage. The roof should be assessed for structural integrity, checking for sagging, settling, or other signs of damage that could compromise the safety of the building. The flashing, gutters, and downspouts should also be examined for signs of wear or damage.

4. Ask About Realistic Timelines

A company that is too quick with turnaround times may not have enough business. Although seasonal availability does shift, most reputable roofing companies will require a two to four-week waiting period before a roofing specialist can come to your home and perform an inspection. The wait times can be even longer when scheduling a start date for your roofing project. Several factors affect this, including city permitting timelines, unfavorable weather, and other extraneous factors. Please be aware of any contractor promising instant results.

The availability of roofing materials is one of the most significant variables impacting the roofing process. If certain materials are back-ordered or out of stock, the project may be delayed until the materials are available. Additionally, if any unexpected structural issues are uncovered, they will need to be addressed before work can continue, adding time and cost to the project.

Overall, it is essential to get a realistic timeline of the project and what factors may impact that timeline, working closely with your roofing contractor throughout the process to minimize any potential delays or issues.

5. Don’t Sign Direction to Pay Docs

A “Direction to Pay” is a document signed by a policyholder that allows a third party, such as a roofer, to seek payment directly from the policyholder’s insurance company. While this may sound convenient, it is highly problematic. By signing the document, the insured agrees to pay whatever portion of the roofer’s invoice that is not paid by the insurance company, despite being assured even that the policy would cover the work.

These “Direction to Pay” documents and Assignment of Benefits (AOBs) have long been part of Florida’s insurance marketplace. However, abuses in the way they were being used in the market have driven up costs for homeowners across the state due to unnecessary litigation associated with these claims.

In 2022, it was voted to ban AOBs in Florida, but Direction to Pay documents are still widespread in the marketplace. When signing a “Direction to Pay,” consumers should be aware that they may become involved in the third-party vendor’s lawsuit against the insurance company if the third party and company dispute that they may become involved in the third-party vendor’s lawsuit against the insurance company if the third party and company are in conflict over the payment amount of the claim.

6. Consider the Office Staff

Choosing a fully-staffed roofing company with a brick-and-mortar location allows multiple contact points to assist during the project. Office staff should be responsive, knowledgeable, and transparent. There are plenty of one or two-person roofing operations, but customer service is often overlooked.

It’s not too much for a customer to expect someone who actively listens, asks questions, and offers realistic solutions promptly. A trusted roofing company will have a dedicated support staff to inform you of every step in the roofing process. Instead of only having one point of contact who may or may not answer the phone, you always know someone at the office can get back to you with answers.

7. Review the Reputation and Certifications

The internet can provide great insight into what type of experience you can expect, and checking out a company’s reviews is often the quickest way to get the reassurance you seek. Some of the best places to find reviews and see examples of work are through Google Reviews, Better Business Bureau accreditation, and social media accounts.

Working with a manufacturer-certified contractor is important because, in most cases, the manufacturer has a vetting process for any company awarded the certification. For example, a GAF MasterElite contractor must be in good financial standing with a certain amount of general liability and workers comp. insurance coverage.

Did You Know? Distributors and suppliers can place liens on properties if the contractor hasn’t paid their bills, putting the building owner at risk. Property owners will receive a letter from the distributor if they can place a lien on your property. If so, you should request a release of the lien before the final payment to the roofing contractor.

Choose a Roofing Contractor You Can Trust

When choosing a roofing company, it’s essential to do your research and select a reputable and experienced team. A reliable roofing contractor will provide quality services, use high-quality materials, and offer transparent pricing.

Don’t settle for less when protecting your home and investment. Choose a roofing company with a proven track record of success and customer satisfaction. Contact Baldwin Roofing Company today to learn more about our services and how we can help keep your roof in top shape for years to come!