How to Choose Roofers

Make a list of attributes you want in a roofing contractor. Key points should include how well the contractor communicates with his clients, quality of work, ability to meet deadlines, price, how invasive the work is to the client's privacy and quality of life, and, of course, quality of work.

Talk to local friends, family and neighbors about any roofing work they've had done recently. First-person word-of-mouth advice from trusted sources is a very powerful tool when choosing a roofer. Make sure to ask them about points on your list.

Visit your local chamber of commerce to gather a list of local roofers. You'll want to work with a local roofer because her reputation is on the line in the local community.

Call the better business bureau or visit their website. Check for any complaints or comments regarding the list of contractors you are accumulating. If a glaring complaint or praise comes up, note it.

Call your list of roofers and invite them to make an estimate. Get several estimates and compare the cost.

Whittle the list down to a few select roofing contractors using the advice and price quotes you've gathered. Do not exclude the more expensive roofers at this point.

Interview the roofing contractors. You'll want a confident and upbeat contractor who is excited to work on your home. Ask them questions; look for quick and thorough responses. Note the impression you get from each one.

Decide which contractor to hire. Do not always hire the contractor who charges the least and do not mistake value for a high price. Weigh all of the information you've gathered in the process.