How to Choose a Good Roofer

Diagnose the problem with your roof to the best of your abilities so that you can discuss the problem with prospective roofers. If the roof leaks in a small area, you may just need a section patched. However, if the roof is old and leaking in multiple places, it may need to be replaced. Get the advice of a friend who has experience with home repairs or climb a ladder to take a look at the roof yourself if you can do so safely.

Ask friends or neighbors for recommendations of roofers who they have used and who have done a good job. Ask if the roofer was on time each day and if he completed the job within the time frame that he quoted before starting the job. You can also ask about his prices if your friend is comfortable discussing money, or you can just ask how the final cost compared to the roofer's quote. If his cost was higher than his quote, find out why. If the job turned out to have unforeseen complications that made it more expensive, this isn't necessarily a strike against the roofer.

Read online reviews of the roofers that have been recommended to you. You can also do a general search for roofers in your area if you couldn't get any recommendations. Websites such as Servicemagic.com, Angieslist.com or Yelp.com allow you to read reviews of local services that are written by previous customers. Some of these sites can also help match you with a local roofer who specializes in the repairs that you need done.

Call at least three roofers once you have found some that have good recommendations. Ask each one to give you a quote based on the job you need done, including how much he thinks the job will cost, how long it will take and when he is able to start work. If possible, get each one to come to your home to see the roof so you can get his most accurate estimate. You should also ask about his guarantee policy. For example, if the roof starts leaking again after he has fixed it, ask if he will fix it again for free. Ask to see photos of previous work and references so you can contact other customers about their experiences.

Compare all the quotes against the recommendations you received. Don't automatically choose the roofer with the lowest estimate. Service Magic suggests placing more importance on a roofer's skill and experience rather than on his cost. The roofer with the lowest prices may be just starting out and not have much experience, or his prices may be low because he cuts corners. Take all the information you've gathered into account before choosing which roofer to use.