If your roof is leaking or simply showing signs of wear and tear, it’s time to start exploring your options for roofing services. But with a quick Google search for roofers in London, Liverpool, or anywhere else in the UK, you’ll be met with an overwhelming number of results – each one claiming to offer exactly what you need.
So, how do you cut through the noise and find a roofing contractor who is reliable, skilled, and fairly priced. How can you be sure they’ll meet your expectations while staying compliant with industry standards?
In this blog, we’ll share key insights to help you make an informed decision. With these tips, you’ll be able to find the right roofing contractor – whether you’re looking for roofers in London, Liverpool, or anywhere else in the UK.
Let’s get started!
Accreditations and Insurance
Once you’ve compiled a shortlist of roofing contractors that seem to meet your requirements, check whether they are insured and hold any industry-specific accreditations or certifications.
Ensuring that your roofers are members of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors and possess relevant health and safety certifications, along with proper insurance, not only provides you with peace of mind but also assures you that the work will be completed safely and to a high standard.
Just imagine – if you hired a roofer without adequate insurance and an accident occurred on your property, you could be facing much more than just roofing costs.
Experience and Expertise
There is certainly no harm in supporting new businesses, and they should be encouraged. However, when it comes to something as significant and costly as your roof, it often pays to choose a contractor with extensive experience. A well-established career or a large, skilled team can provide greater reassurance that your roofing issue will be resolved to a high standard.
By taking a closer look at their case studies and areas of expertise, you can determine whether they have the skills to handle your specific repairs or if it might be better to seek assistance elsewhere. Keep in mind that some roofers may specialise in asphalt roofs, for example, but have less experience with metal roofing.
Reviews and References
Think about all the times you’ve booked a holiday, visited the cinema, purchased a car, or dined at a restaurant – the chances are, you checked the reviews first. Do the same when selecting your roofing contractors. Look at what they are praised for and any common complaints. While some concerns may not be relevant to your specific roofing job, reviews can give you a clearer understanding of the company.
Don’t just rely on the company’s website – check forums, Google, and other review platforms. See if they proudly promote their customer feedback or highlight affiliations with Checkatrade on their site.
Additionally, take the time to ask for references. If you are undertaking a complete roof overhaul, don’t hesitate to request examples of similar work they have completed.
Get Quotes From Several Roofers
Some roofing contractors may promise low prices or quick completion times, but occasionally, unexpected fees or hidden charges are added on. To avoid this, obtain three or four written estimates before committing to a contractor. This will allow you to assess what is being charged for each aspect of the job and gain a clearer understanding of the expected costs. If one quote seems excessively high or unusually cheap compared to the others, it may be best to steer clear.
You want value for money, professionalism, honesty, and, of course, a high-quality job. As the saying goes, if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. So, compare your estimates carefully and see what stands out.
Find Out About Warranties And Guarantees
Most roofing contractors will offer some form of guarantee or warranty as a way of backing the quality of their work. Some may offer one year, while others may offer ten! It’s worth doing some research, as the cheaper contractor you found may come with a shorter guarantee.
If something goes wrong with the roof once the warranty expires, you could find yourself paying for repairs all over again with a different roofing contractor. With a longer warranty, however, if the roof is faulty, your original contractor will be obliged to come and fix any issues at no extra cost to you.
Assess The Professionalism
Many companies may present a professional image on their website, but if they fail to deliver that same level of professionalism in person, it’s worth reconsidering your choice. If phone calls are met with a dismissive tone, quotes aren’t provided when promised, or questions are answered with overly complicated jargon, you may have found a roofer who isn’t truly invested in your project. Now, think about how they might behave while working on your home!
If you can engage with your roofers and find that queries are answered promptly, you’re off to a good start.
Hiring a roofing contractor doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the guidance above, you’ll be able to identify which roofers stand by their claims and which ones may be charging more than necessary.
After all, this is not the kind of job you want done to a poor standard. The costs of rectifying any issues could end up being more than the initial job itself!
