What Every Property Owner Should Know About Hiring A Roofing Contractor

Benefits of hiring a CRSA or licensed contractor…...YOU KNOW YOUR COVERED!

By using this simple checklist you, a property owner, can be assured that you are complying with the law, protecting yourself against unwarranted insurance claims and have an avenue of recourse in the event that you do not receive what you contracted for:

 

 Get a clearly written proposal or contract that spells out exactly what will be done, the cost and the payment methods. Included in the contract/proposal should be a written explanation of everything that is covered in your warranty.  Be sure that both labor and materials are
covered.Most manufacturers guarantee their materials but this does not mean that the labor for replacement is included. Be sure the labor guarantee is specified separately.

 

Before signing any contract, call your local building department AND the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at 850-487-1395. They can verify that the company has an active status license and advise you of any complaints that have previously been filed.

 

Beware of any requests for unusual large sums of up-front money before beginning work. Make sure the roofer has workers’ compensation insurance, which is required by state law and general liability insurance. As a homeowner, you could be held liable if a worker is injured and there is no workers’ comp coverage. Likewise, if the roofing company has no general liability insurance, any damage to your home or commercial facility becomes your problem. To verify workers’ compensation coverage call 850-488-2333.  Ask for current certificates of insurance for both    types of coverage and call the agent listed on these certificates to verify that coverage is still in effect and has not been cancelled.

 

Require that the contractor obtain the building/roofing permit and that it be posted on the property before work begins. Never apply for a permit for the contractor.

 

Get a “lien waiver” from the contractor upon making a lump sum or final payment for any project.

 

If for any reason the contractor does not fulfill the terms of the contract, you should contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. You may also file a complaint against licensed roofing contractors or report unlicensed contractors by calling the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board at 850-487-1395.

This message is presented in the interest of an informed public by the
Capital City Roofing & Sheet Metal Association, Inc.
CRSA—Florida’s Association of Roofing Professionals
(850) 877-5516       Fax: (850) 878-0289
Website: www.crsaonline.com