It does not matter if you own a house, a commercial building, or an industrial building you will have some type of roof structure that has to be cared for. If you are simply looking for someone to handle the routine maintenance, you have time to shop around for the best contractor. But, what if there is a storm and your roof starts to leak?

Having a problem with your roof that requires immediate attention can put you in a very vulnerable position and susceptible to less than professional roofing contractors who have your wallet in mind instead of solving your roofing problem. What you do in a case like this makes the difference between getting a quality repair done at a reasonable price or being taken advantage of by unscrupulous contractors who perform shoddy workmanship.

Finding the best contractor can be confusing with all the choices available. In fact, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) receives over 3 million inquiries annually on roofing companies alone. Here are some tips you can use to help you in your search.

Do your research before making the call

Phone your insurance company and see what coverage you have before calling any roofing company. They may be able to make recommendations as to who to call in your area as well.

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Decisions made in a panic situation are often not the best. It is easy to fall prey to a fast-talking salesman who is after your money. Do not let anyone pressure you into making a decision on the spot. Never sign a contract without getting other estimates unless you are sure the company is reputable. Take a pro-active stance instead of a reactive one.

Get at least three estimates

Your roof may be leaking, and you may be in a panic but take the time to call three different companies and explain your situation. They most likely will come out the same day to inspect your roof and give you an estimate.

Check references

Any reputable company will be happy to give you references. If they don’t, cross them off your list of options. When you get the references, call them. Most people who ask for references never make the call. This is a good opportunity to find out about the company and what they are like to deal with. Make sure the references given had work done at least one year prior to your call.

Check licenses

In Ontario, a commercial building owner is required to use contractors who are certified by WSIB at a minimum, or you are libel for injuries on your job site. Roofing contractors should also be certified in the type of roof they are replacing or repairing as well as safety.

Avoid door to door salesmen

Some are legitimate and do very good work. However, if a salesman knocks at your door and says they are in the area and have some materials left over they could use on your roof at a reduced price, be very wary. Check to see they have a business license, a permanent business location, and proper certifications.

Get everything in writing

The signed contract is your guarantee of workmanship should something go wrong. Never seal a deal with just a handshake. Make sure the contract has the company name and address on it as well as license numbers. Always ask for a copy at the time you sign it.

Trust your instinct

If you feel that something is wrong with the contractor or the salesperson doesn’t seem legit, do not be afraid to say no and find someone else to do the work. Do not fall for statements like your roof is about to cave in, or they have never seen such a poor condition of a roof. These can be sales tactics to rope you into a contract for unnecessary work. When in doubt, take a breather and think about what you are getting into. Your roof may be leaking, but if it is not repaired correctly, there is no point getting it fixed by that contractor as it will only cost you more in the end.