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Editorial
Don't be victim of fly-by-night roof contractors
Thursday, July 24, 2014
When it rains it pours, but sometimes it
hails.
That was the case recently, and neighborhoods are buzzing with activity, first as adjusters take a look at property damage, then as
crews make repairs.
The recent hailstorm was not as damaging as storms of recent years, although because a second storm came up unexpectedly, a lot of car dealerships were caught off guard and are now offering hail-damaged bargains.
Hailstorms create jobs and economic activity, thanks to insurance settlements, but homeowners who don't know the folks doing
the work, or check their references, may be in for a rude surprise
Too many homeowners have been left with incomplete work or shoddy materials at the hands of fly-by-night outfits.
The National Roofing Contractors Association, a professional trade association serving the public and roofing installation and repair industries, offers some tips:
* Check with your local building inspector or town clerk to see if a building permit is required.
* Check to see what licenses a contractors must have.
* Take two or three bids, and make sure they're based on the same specifications, materials and time. Don't automatically accept
the lowest bid, because it may include inferior products or workmanship.
* Request a proof of insurance for workman's comp, property damage and personal liability.
* Don't sign a blank contract or any with blank lines.
* Don't pay for a job in its entirety or in cash. Never make a final payment or sign an affidavit of release until it is complete and inspected, and any subcontractors have been paid.
Written proposals should include the type of roof covering, manufacturer and color; materials to be used, such as underlayment, and ice dam protection membrane; scope of work to be done, such as removal or replacement of existing roof, flashing use or re-use, ventilation, etc.; repair or replacement of landscaping or interior finishes damaged during the work, and accurate contact information, including address of the contractor.
And those are just a few of the details to be concerned about. For more information, contact local city officials, check references or contact the Better Business Bureau.