Verify your Roofing Contractor
![Ramon Guitard](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fcxgcwnng%2Fproduction%2Ff0938b6ad6164d77022b1349acf43abaf2644cc7-3000x2000.png%3Frect%3D500%2C0%2C2000%2C2000%26w%3D96%26h%3D96%26fit%3Dcrop%26auto%3Dformat&w=256&q=75)
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![Ramon Guitard](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fcxgcwnng%2Fproduction%2Ff0938b6ad6164d77022b1349acf43abaf2644cc7-3000x2000.png%3Frect%3D500%2C0%2C2000%2C2000%26w%3D96%26h%3D96%26fit%3Dcrop%26auto%3Dformat&w=256&q=75)
Florida's sunshine and hurricane season go hand-in-hand, making a sturdy roof your home's first line of defense. But with so many roofing contractors out there, choosing the right one can feel like navigating a tropical storm blindfolded. Fear not, fellow Floridians! This 2024 guide will equip you with the knowledge to find a reputable roofer to keep your home safe and dry, no matter the weather.
Step 1: License & Insurance
![Cover image](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fcxgcwnng%2Fproduction%2F2891cc6ed7ac8ed1bae57a83d7577cf163279e76-2032x1562.png%3Frect%3D0%2C201%2C2032%2C1161%26w%3D3500%26h%3D2000%26fit%3Dcrop%26auto%3Dformat&w=3840&q=75)
Don't trust your roof to an unlicensed contractor, even if the cost is way below market value. Verifying a roofing company's license and insurance is crucial. Here's how:
1. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR):
![Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation business license lookup](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fcxgcwnng%2Fproduction%2Fecb612ae12716dd78bed22d318e36b18edc7f321-2278x1446.png%3Frect%3D0%2C72%2C2278%2C1302%26w%3D3500%26h%3D2000%26fit%3Dcrop%26auto%3Dformat&w=3840&q=75)
- Visit the DBPR website: https://www.myfloridalicense.com/
- Search for the contractor's name or license number.
- Check for active status, disciplinary actions, and any complaints filed.
2. Insurance:
![Acord Certificate of Liability Insurance Document](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fcxgcwnng%2Fproduction%2F2adecd8c089385865cc92000cfb825bed1598dcb-6047x3402.png%3Frect%3D1232%2C305%2C3945%2C2254%26w%3D3500%26h%3D2000%26fit%3Dcrop%26auto%3Dformat&w=3840&q=75)
- Ensure the contractor has adequate general liability and worker's compensation insurance.
- Ask for certificates of insurance and verify coverage amounts.
Remember: Never pay upfront in full, and always get everything in writing, including estimates, contracts, and warranties.
Step 2: Research
![Cover image](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fcxgcwnng%2Fproduction%2Fad321f18f4d158b5911924c3470a37478c30264b-5184x3456.jpg%3Frect%3D0%2C247%2C5184%2C2962%26w%3D3500%26h%3D2000%26fit%3Dcrop%26auto%3Dformat&w=3840&q=75)
A license and insurance are essential, but they're just the foundation. Here's how to dig deeper:
- Get Recommendations: Ask for referrals from the business. Positive word-of-mouth is a powerful endorsement.
- Online Reviews: Check review platforms like Google My Business, Angie's List, and Yelp. Read reviews carefully, looking for both positive and negative experiences.
- Ask Questions: Don't be shy! Interview potential contractors about their experience, warranties, roofing materials used, and the scope of work involved.
- Get Multiple Estimates: Compare quotes from at least three contractors to ensure you get a fair price.
- Trust Your Gut: If something feels off about a contractor, walk away. Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who communicates their plans.
Bonus Tip: Look for certifications like GAF Master Elite® or BBB Accredited Business. These designations indicate expertise and commitment to quality.
![GAF Master Elite & BBB Credited Business badges](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fcxgcwnng%2Fproduction%2F3fea7dc74e1d3928853247da31ca076044fc2d59-940x788.png%3Frect%3D73%2C0%2C795%2C454%26w%3D3500%26h%3D2000%26fit%3Dcrop%26auto%3Dformat&w=3840&q=75)