"Experts in the science of quality roofing." We need a new roof; what do we do?
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Message to Homeowners:

BEWARE of RIP-OFF ROOFERS

Every year, there are complaints from Homeowners and Professional Roofing Contractors about this sector of the Home Improvement Industry. Some typical complaints or questions are:

  • The Roofer took my deposit and disappeared.
  • How can we "professional" Contractors compete with the "fly-by-nighters" and the "low-ballers"?
  • What is the criteria of quality that a Home Renovator, follow?
  • What's with all the signs, everywhere, from these Contractors?
  • Is there no enforcement of regulations for Home Improvements?

Unfortunately, many of these issues are brought on to Homeowners, themselves. "Looking for a deal" or "trying to do the job cheap" is the root of the problem. However, don't mistake this for being "ripped-off" by a high price, either. Deposits are required by most Contractors - up to 30% - never give more. That is common, but don't give "cash deposits". Write a cheque and request a receipt/statement or use a credit card.

All Renovation Contractors that perform work within the Cities of Toronto and Mississauga are required to have a License. The cities employ inspectors to investigate complaints: from inferior workmanship or poor standards of specification, to a business practice view. Whether, a permit is required or not - for a particular project - the minimum standards of the Building Code are required by most manufacturers, in order for the warranties to apply. When shortcuts are taken, to keep the cost low, it usually means that the product warranties have been voided.

When you see signs along public roadsides, consider this: cities have by-laws against these signs being on public property. They become a nuisance, contribute to city litter/garbage collection, etc. Signs on the lawns of projects-in-progress or for a short time following are fine - they are on your private property and you may give permission, or not to the contractor, to have them there.

In order to get a proper Quote or Proposal for your "roof project, the following should be your minimum commitment to the process:

  • Request Quotes, Estimates or Proposals from two to four reputable contractors. Choose contractors that you see working in your neighbourhood all of the time. You may also phone the Licensing Commission to see if there are any complaints on file or to make sure they have a current License. [Don't go crazy and ask for five or more quotes - you will only get confused and waste the time of yourself and other busy people.] Don't deal with those who have phone numbers only; you want to know their place of business, exists.
  • Be precise with your directions or instructions to the contractors. If you don't know what you need, tell them that. The good ones are set-up to educate you. [Take time to do some research > www.certainteed.com; www.gaf.com; etc.]
  • A good Proposal will state in precise detail, what is included. It may also show a "base price", along with "optional - extra cost items". [There are usually two categories of optional items: the things which will improve the quality of the specification, and architectural shingles, which will enhance the appearance and sometimes the quality of the roof.]
  • Don't tell them to leave the Quote in the mailbox and don't accept that suggestion from contractors. Always request a meeting or interview. Otherwise, you will not know the consultant, the company, nor they, you. [You must be prepared to spend some time in making an informed decision - a roof project is not like buying gas for your car.]
  • Professional Roofing Contractors will sit with you, ask a series of questions, discuss your particular needs, present their Proposal and offer other suggestions or options. [Be wary of those who want to rush through or resist this step. Many contractors think they can only get your business by having the cheapest price.]
  • The Interview should cover these main points: 
    • the consultant's and the company's history, including credentials, insurance certificates - injury and property damage liability, and references
    • question and information time between the consultant and the homeowner
    • the specification and products used to make up your roof system
    • the disposal, cleanup and problem solving methods
    • the schedule and duration of the work involved
    • the cost and the terms of agreement, along with any financing options [that's correct - the cost should be the last item - YOU NEED VALUE]