Why do roofing insurance and certifications matter? While most states require roofing companies to be insured and certified, a lot of roofers still operate without these important credentials. There are many risks in hiring unqualified companies, including low-quality installation and zero coverage for accidents or damage that may occur during the replacement process.
Even if you have a close friend or neighbor who claims to know how to install a roof and volunteers to help you with your upgrade, it won’t change the fact that being uninsured and uncertified is a huge risk. We’ve all heard horror stories of homeowners who ended up shouldering the medical bills of well-meaning friends who got injured mid-project. Then there are contractors who settle for the use of substandard products because they don’t have the skills, training or certifications required to offer or carry the top brands.
Below, we take a closer look at the importance of roofing insurance and certifications.
Insurance Coverage
Residential roofing companies should carry at minimum two types of insurance policies: liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Liability insurance covers damage to your property while the project is ongoing. This absolves you from any responsibility and the need to shell out personal funds should anything go awry over the course of the roofing project. If the roofer says they have liability insurance, ask to see the certificate to confirm that the coverage is still valid.
Manufacturer Certifications
The truth is, you don’t need to be manufacturer-certified to perform roofing work, but finding a contractor who is certified by the best brands is certainly a big plus. Certified roofers will have undergone advanced training with the manufacturer, and thus will be more familiar with the installation and repair process of your particular roof. Hiring a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™ like Spicer Bros. Construction can prove that. Here are some of the advantages of working with a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster:
- Superior Products – Certified roofers are authorized to provide you with CertainTeed’s full range of high-quality products, such as Landmark® and Patriot shingles.
- Top-Notch Workmanship – By working with a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, you can be assured of the superb skills and knowledge of the contractor.
- Strong Warranties – Contractors certified by CertainTeed offer some of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry, such as the brand’s SureStart™ PLUS extended warranty coverage.
Aside from being insured and certified, your roofing contractor should also be experienced and established. We’ll talk about these important qualities in the second installment of this blog series.
