Whether your roof needs to be replaced, repaired or inspected, it’s important to hire the right company to do the job. It can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $16,000 to get a roof done, so this type of investment deserves some thought and time put towards finding the best roofing company. You can find the best company for the job by searching online.

Not only should you be looking for a company that’s affordable, but you should also search for one that will do quality work. Search online to find local roofing contractors and discover your options.

Here are five things you should look for when hiring a roofing company.

1. Check For Certifications

Whenever you’re hiring a contractor, you should check their qualifications to ensure the company is legit. Roofing is a dangerous job and you want the workers and your home to be protected during the process. Avoid sketchy contractors by looking for businesses that check all the boxes on designations, insurance and licencing.

Your roofing company should have a manufacturer designation. This proves that they passed minimum requirements to be factory-certified and gives them top designation status. These designations aren’t given to just any company, which is how you know it’s trustworthy and reliable.

When it comes to safety, make sure the company and its employees are properly insured. Everyone should have gone through proper training and safety programs deeming them a worker that’s qualified for the job.

2. See What The Company Has To Offer

Experts suggest you can recoup up to 68 percent of your roof investment – which is why you should carefully think about what you want it to look like. Contractors that don’t provide you with options aren’t looking out for your best interest, especially since a new roof can greatly impact the value of your home. Look for contractors that offer a variety of materials and shingles for customers to choose from.

You should also ask about potential savings, like tax credits or government rebates. A good contractor will be aware and able to inform you about ways that your new roof can offer a return on your investment. For example, you can ask about options like a 10 percent potential tax credit once your roof is updated or upgraded.

Not only should a roofing company provide their client with options, but they should also offer a warranty. This is crucial in case the roofers don’t install it properly or it becomes damaged not long after installation. The longer a warranty is offered, the better protected you’ll be as a customer.

3. Beware Of Forceful Tactics

You should be approaching roofing companies for their business, not the other way around. Be weary of canvassing and selling contractors who perform from door-to-door sales pitches or phone calls. Make sure not to sign an intent letter because you’ll want to keep your options open before committing to a company.

Be careful with your money when considering a roofing company. Never choose one that asks you to pay more than a one third deposit before the work is completed. This is a sign of a potential scam that could leave you with less money and an unfinished roof. Pay with a credit card or check, but not cash.

Don’t give into roofing companies that are pressuring you to hire them. They shouldn’t be giving you a hard time during the consultation and making the experience more stressful. Instead, choose a company that is more approachable and pleasant to deal with.

4. Read Reviews

Always pick a roofer that has a history of satisfied clients, whether it be from online reviews or referrals. The best way to find this out is by reading reviews. If a customer had a bad experience with a contractor, it will be easy to find out why online and prevent you from experiencing the same thing.

Another type of review to look for is one from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). This will give you an unbiased report of the company’s satisfactory ratings, which you might not be able to get from a company’s website. Contractors have to maintain a certain standard to retain a certification, so only look for companies listed on the website.

Ask any friends or neighbours in your area if they’ve roof work done lately. They could refer you to a reputable company, and even let you know which ones to avoid.

5. Compare Roofing Companies Online

The best way to explore your roofing options is by searching online. You’ll be able to find local companies, read reviews and see what they have to offer you as a client. If your first impression of a company online is negative, don’t question your judgement and move onto the next one.

Ask for multiple quotes before settling on a roofer. Getting estimates online will help you find top rated professionals and compare their services for free. Just remember to not only look for roofing companies that have good prices, but also one that will do a quality job.