Questions to Ask When Hiring a Roofer

HIRING A ROOFER can be a stressful process currently in the UK. Without any form of licensing, regulation or professional registration, consumers need to be cautious. We hear of ‘cowboys’ and rogue traders every day. So how do make sure you are hiring a trustworthy and reliable professional roofer that will do a good job?

Roofing Today has published advice for consumers on choosing a roofing contractor here. But what questions should you be asking when it comes to that first tradesperson’s visit to your home before hiring a roofer?

Do you charge a callout fee or for travel?

Some tradespeople charge a callout fee or have a more highly chargeable first hour. This is to cover travel, especially if they have to factor in parking costs or long distances. If you are looking for a quick repair, this might be a significant portion of the cost. While this might be business as usual in London and large cities, it’s important that you are aware of these potential charges, so you’re not facing any unexpected costs.

Do you have references?

It’s reassuring to know that your roofer is reliable. There’s no better way than getting recommendations from your own family and friends. However, a reputable roofer should also be happy to connect you with their previous customers.

Do you have a roofing specialism?

Roofers will have a good level of knowledge across their trade. However, you might want to ask if they have specific experience in the job you are hiring for.

Some roofers specialise in certain roofing types, such as flat roofs or bituminous installations. If your job is particularly tricky or niche, it’s beneficial to hire one that has direct experience. Certain types of work – such as heritage and conservation – benefit from Level 3 qualifications and require compliance with conservation regulations.

Does your quote include everything?

Discuss the quote with your roofer to ensure that it covers everything. If it doesn’t, ask for a total figure, preferably in writing. Some tradespeople may not include all materials, VAT or warranty costs in their quote. This may lead to an unpleasant surprise when the final bill comes in.

What’s the timeline and what hours do you expect to work?

It’s wise to discuss timelines before the job begins, so you know how to plan. Remember to find out what hours the roofer intends to work. It’s also important to know if they charge more for weekend/evening work, and what their policy is should there be a problem or complication during work that extends the job.

Do you include clean up and disposal services?

This will vary from tradesperson to tradesperson. It’s vital to ask the question so you can manage expectations or get the service, such as skip hire, added to the quote if it’s not already included. Disposal of materials now incur extra costs for recycling and it’s important this is factored in upfront.

Is there enough information about the job?

A roofer can often only give you an accurate cost when the roof has been fully stripped and the condition of the underlying structure is exposed.

Ask your roofer about what happens if additional problems are revealed during the job. This should mean the roofer is confident that they can give you the lowest price because they know you are prepared for the costs of unexpected problems should they arise.

Roofers should be happy to explain unexpected problems, provide evidence of them with photos, and put that everything in writing to reassure you that they are genuine.

Can I provide any further information?

Specific information you can provide is useful to gain a realistic estimate of the cost and time of the job. For example:

• If there is parking nearby
• If the neighbours are prepared to grant access if needed
• Whether any facilities such as outside toilets or driveways can be used

If it’s an emergency…

While time is of the essence in an emergency, it’s still necessary to communicate with your tradesperson. This way you’ll know what to expect and avoid misunderstandings.

Is your emergency callout charge/rates included?

Emergency repairs following a storm, for example, are sometimes unavoidable. Ask upfront for a full cost. Some roofers may not include the emergency callout charge in the original costs, but most will have one, or an adjusted hourly rate.

Are you insured for this specific job (and how much for)?

Failing to check this could mean that you are liable for any issues should they not be. If bad workmanship causes leaks or other damage, and the tradesperson is not insured, it’s likely your home insurance won’t pay out.

Does the quote include the cost of scaffolding?

Roofing is risky work because it takes place at height. The biggest cause of workplace fatalities in Britain is from falls.

Therefore, the Health and Safety Executive expects roofers to assess the risks of working at height before starting the job. HSE expects roofers to only work from a ladder when the job will take minutes. This means a scaffolding will be needed for longer repairs and for a new roof. The cost of this will vary hugely, depending on what type of property and access is required.

While it might be tempting to go with the lowest quote, it might be the lowest because the tradesperson is not quoting for a scaffold. This leaves you liable as the client for appointing an incompetent contractor. Plus – ask yourself – how would you feel if someone working on your roof fell and was left permanently disabled or was killed? Don’t be tempted to cut corners when hiring a roofer!

In conclusion, there are many questions to ask before hiring a roofer. Make a checklist, get the answers in writing and if you are not satisfied – move on! The National Federation of Roofing Contractors website is a good place to start to look for a reputable roofer in your area.

>> Read more about hiring roofing contractors in the news