How to Choose a Roofer in Virginia
This article was put together to help homeowners start their journey of finding the right roofing contractor for their home and sleep well at night knowing they have a roof built with quality and care!
Download our Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor In Virginia checklist to help you make and informed decision for your roof.
We've all heard the horror stories—homeowners paying thousands for roof repairs that never happen or, worse, being left with more damage than before. In Virginia, these aren't just cautionary tales; they're real-life nightmares.
Take the case of Chelsie Nelson from Franklin County.
In 2020, she entrusted Nathan Jay Laurain of HomeFront Renovations with her roof repair, handing over her insurance checks as payment. Laurain vanished without completing the work, leaving Nelson's roof in disrepair and her insurance canceled. It took four years before a local company stepped in to help her out of this ordeal https://www.wdbj7.comhttps://www.wdbj7.com.
In Chesterfield County near Richmond, the Shah family faced a similar plight.
They paid tens of thousands for home repairs to an unlicensed contractor, only to find the work was done incorrectly. The contractor was eventually found guilty of violating licensing regulations, but the family was left to deal with the aftermath .CBS 6 News Richmond WTVR
If you're roofer doesn't follow the law, they won't follow through with your roof either! In Virginia, a Home Improvement Contractor License (HIC) is required for roofing contractors performing work on existing homes, like repairs or replacements, that are over $1,000. You will be able to get their HIC license number from your main point of contact at the company, by calling their office or visiting their website. It should be easily accessible.
Additionally, you should look for an HIC Class A licensed contractor if you're doing a bigger project such as a full replacement or structural modifications because that is the highest level HIC license available in VA which will give you peace of mind that your roofer has or exceeds the required licensing.
After you've found their HIC license number, you can validate their license on DPOR's (Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation) License Lookup.
Here's what it should look like:
You can also call DPOR (804) 367-5800 to get help validating their HIC license.
For more information on Virginia HIC licenses check out Service Titan's article on Virginia HIC Licensing.
The best way to find a great roofing company is through referrals. Either from your friends, family or neighbors. You can also ask your prospective roofing company for references and they should be able to provide you with a list of real happy customers. This is the most commonly asked question so don't hesitate to ask for references directly from your roofer!
Read their Google reviews. Reading their Google Reviews can give you insight into their past customer's experiences both good and the bad. You should pay close attention to the reviewers profiles as well to ensure they are real customers, and not just the contractors friends, family or bots. Out of all the review platforms for residential contractors Google has the most accurate social proof platform by using a combination of AI, machine learning, NLP, and human expertise to scan unusual review patterns and determine fake ones from authentic reviews.
Check the contractors BBB Profile and Rating (Better Business Bureau). The BBB is a non-profit organization that promotes trust between businesses and consumers by offering resources, including business profiles, consumer reviews, and complaint resolution services. It is particularly useful for investigating residential contractors such as roofing companies. You should pay close attention to the roofing companies BBB letter based rating system and avoid companies with less than an A Rating.
Getting multiple roofing estimates is a smart and essential move for homeowners. It helps you understand the true condition of your roof, ensures you're not overpaying, and allows you to compare different contractors' approaches and professionalism. By evaluating several quotes, you can identify fair pricing, assess the scope of work proposed, and choose a contractor who offers the best value and quality. This process not only protects you from potential scams but also ensures that your roofing project is handled correctly and efficiently.
Opting for the cheapest roofing estimate might seem like a cost-saving decision, but it often leads to more significant expenses and issues over time. Low bids can indicate the use of inferior materials, subpar workmanship, and a lack of proper warranties. Such compromises can result in premature roof failures, voided manufacturer warranties, and even insurance claim denials due to improper installation. Additionally, some contractors may employ bait-and-switch tactics, offering low initial quotes only to introduce hidden fees later. Ultimately, while a low estimate might be tempting, it often comes with hidden risks and costs. Investing in a reputable, licensed contractor ensures quality work, proper materials, and peace of mind, ultimately saving you money and stress in the long run.
When selecting a roofer in Virginia, prioritize hiring a contractor with a Class A Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) license. This license ensures the contractor has met stringent state requirements, including passing comprehensive exams and demonstrating significant experience and financial stability. - ServiceTitan.
Investigate the contractor's reputation by checking online reviews, verifying references, and assessing their past work to ensure quality and reliability.
Additionally, obtain multiple estimates to compare pricing, services, and materials, which helps in making an informed decision and avoiding potential scams.
