How to Choose the Best Roofer in Harford County

If you're a homeowner or DIY enthusiast in Harford County, you know how crucial it is to find the best roofer in Harford County, MD. Your roof protects your home from the elements, and skimping on its care can lead to costly damages down the line. From harsh weather conditions to natural wear and tear, your roof faces numerous challenges that require professional attention. But how do you choose the right roofer for the task?

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to find a roofing contractor who checks all the right boxes. From verifying their business status to understanding their insurance coverage, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also discuss the importance of checking for customer reviews and obtaining multiple quotes to compare services and pricing. With these tips, you can ensure your home gets the best possible protection while also finding a contractor who offers both quality and value.

Check Their Business Status

The first step in selecting a roofing contractor is to confirm that their business is legally allowed to operate. Start by using the Maryland Business Entity search to see if the business is in good standing. This simple search will save you a lot of trouble down the road by ensuring that the contractor is legitimate and has met all legal requirements to operate in the state. Additionally, checking if the business has a history of any legal issues or complaints can provide further peace of mind.

If the contractor is registered in another state, make sure to check that state’s business entity search. Each state has its own registry, and verifying the business through their system will ensure that the contractor is also compliant with that state's regulations. A valid business registration is your first shield against potential scams, providing a basic level of security that the contractor is a professional and recognized entity. Furthermore, it can be helpful to look for any accreditations or certifications that the contractor might hold, as these can be indicators of their commitment to quality and professionalism.

Verify Their MHIC License

Once you’ve confirmed that the business is active, the next step is to check the contractor’s MHIC (Maryland Home Improvement Commission) license. This is a crucial step because a business being active doesn’t necessarily mean that their contractor’s license is too. An inactive license or one that belongs to someone else should be immediate red flags. Contractors with suspended or inactive licenses may not meet the necessary standards and regulations, which can lead to subpar work or legal issues down the line.

Make sure the license number is active and not suspended. Verifying this information is essential because it’s easy for shady contractors to fake credentials or provide false information. Double-checking through official channels ensures that you are hiring a legitimate and qualified professional. Taking these extra steps can save you from potential headaches and ensure the quality and safety of your home improvement projects.

Assess Their Insurance Coverage

One often overlooked but critical factor is the contractor's insurance coverage. Knowing how much insurance the contractor has can save you from potential liability. For example, if an accident occurs while they are working on your roof, and the contractor doesn't have adequate insurance, you as the homeowner could be held responsible for medical bills and legal fees.

Roofing is considered one of the most dangerous trades, which makes the cost of insurance high. Some contractors might be tempted to cut corners here to save money, so it's crucial to verify this information thoroughly. Ask to see their insurance certificates and ensure that their coverage is up-to-date and sufficient for the scope of your project. This additional step can provide peace of mind and protect you from any unpleasant surprises.

In-House Crews vs. Subcontractors

Many roofers use subcontractors to complete their work, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. However, it's important to understand the implications. Using subcontractors can lower costs, mainly because of the high insurance costs associated with roofing. Subcontractors often have their own insurance policies, which can reduce the overall financial burden on the primary roofing company, leading to more competitive pricing for customers.

The key is to know whether the roofer uses the same subcontractors consistently or if they change them frequently. Consistency usually means better quality control since the subcontractors are familiar with the company's standards and expectations. This familiarity can lead to a smoother workflow and fewer mistakes. On the other hand, if a roofer frequently changes subcontractors, it can be a gamble. New subcontractors may not have the same level of experience or may not be as well-versed in the specific techniques and materials used by the roofer, potentially resulting in variable quality and extended project timelines.

Additionally, consistent subcontractors can build a rapport with the primary roofing company, leading to improved communication and collaboration. This relationship can be crucial in handling unexpected challenges that might arise during the project, ensuring that problems are addressed swiftly and effectively. Therefore, when choosing a roofing company, it's worth asking about their subcontracting practices to get a better sense of what to expect in terms of cost, quality, and overall project management.

Check Their Reputation

Online reviews can provide valuable insights into a contractor's reliability and quality of work. These reviews often come from previous clients who have firsthand experience with the contractor, offering a glimpse into their professionalism, punctuality, and craftsmanship. Look across multiple platforms such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and specialized contractor review sites. Additionally, try to get input from local neighbors who may have used the contractor before, as personal recommendations can be very telling.

However, be cautious of fake reviews. Some companies might inflate their ratings with fabricated testimonials. A high count of reviews doesn’t always mean better service; it's essential to discern authentic feedback from misleading ones. Read through any negative reviews to gauge if they are legitimate or if they seem fabricated. Look for patterns in the complaints or praises, and consider whether the issues mentioned would be deal-breakers for you. This thorough approach will help you make a more informed decision when selecting a contractor for your project.

Demonstrate Expertise

In Maryland, licensed contractors must have at least two years of experience before receiving their MHIC license. However, experience alone doesn't guarantee expertise. A roof is a complex system composed of multiple components working in unison to provide protection and durability. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure your contractor can demonstrate their knowledge of both the products used and the intricate installation details. For example, they should understand the importance of proper ventilation, the types of materials that best suit your climate, and the techniques that prevent common issues like leaks and shingle blow-offs. A contractor who can discuss these aspects in depth, explaining how each element contributes to the overall performance of your roof, is usually a good sign that they know what they’re doing. This thorough understanding and ability to communicate clearly can give you confidence in their ability to deliver quality work.

Understand Warranties

Roofing installations typically come with two types of warranties—a manufacturer’s warranty on the materials and a labor warranty from the contractor. The manufacturer’s warranty often covers defects in the roofing materials themselves, such as shingles, tiles, or membranes, protecting you against issues like premature wear and tear or material failure. However, it's important to check what the manufacturer’s warranty covers; some warranties are more comprehensive and even include labor costs for repairing or replacing defective materials, making additional labor warranties from the contractor less critical.

Even so, a good labor warranty from the contractor is essential for your peace of mind. This warranty ensures that the installation work itself is free from defects and up to industry standards. Look for contractors offering a minimum of five years of labor coverage. This duration is not arbitrary; issues related to poor installation usually become apparent after the first few rainstorms or seasonal changes, so five years should be sufficient time to identify and address any problems. Additionally, this period allows you to experience the roof under different weather conditions, ensuring its durability and the quality of the contractor’s workmanship.

Don't restrict your choices; look beyond the limited pool of contractors in your small hometown.

While it’s tempting to look for contractors within your hometown, don’t limit your search to locals only. Contractors often work across broad service areas, sometimes even across the entire state. Many reputable firms have the capacity to handle projects far from their base of operations. By expanding your search, you can access a wider pool of experienced professionals, increasing your chances of finding the perfect fit for your project. Limiting your selection to only local contractors can restrict the quality of options available to you, potentially leading to compromises in expertise, costs, and timelines. So, broaden your horizons and ensure you consider all possible options before making a decision.

Free Inspections and Quotes

Matter Construction, a hometown roofing contractor born and raised in Harford County, offers free roof inspections and quotes to ensure the safety and longevity of your home. With deep roots in the community, they are from Bel Air and currently reside in Havre de Grace, making them easily accessible to local residents. Over the years, they have built a reputation as one of the most trusted names in the area, known for their high-quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. Whether you need a minor repair or a complete roof replacement, their team of experts is ready to help. Request a free roof inspection to get started and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is in good hands.

Conclusion

Choosing the right roofer in Harford County doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these steps—verifying business status, checking the MHIC license, assessing insurance coverage, understanding subcontractor use, evaluating reputation, demonstrating expertise, and understanding warranties—you can ensure a smooth and successful roofing project.

Remember, your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Make sure you entrust it to a contractor who meets all your criteria. For a reliable and professional roofing service, consider reaching out to Matter Construction and take the first step toward a safer, more secure home today.