What Questions Should You Ask Your Roofing Contractor Ottawa?

Hiring the right roofing contractor is essential for ensuring the long-term protection of your home. With so many contractors offering roofing services, it can be challenging to know which one is reliable and trustworthy. Asking the right questions will help you make an informed decision and avoid common pitfalls. In this guide, we’ll outline the most important questions you should ask your roofing contractor before starting a project.

1. Do You Hire Subcontractors? Who Will Be Installing My Roof?

One of the first questions to ask a roofing contractor is whether they hire subcontractors or use their own employees for the installation. It’s crucial to know who will be working on your roof. While subcontracting is common in the industry, you’ll want to ensure that the workers are properly trained and experienced. If the contractor does use subcontractors, ask for their names and qualifications to ensure they meet industry standards.

Knowing the names of the people who will be on your property helps establish accountability and gives you peace of mind. Reliable contractors like Aquila Roofing and Construction Inc. will have no problem sharing this information and providing reassurance about the qualifications of their team.

2. Are You Fully Insured?

Ensuring your contractor is fully insured is critical. A professional roofing contractor should have both liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Liability insurance protects your property in case of accidental damage during the project, while workers’ compensation covers any injuries that may happen to workers on your property.

Working with an uninsured contractor can expose you to legal and financial risks if anything goes wrong. Always ask for proof of insurance before agreeing to any work. A legitimate contractor will have no issues providing you with this documentation upfront.

3. Do You Have a Valid WSIB Clearance Certificate?

If you’re in Ontario, Canada, one of the most important things to verify is whether your contractor holds a valid WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) clearance certificate. This certificate ensures that the contractor is covered by WSIB and that they comply with the workplace safety standards set by the province.

If your contractor does not have a valid WSIB certificate, you could be held liable for any workplace injuries or accidents that occur during the project. A professional roofing contractor, such as Aquila Roofing and Construction Inc., will gladly provide proof of WSIB compliance to ensure their team is fully covered.

4. Are You a Manufacturer-Certified Installer?

Another key question to ask is whether your contractor is certified by roofing material manufacturers. A manufacturer-certified installer has undergone specialized training and met strict guidelines set by the manufacturer for proper installation techniques. This ensures that your roof will be installed correctly, according to the manufacturer’s standards.

Working with a manufacturer-certified installer also means that you may be eligible for extended warranties on both materials and installation. Aquila Roofing is certified by leading roofing manufacturers, guaranteeing high-quality service and offering better warranty options for your roof.

5. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience is essential when it comes to roofing. Asking your contractor how long they’ve been in business gives you insight into their track record and reliability. Unfortunately, some contractors start new businesses every few years to avoid honoring their warranties or to cover up bad reputations.

A contractor with a long history in the roofing industry, like Aquila Roofing, has proven their commitment to quality work and customer service. Look for contractors who have at least a few years of experience under the same business name and ask for references or reviews from previous clients.

6. What Warranties Do You Offer?

Warranties are critical when it comes to roofing projects. They provide protection and peace of mind should something go wrong after installation. You’ll want to ask about both the manufacturer’s warranty on the roofing materials and the contractor’s warranty on workmanship.

A good roofing contractor will offer solid warranties that cover a significant period of time. The manufacturer’s warranty typically covers defects in the materials, while the contractor’s warranty ensures that the roof was installed correctly and will function as intended. Make sure you understand the details of both before signing any contracts.

7. Can You Provide References or Reviews?

Before hiring a roofing contractor, it’s important to ask for references or check online reviews. A reputable contractor will have a portfolio of completed projects and will be happy to share client testimonials. Reading online reviews or speaking with previous customers will give you a clearer picture of the contractor’s work ethic, professionalism, and quality of service.

Check review platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see what other homeowners in your area have to say about the contractor’s work. Aquila Roofing is proud of its many positive reviews and long list of satisfied clients, making it easy to see why they are a trusted roofing company in Ottawa.

8. What Is the Project Timeline?

Understanding the timeline for your roofing project is important for managing expectations and planning accordingly. Ask your contractor how long they expect the project to take, including any potential delays due to weather or unforeseen issues. A reliable contractor will provide a clear and realistic timeframe for completion.

Aquila Roofing always communicates with clients about the expected project duration and any changes that may arise, ensuring you stay informed throughout the entire process.

Conclusion: Ask the Right Questions to Ensure a Smooth Roofing Project

Hiring the right roofing contractor starts with asking the right questions. From confirming insurance and certifications to ensuring you’ll get the best warranties, these questions are designed to help you make a well-informed decision. A trusted company like Aquila Roofing and Construction Inc. will always be transparent with their answers and provide the highest-quality service to meet your roofing needs. For a reliable roofing contractor in Ottawa, contact Aquila Roofing today to get a free estimate and expert advice on your next project.