“You’re not inviting contractors to give an estimate, you’re inviting them to distinguish themselves by excelling at an interview,” so says Justin Shoemaker from Real Good Roofing.
When you’re shopping for a new shingle roof, you’re more than just a potential customer, you’re acting in the capacity of “Domestic Human Resources Manager.” You’re hiring, and knowing how to conduct an interview, helps you to save your money.
In a typical search, too much time is spent discussing the job and too little time is spent discussing the people who’s going to do the job. A trustworthy maxim in the roofing industry is, “Choose your roofer first, choose your roofing last.”
Essentially, Shoemaker advises against getting overwhelmed by colors and styles to the extent that you overlook the character of the roofing contractor. Draw parallels to your everyday interactions where you assess people, applying that experience to evaluating potential contractors.
- Does he look you in the eye?
- Does he listen?
- Does he take notes when you speak?
A no could mean you need to dig a bit deeper.
Two no’s could mean he’s more concerned about selling something (anything!) than he is about doing a great roofing job for you.
Three no’s probably means you should send him packing without your autograph in his briefcase.
If a contractor mentions more than once how honest he is, it’s a safe bet that he isn’t. I’m not sure why this rule works, but it does. Trust me, I’m honest, and No! I am not going to repeat myself!
The best questions to ask are open-ended. Ask questions that can’t be answered by a “yes” or “no.” For example, since most roofing contractors would like for you to believe that every job they’ve ever done has gone perfectly, you might ask, “What are some mistakes you’ve made on past jobs, and what did you do to correct them?” Open-ended questions often flush out interesting stories.
If nothing useful is forthcoming, keep another inviolable rule in mind: The last roofer you should consider is the one who’s never had a leak.
Your roofing contractor may want to control the interview by using manufacturer supplied literature to lead you through a long dog and pony show. According to the BBB, a majority of complaints have to do with workmanship – not material. So keep them focused on their ability. Note how you are treated before any money for services is exchanged. Are they respectful of your time, arriving when promised and are they easy to communicate with. Many complaints by homeowners start off the same way, “I could never reach my roofer” If a contractor seems sketchy without having any of your hard earned savings, why would that improve after you pay for the a new roof?
Shoemaker suggests asking for a “resume’ to see if they are qualified for the job!
- Education, (there are schools, classes and certifications),
- Experience, (Angie’s List and the BBB have his record),
- Employees, (who does the actual roofing).
What if your contractor seems to resent your interrogation? Better to expose a thin skin now rather than discover, after you paid a deposit, that you are not comfortable with them around your family.
Always remember that you’re not inviting contractors to come out and give you an estimate. You’re inviting them not your home and offering them the opportunity to distinguish themselves from the competition, and so earn your job!
To interview Real Good Roofing – contact BRODY anytime. They answer the phones, even at nights, on the weekends, or over a holiday. They know Mother Nature does not keep banker hours!
Real Good Roofing can be reached at 912-420-GOOD (4663) or at www.realgoodroofing.com.