What can you do to make sure you are protected during your roofing project in Vancouver WA and/or Portland OR?
Perhaps this is a no-brainer, but the first step is to make sure your roofer is licensed to do work in your state. Whether you are looking for a roof in Vancouver or Portland, they should have a business license for the appropriate state. Because our metro area spans two states, it can get a little tricky! Just remember to hire someone who is licensed in the same state as where the roof work will be complete. It may not seem like a big deal if you meet someone trustworthy, but following this rule is important and for your own protection!
What is a bond? A bond protects you in case the roofer fails to complete the project or runs off with your money. The roofer should show you proof of their bond. Both Oregon and Washington have separate bond requirements. Depending on the state they are located in, the paperwork may look a little different. However, in both states, the bond paperwork should show the amount of the bond. NEVER GIVE YOUR ROOFER A DOWN PAYMENT LARGER THAN THEIR BOND BEFORE WORK STARTS.
Does worker’s compensation matter for your roofing project? While #3 on the list, it is without a doubt the most important. If your roofer doesn’t have worker’s comp for every single employee, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY INJURIES ($$$) that happen on your job site. Roofing is ranked #4 in terms of workplace fatalities. Don’t believe it? Here’s a link to a lawyer’s website where someone fell off the roof: http://www.rhlaw.com/blog/homeowner-sued-by-subcontractors-injured-employee/
Many companies hire subcontractors as a way of getting out of the responsibility of ensuring all requirements are met and cutting costs. Besides the legal issues involved with hiring roofers and subs, the roofing contractor working on your roof may not show up if an issue arises. Thus begins the finger-pointing, while you have water pouring in your bedroom….
Whether you’re looking for a roofer in Vancouver WA, Portland OR, or somewhere else, these are just four of the many questions you need to ask your roofing contractor. For a more complete guide to your roofing project. Get in touch with IBEX Roof for an estimate with one of our knowledgeable roofing estimators!
