top of page

Did you know the
Seven 
Things?

THE SEVEN THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
BEFORE YOU HIRE ANY ROOFING CONTRACTOR

1. Poor Workmanship

Are the workers properly trained?


Is there an active safety program?


What assurances are there that the
installation will be done properly? 

It is very important that a contractor has trained and certified installers that put quality and safety above all else. That contractor should have a list of referrals from past clients you can reach out to. You should also be provided a minimum 5-year workmanship warranty, and that the company has the reputation to back it up. At Ardent, we can provide extended 50-year non-prorated warranties from manufacturers like Owens Corning, BP Canada, and CertainTeed.  CertainTeed’s 5-Star warranty, where CertainTeed backs our workmanship for 25 years. Now that is workmanship you can trust. Can the contractor you are hiring provide that kind of assurance?  

 

Read more about the best performing warranty in the industry.   
 

2. Low Grade Materials

Is your contractor only offering you one option of roofing materials?

Make sure that your contractor can offer you many options of materials and upgradable products. It’s up to you, the owner, to have a say on what goes on your roof. Ardent can provide options from all the major shingle manufacturers, as well as Cedar and Steel roofing options. A quality contractor should not have limitations as to what materials they can provide. You should be given the opportunity to explore all your options. As well, all the various manufacturer warranties are available to you and a good contractor will have these ready to explain to help you make the right decision.

3. Financial Instability

Can your contractor show that they have a good credit standing? 

There could be risk when a contractor leads off with, I will beat any quote by 10%. That sales technique is dangerous because it is solely based on getting the job, regardless if it is profitable or not, and to say, “I will beat any price” means they don’t have much work at all. This type of practice could lead to another issue. The contractor could default on their credit to their suppliers, and if that happens, then the supplier could apply a lien to your home until the contractor pays their debt.

 

What are the signs that you have a financially stable contractor? They provide a detailed quote at a competitive price. Their quote provides various options to choose from, giving you the confidence they buy from multiple suppliers. There is no mention of progress payments and they ask for payment in full within 30 days of completion, or after the client is completely satisfied with the final product. This will ensure when you pay your contractor, it is in fact, paid in full.

4. No Money Upfront, Ever

Is your contractor asking for a deposit upfront? 

Do not ever pay a dime up front. A good contractor doesn’t need your money to do the work and all too often, homeowners are left empty handed, and their contractor is gone with cash in hand. It also requires a specific prepaid business license to ask for deposits. Most contractors do not have this type of business license, so never give money up front! Do not fall into that trap! Ardent will never ask for a dime up front, and will take the time to ensure you are getting the best value for the money you are spending.

5. Delays + Poor Communication

Is your contractor not
returning your calls?


Does your contractor have a store front and support staff?

A quality contractor will take the time to understand your needs. They should have the experience to answer all your questions and provide sound advice to give you all the information you need to make the right decisions. At Ardent, you are involved from start to finish, and can trust that after the job is done, we are available if the need arises. Small high-risk contractors who work from their homes, do not always take the time to cover all your questions, and provide you with multiple options. Some may not come to the rescue if there are issues after the roof is installed. Make sure the contractor you choose has great referrals, takes care of their services year around, and a support staff that will react within 24 hours.  

6. No Hidden Costs

Did your contractor give you a verbal or written estimate or a proper quote?


Do you know the difference? 

The danger with an estimate is just that! It leaves the door open to sudden hidden costs that can be demanded of you in order to complete your roof. Ardent Roof Systems will give you a written quote, and will stand behind the price. If there are potential issues that could affect the overall price, it is discussed before the job commences to ensure you have all the facts up front. The more you know about the entire process, the better you understand the quality of the contractor you are working with.

7. Liability Insurance

Could your contractor provide proof of all required insurances and license?

It is easy for any contractor to say they have all the coverage, but do you know how to make them prove it? When you pay a contractor to work for you, you take on the responsibility of a prime contractor. Any liabilities that come with that role are now yours. You have every right to demand they produce legitimate insurance and license documents to give you the protection you deserve. Ardent can produce these documents at a moment’s notice, as well give you instructions on how to properly do a WCB clearance, so you have the peace of mind that the contractor you are working with, does in fact have the coverage in place, ensuring your full protection. 

If you feel that the contractor you are considering doesn’t measure up to all these requirements, we would love to hear from you!
bottom of page