Residential Guarantee Program

Why Choose A Professional Roofing Contractor?

A professional is generally recognized as a person who has specialized knowledge of, and has received intensive training in, a particular field. Interestingly enough, another common way of determining that people are professionals is by contrasting them with amateurs. And that is exactly what we would like to talk to you about. Roofing technology has changed markedly in the last ten years. New roof coverings, insulation materials and innovative application techniques demand the education and expertise of a professional!

You should know that roofing is a relatively "easy-entry" business. Frankly, not all roofing contractors are professionals, and too many home and building owners have paid dearly for using amateurs. A mere glance through the yellow pages will show that there are dozens - maybe hundreds - of people calling themselves roofing contractors.

A year-to-year comparison of the yellow pages will show you that many contractors do not stay in the business for very long. But when you are considering a roof for your own home or building, you do not want to hire someone who has just "hung out a shingle" but has no expertise in the field. You want to work with a pro...someone who will deliver an effective, long lasting roof and stand behind the job.

Roofing is a complicated and demanding trade. A professional roofing contractor must have knowledge of materials and building technology as well as a trained and skilled work force to give the best possible service to his customers.

Because an informed customer is a good customer, find out as much as you can about the contractor you are considering. To get the job done right the first time, and to avoid costly repairs later, insist on a professional. Insist on a member of RCABC!

Professional roofing contractors may have large or small businesses. They may run a union shop or may be non-union. They may have been in business 50 years (some of our members have been!), or just a few. But they all have some traits in common.

Professional Roofing Contractors are:

Well Established ... A professional roofing contractor will have a permanent place of business, a telephone number, a tax identification number and a business licence.

Experienced and Knowledgeable ... The contractor should be an experienced problem solver, with a thorough understanding of his industry. Roofing skills cannot be learned overnight. There are accepted methods for roofing around pipes, vents, chimneys and rooftop equipment. Often, roofing materials are incompatible and can cause problems if applied by an amateur.

Committed to Education ... The roofing industry offers a variety of educational programs that a professional roofing contractor will have attended. More importantly, the best roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who actually install your roof. Insist on having trained, experienced roofing applicators with trade qualifications instead of labourers employed for one or two interim jobs.

Insured, and Committed to Safety ... Roofing is a dangerous business. A sloppy operation can endanger the workers and bystanders and cause property damage. Do not hesitate asking the contractor for proof of the insurance he carries. Beware of the low bidder who is cheap because he does not have complete insurance, including worker compensation (WCB) coverage. Too many unsuspecting home and building owners have been dragged into litigation involving uninsured contractors.

Professional Roofing Contractors also:

Use Quality Materials ... In today's market, you can buy dozens of different types of roofs. A professional roofing contractor will help you make the best decision for your building and for your budget, using quality materials produced by reputable manufacturers.

Stand Behind Their Work ... A roof is a big investment and, for optimum performance, it should be regularly inspected and maintained. Ask your professional roofer about an ongoing maintenance program.

A professional roofing contractor is interested in more than simply getting the job done and moving on. He will offer service after the sale and application. He will offer a five year Guarantee Program jointly underwritten by the contractor and RGC, written in a language you can understand.

What Can You Do To Make Sure You Are Working With A Professional?

Be Sure You Are Comfortable with the contractor and the roof system he is suggesting. A pro is going to be happy to answer your questions.

Check Customer References. Ask for the names of several customers with roofs similar to yours. Call them. Be sure the contractor has performed as promised.

Check Financial Information. A professional roofing contractor will give you the names of creditors and banking references. Make sure the roofing contractor is a responsible business person.

Call the Better Business Bureau. You will find out quickly if there have been a lot of complaints about the contractor, or if any complaints have not been satisfactorily resolved.

Insist on A Written Proposal. You will get it from a professional roofing contractor. Examine it to make sure you think it is complete and fair.

Insist on Membership in the Roofing Contractors Association of B.C. This trade association of professional roofing contractors monitors its members' performances, assists in disputes involving owners and members, and guarantees its members' work if an RGC Guarantee Certificate is requested.

How to Find One? Ask friends and neighbours who have had roofing work done about their experiences with contractors; ask the contractors for bids on your job; or call RCABC at (604) 882-9734. We can also be reached by e-mail at roofing@rcabc.org or visit our website http://www.rcabc.org. We will give you the names of roofing contractors in your area. Home and building owners should base their decisions on the qualities they deem most important in a roofing contractor.

Top it Off with An RCABC Member