“CAN I SEE SOME OF YOUR RECENT WORK?”
Don’t hesitate to ask contractors to show you samples of work they’ve recently completed. A professional contractor will have no problem showing you their work. Talk to their clients – they’re the best way to know you’ve found a good one. Bottom line is: you need to be selective.
“WILL MY ROOFING PROJECT NEED A CONSENT?”
In New Zealand, re-roofing itself doesn’t require a specific consent to go ahead, but some materials used in the process might. How can you know which materials and which parts of the process may or may not be subject to consent? The answer is that it’s a wise idea to have the work supervised by a licensed building practitioner (LBP).
“IS YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND SUSTAINABLE?”
As many homeowners are increasingly attuned to the need for sustainable living, some roofing companies are prioritising eco-friendly renovations. Eco-friendly roofing materials are not simply a lifestyle choice. For example, did you know that some roofing materials adhere to the most rigorous standards of green living solutions? The right contractor will be able to help you choose a roof that’s also good for the environment.
“CAN I SEE THE CONTRACT?”
Before deciding on a contractor, you should be able to see what the contract will look like. And it needs to clearly spell out every aspect of the project: cost, responsibilities, obligations, and time, among other things. A roofing contractor who is a true professional will take you through each step of the contract and will include a schedule for when work should be completed. Gone are the days when re-roofing your house turned your life upside down, with weeks of hammering and disruption. Nowadays, a house can be re-roofed in less than a week.
“HOW MUCH IT WILL COST?”
Shop around. Try to compare apples with apples. Costs will vary hugely depending on your home, the roofing material, and the current condition of your roof. A professional should be able to both advise you of the most suitable materials and give you a range of pricing options. Also, think about product lifespan and warranties. You want a roof that lasts.