Whether you’re replacing worn down shingles or updating your entire roof, having the right roofing contractor to complete the job for you is key to your project’s success. If you find that your contractor is constantly showing up late to the job site, padding project estimates, or maybe even drinking on the job, it may be time to fire your roofing contractor. Remodeling your roof can be expensive and a good contractor will help you maintain your roof replacement budget, but a faulty contractor can disrupt the process and even set you behind. If it’s not working with your current contractor, you may want to let them go and start your search again. Look for these signs that you’re working with the wrong professional.

When to fire your roofing contractor

Additional work – If you hired your roofing contractor to handle a specific task, but as the project progresses your contractor keeps finding more problems with other areas of your roof, this may be a sign that your contractor is taking you for a ride. Avoid additional work issues by going over your roofing contract with your professional and clearly state what work you will or will not pay for. If necessary, get a second opinion about your roof repair. If your roofing contractor won’t stop piling on extra unwanted work, consider finding a new roofer.

Lack of licensing – If your contractor has promised repeatedly to show you proof of licensing, bonding, and insurance, but has yet to produce the necessary documents, they may be deceiving you. An unlicensed or uninsured contractor could put you, your family, and your home at risk. If your contractor can’t show you proof that their business is properly documented, it may be time to part ways with your roofing professional.

Unprofessional behavior – If you notice your roofing contractor or their crew behaving dangerously or disrespectfully towards your family, it’s time to fire your contractor. From using drugs or alcohol on the job site, to constantly showing up late, to failing to follow OSHA guidelines, an unprofessional contractor is not a contractor you can to trust to maintain your roof.

Unwarranted delays or absences – Having a roofing contractor on your property for several hours a day during a designated period of time is inconvenient enough, you shouldn’t also have to deal with late arrivals or no-shows by your contractor. If your contractor makes showing up late a habit, consider showing them the door.

Failure to follow guidelines – Any contractor that displays blatant disregard for local laws and regulations or OSHA guidelines should be fired. Falls are the top cause of worker fatalities in the construction industry and cause nearly 35% of construction-related deaths each year. If your roofing contractor won’t protect themselves and their crew from an unsafe work environment, they’re putting everyone in your home at risk.

Bad communication skills – If you find yourself having to constantly track down your roofing contractor to clarify issues and ask questions, this is a red flag. Good communication is essential for any partnership, and your relationship with your roofing contractor should be no different. If your roofing contractor is exceptionally hard to work with, think about finding a new contractor.

Not all of the signs above are grounds for immediate termination. However, if your contractor is displaying several of these traits or putting you or your family in a dangerous situation, it’s time to move on.

Warning signs to watch for, before hiring a contractor

Knowing the best fit contractor to work with for your roofing remodel will help you avoid running into potential problems. If you’re still in the research phase of your search for a roofing contractor, keep on the lookout for these warning signs before hiring. Be cautious if you run into a contractor who:

  • Refuses to sign a written contract
  • Won’t give out referrals or recommendations
  • Is pushy and promotes deals that are only good for one day
  • Gives you an estimate that seems too good to be true
  • Tries to convince you that no permits are needed
  • Won’t accept any form of payment except cash
  • Asks for all money at the start of the project

Finding the right roofing contractor can be time consuming and difficult if you’re unsure what you’re looking for in a professional. Start searching and reviewing roofing professionals on Porch to plan ahead and ensure you have a top quality contractor for your remodel. If you already have a partnership in place with a contract and have decided you need to fire your contractor, consult an attorney before making any permanent decisions if you’re unsure of your rights and responsibilities as a homeowner, in the given situation.

Top Image Credit: Witt Construction