5 Ways to Find the Best Roofing Contractor in New Jersey

Choosing the right roofing contractor is a critical decision for any homeowner in New Jersey. Given the industry’s mixed reputation, finding a trustworthy contractor who will deliver quality work while protecting your property can be challenging. This article will guide you through five effective strategies to identify the best roofing contractor in New Jersey. Here are 5 effective ways to find the right roofing contractor for your project:

1.   Find Local Roofing Contractors Online

The internet is a powerful tool for finding local roofing companies. Start by searching “roofing companies in New Jersey” on Google to generate a list of potential contractors. You’ll likely find business listings and review sites like Better Business Bureau (BBB). While these sites provide valuable information, remember to dig deeper into each company.

One particularly reliable resource is Nextdoor, where you can ask your neighbors for recommendations. Their first-hand experiences can give you trustworthy insights. However, be cautious if a neighbor recommends a company they work for. Always ensure that the roofing companies you consider are local and well-established in New Jersey. One such is Boundless Roofing & Chimney, a top-rated roofing company in Rockaway, NJ. Accredited by GAF and BBB, their experienced team delivers quality and excellence.

2.   Check Manufacturer Certifications

Roofing manufacturers often certify select contractors who meet their high standards for installation and customer service. Certified roofing contractors means that they are accredited by the manufacturer and are a reliable partner. These certifications are a good indicator of a contractor’s reliability and expertise. Visit the websites of major shingle manufacturers and use their contractor locator tools to find certified roofers in your area. Being on this list means the manufacturer trusts the contractor to install their products correctly and they possess the expertise to do so, ensuring you get the best possible warranties.

3.   Get Recommendations from Friends and Family

Personal recommendations are invaluable when searching for a reliable roofing contractor. Take their prior experiences into consideration and make the right choice for your roofing project. Ask friends and family if they have had any roofing work done and if they would recommend their contractor. These firsthand accounts provide honest feedback about the entire experience, from work quality to customer service. While personal experiences can be subjective, they offer a solid starting point and help you ask pertinent questions to potential contractors.

4.   Consult Your HOA or Observe Neighboring Homes

If your community has a Homeowners Association (HOA), they often have preferred contractors for various home services, including roofing. If your HOA recommends a roofing contractor, it’s likely they have a good track record. If you don’t have an HOA, observe recent roofing work in your neighborhood. You can discreetly assess the quality of work and, if comfortable, ask your neighbors about their experience with the contractor.

5.   Read Recent Reviews and Get Multiple Quotes

Once you have a shortlist of potential roofing contractors, read recent reviews on Google and other review platforms. Look for reviews from the past 3-6 months to get an up-to-date picture of the contractor’s performance and check their finished projects. Pay attention to how the contractor responds to negative reviews; their professionalism in handling complaints is telling.

After narrowing down your list, get quotes from at least three to five different roofing companies. Comparing multiple quotes helps you understand the market rate, the scope of work, and the materials used. If only one roofing contractor suggests a roof replacement when all others suggest only a roof repair, ensure you are getting exactly what you need. It also ensures you’re making an informed decision without falling prey to contractors who might push unnecessary services.

Tips for Selecting the Best Roofing Contractor in New Jersey

Choosing a roofing contractor involves more than just finding someone to do the job. Here are five additional tips to help you make the best decision for your roofing project:

Verify Licenses and Insurance

Ensure the contractor you hire is fully licensed and insured. Check authoritative websites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) to ensure the contractor is reliable. Roofing is hazardous work, and you need to protect yourself from liability in case of accidents. Ask to see proof of both liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. A reputable contractor will have no issues providing these documents.

Review Their Past Work

A trustworthy roofing contractor will be eager to show off their previous work. Look for testimonials and portfolios online. Websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can provide insights into the contractor’s reputation. Positive reviews and a good BBB rating are strong indicators of reliability. Also check for online reviews on platforms like Google to check their finished projects and feedback from their customers.

Get Financial Agreements in Writing

Make sure every aspect of the roofing project, especially financial terms, is documented. A professional contractor will ensure you understand the financing terms and provide a clear, detailed contract. Don’t sign anything until you feel confident about the terms. Also don’t make hasty decisions but make sure to get quotes from at least three roofing contractors before you decide on the right one.

Don’t Base Your Decision Solely on Price

While it’s tempting to choose the lowest bid, remember that you get what you pay for. Extremely low bids may indicate subpar materials or workmanship. Compare quotes and consider the quality of materials and the contractor’s reputation. While prices vary from one contractor to another, the gap should not be too big. If a roofing contractor changes too little, make sure to review and research their past projects. Perhaps they might have really bad reviews or use low-quality materials. Sometimes, paying a bit more is worth the assurance of a job well done.

Ask Plenty of Questions

Never hesitate to ask questions. You obviously need to know everything that will be included in your roofing project and the contractor should be more than happy to answer all your questions. Inquire about the contractor’s experience, how long they’ve been in business, their process, and any available discounts. Understanding the timeline and what to expect can help ensure you’re making a well-informed decision.

By following these steps, you can confidently find a reliable and professional roofing contractor in New Jersey who will deliver quality work and ensure the safety and longevity of your roof.