When it’s time to replace your roof, whether from general wear and tear or following a nasty storm, the first step is to do your research and choose the right roofing contractor. It’s critical to choose a local roofing company with years of experience in the roofing industry. Make sure the contractor has a good reputation and positive reviews from previous customers. Once you’ve settled on the best contractor, the next question is: when should you pay your roofing contractor?
Full Upfront Payment isn’t Necessary
When paying for a roof replacement project, you should never pay upfront before any work is done. Deposits can be legitimate, but you should do your research and inquire from the contractor beforehand. Even if everything else seems legitimate, a contractor who asks for full payment upfront is a red flag. It’s also a sign the contractor is not reputable and lacks the funds to complete the project correctly, so just walk away. Withholding full payment until the work is completed is a great way to ensure the contractor will accomplish the task to your satisfaction. In other words, it gives your contractor the incentive to provide the best service possible.
A Deposit is Often Reasonable
The contractor does need some assurance the bill will be paid once the job is complete. While a contract is one way to give such an assurance, contractors can ask for a partial deposit before they begin the work. As a homeowner, paying a deposit indicates your commitment to getting the roof replacement job done and you’re ready to invest in it. Another important thing to note is you should never make cash payments as it ensures there’s a proof of payment.
Payment Options May be Available
If you need financing with your roof replacement project, make sure the contractor provides financing before moving forward with their services. If they don’t, move on to the next contractor. A new roof can be a costly project depending on the complexity, size, and material. It can be helpful to explore various financing options allowing you to break down the cost and pay in installments. Another option is to take a personal loan or equity line of credit with your own bank.
The bottom line is you should avoid paying your roofing contractor the full amount upfront; no reputable contractor will ask you to. However, it’s pretty reasonable to make a deposit on the project before it begins. If you’re planning to replace your roof in Jacksonville, FL, consider working with StormForce. Give us a call today to get a free, no-obligation estimate.