Finding a roofer you can trust is critical?
In all seriousness, it's far too easy for less than reputable roofing contractors in Southern Wisconsin (or anywhere else for that matter) to cut corners and pad profits at your expense. And it's even easier for them to close up shop and just re-open their business in another name when things get too hot.
Please understand, there are a lot of great roofing companies in Milwaukee. And we are in no way saying they are all bad. What we are saying is that it is difficult to know and distinguish between the good and the bad.
Three references and an active business license just aren't good enough anymore.
Did you know that there are actual companies out there that you can hire to write positive reviews? Or even act as "references" for your business. Fake reviews and references are becoming more and more commonplace. In fact, there are articles in Forbes Magazine about it, and there was even a research paper published by the National Bureau of Economic Research...It's insane. Just do a simple internet search for "fake reviews" or "fake reviews, Forbes" if you want to read more about it. That is why it is so critical for you, as a homeowner, to perform your due diligence.
Here are five things any reputable roofing contractor in Milwaukee, Madison Wisconsin, or anywhere else should provide you:
1
A Contractor Standards Guide:
The harsh reality is that industry standards just aren’t good enough. If they were, do you think that home improvement would be one of the most complained about industries? A contractor should always provide you with a copy of the standards they hold themselves to.
2
A "REAL" List Of References:
A contractor should always provide you with a list of references. But here is the major difference between a contractor you can trust and one you can't. First of all, references shouldn’t be just recent clients who had work done less than a year ago. Most problems with construction and home improvements don't manifest themselves until after a few years. So make sure you get a list of customers that have been around for a while and make sure you call them. Second, you should be given a list of as many references as you need to feel comfortable. Far too many contractors have a pre-printed list of hand selected references. Always ask for more.
3
Copies Of Critical Documents:
A contractor should provide you with a copy of an active – in good standing – license. A copy of their current insurance, a banker’s certification letter, and letters of good standing from suppliers.
4
Copies Of Professional Certifications, Awards & Recognition:
A contractor should be involved in trade associations and peer type organizations. They should always be trying to improve and hone their craft. Always find out what a contractors peer groups are saying about them.
5
"REAL" Testimonials:
What you want are handwritten and signed testimonials. We have paper copies of all testimonials we publish on our site. Just let us know if you want to see them.