After a hailstorm, you have done a spot inspection on your roof, have completed a professional damage inspection and filed your insurance claim. Once the claim is accepted, it is time to get that roof hail damage repaired. This usually means hiring a contractor. You should not necessarily hire the first roofer that comes along, even if it is the one who did your inspection. Make sure that the roofer you hire is trustworthy and just the right one for you.

The Roofing Estimate

Your insurance company will issue an estimate of repair costs written up by your insurance adjuster. This estimate will include the costs for materials, labor, replacement cost, depreciation and cash value of your roof. The important part of the claim for you is the cash value. This, minus your deductible, will be the amount your insurance company is willing to pay out after accounting for the age of your roof and its consequent decrease in value.

Choosing a Contractor

Now you undertake the process of hiring your roofer. You need someone you can trust. Not only is a new roof an expensive prospect, but the work should be guaranteed for years. This means you need to trust that the contractor will be around in two, five, even ten years to back up the guarantee. Some issues to consider include:

• Make sure your roofer is based in your state (Illinois).
• Ask if they have references for past work.
• Check their website for updates and descriptions of their work. Remember, you want a roofer with longevity and history.
• Inquire about the materials they work with. A good roofer knows where their materials come from and is able to offer more expensive or cheaper alternatives.
• Take a look at their listing on the Better Business Bureau website. This is a good idea for any business you decide to work with.
• Ask them to provide you copies of their licenses, both local and state, and their liability insurance certificate. Make sure they are covered for at least $1 million in personal and general liability, and at least half a million in worker’s compensation.
• Verify their insurance by calling their carrier.
• Ask to speak to the job supervisor. This person will be your main contact for the job and it is important that you can work and communicate with them.
• Get an estimated turnaround. When will the work be completed? If your roofer tells you a few hours, you may want to look elsewhere because rushed work is often poor work.

 Do Your Homework

Never be afraid to talk to more than one contractor in the Chicagoland area. If a roofer tries to pressure you into not talking with other people, it may be a sign that they are not confident in their work. Do some research and compile a list of at least three roofing professionals with whom you want to speak. Get proposals, inspections and quotes from each. Here at ATJ’s Home Improvement we believe that an educated customer if the best customer. We want you to make the best decision, which to us means making an informed decision.

If you have suffered hail damage to your roof and would like an inspection or job quote, we are ready to work with you. Contact ATJ’s Home Improvement today!