This is a simple question with an easy answer. When doing ANY home improvement project where an outside contractor like Dependable Construction is being used it’s always a good idea to have a written contract. No matter how big or small the project may seem to be.
Long gone are the days of a promise, hand a shake and trusting a friend or local business to do a job for you. Now-a-days, there is so much money and labor involved with home improvement repairs its just plain crazy not to have some form of understanding of what the “scope of work” will be done, in a contract.
Having a clear written contract with your roofer, can relieve you of much grief later, in the event of a dispute.
What, Did you say dispute? No, that would never happen. Guess what folks, some of the biggest complaints filed against contractors is because “I didn’t understand, change orders, added costs like repairing dry rot, or I thought the was included in the cost of the roof job”. Yes, a job cost can change because of many reasons. That is why the scope of work needs to be very clear and in writing. Having the hourly rate in print should also be included in the event there is hidden or unexpected surprises like dry rot, broke rafters, multiple layers of roofing. Contractors can’t see through walls or under shingles so things will pop up. We also can’t see everything and it needs to be known how things will get handled if a surprise occurs.
What else should be included in a roofing contract? You should include everything you want done. The cost of completion of the job, including the cost of materials needed to do it. A good contract will have both the principles, addresses of place of business and the job site, with contact information. Just a tip – multiple phone numbers of interested parties are a good thing to have. Description of the work to be done and with a timeline. Type of materials to be used and roofing systems and colors installed. Materials warranty along with labor warranty. A copy of any general insurance certificates in case of an accident. Payment schedule including down payments, hourly rates for any work asked to be done not included in the scope of work. If the discovery of something that would change the scope of work is found and a savings or cost to the homeowner is justified, a change order should describe what is to be done and the value of the change to the original contracted price. Any addition to the job like adding a skylight during the roofing process is requested an amendment to the contract should be written up and signed. Some states allow a three notice of cancellation clause. I am sure there are other things but this give you a good start as to a contract with your roofer.
We all try the best to remember everything to do on a job but Dependable Construction always says, if it isn’t written down it probably won’t get done. A clearly written contract protects both parties and we strongly advise drawing one up, no matter who is doing your roof.
Dependable Construction can assets with all your home remodeling projects. We are a trusted contractor in Dayton, OH. We specializes in many different home improvement projects, including but not limited to roofing, siding, decks, windows, Skylights, drywall, painting and gutters. We can help you turn any house into your dream home while only using the highest-quality materials and best workmanship in the area.
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