As a homeowner, you might have heard horror stories of shoddy builders or dodgy roofing companies leaving behind leaky, substandard roofs. To help you steer clear of these “cowboy” roofers, we’ve put together some handy tips on vetting your roofing contractor.
Shoddy builders often cut corners or lack proper training, which can leave your roof in a state of disrepair. Poor workmanship leads to leaks, rust, and costly damage down the line. The best defense is knowing what to look for in a reputable roofer. Here are some essential ways to spot and avoid a cowboy roofer:
Tips to Avoid ‘Cowboy’ Roofers
Check for Licensing and Qualifications
Only hire a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) for roofing work. In New Zealand, LBPs have been assessed as competent to carry out residential building projects. You can verify a roofer’s credentials on the official LBP register online. A qualified contractor will gladly provide their LBP number or certification. This ensures they have the training and knowledge required to do the job right.
Look for Roofing / Building Industry Memberships
Reputable companies often belong to professional associations. For example, Huston Cross is a member of the Roofing Association of New Zealand (RANZ), which signals a commitment to industry best practices. Membership in a group like RANZ gives you extra assurance that the roofer adheres to high standards and keeps up with the latest regulations and techniques.
Ask About Materials and Warranties
Pay attention to the products a roofer suggests for your project. Are they using high-quality, NZ-proven materials? Trusted brands like Colorsteel and ColorCote are designed for New Zealand conditions and come with solid manufacturer warranties. Stay clear of contractors who push cheaper materials. A reliable roofer will also inform you about any product warranties.
Insist on Workmanship Guarantees
Not all problems can be foreseen, so find out if the roofer will stand by their work. Legitimate roofing companies provide written guarantees for their workmanship. We, for instance, offers robust warranty coverage on new roofs, including a 20-year warranty on roofing materials and a 5-year guarantee on our workmanship. Avoid any contractor who won’t guarantee their work or who disappears when issues arise.
Check Their Construction Site and Health and Safety Compliance
Pay a visit to one of their active construction sites. A trustworthy roofing contractor in Christchurch will make safety a top priority. Check if they follow Site Safe or similar safety programs and use proper fall protection and scaffolding on the job. Cowboy roofers will probably skip all of the safety measures to save money.
Roffers Reputation and Experience
Do some research on the roofer’s track record. How long have they been in business, and what do past clients say? Longevity can be a good indicator of consistent quality. A company that’s been in roofing for decades is less likely to vanish overnight.
Look for online reviews or ask for references. A reputable Christchurch roofing company would have established local reputation and would have numerous satisfied customers. Also, find out if they have experience with your specific type of roof (long run roofing, corrugated roofing, concrete tile, metal tile, membrane, etc.).
In short, protecting yourself from cowboy roofers comes down to doing a bit of homework. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about qualifications, affiliations, materials, and guarantees. A genuine professional will appreciate informed customers.
And finally, trust your instincts. If a quote seems too good to be true – it probably is. Remember that a poorly installed roof can cost you far more in the long run. It’s worth investing in a qualified and reputable roofing specialist.
Need roof repairs or looking for re-roofing in Christchurch to experts, our experienced team does it all with integrity and skill. If you want your job done right the first time, just contact our roofing specialists for a free quote or consultation.