Demands For Roofing Work Soar With Onslaught Of Bay Area Storms
SAN FRANCISCO (KPIX 5) -- The recent storms have ended the drought for Bay Area roofing contractors, whose business really dried up over the past few years.
But their phones are now ringing due to the recent storms. Homeowners are calling with roofing problems caused by downed trees and water leaks.
Roofer Chris Testa of Sure Roofing said, "When there's no weather, people don't worry about roofs. As soon as the weather arrives, it becomes a big priority."
Roofers are so busy that they're not taking new appointments until the new year.
Testa on Wednesday visited one San Francisco homeowner who got her roof done 20 years ago. "If that lasted 20 years, you got your moneys worth," said Testa.
While Sure Roofing is a Diamond Certified company, not all roofers are created equal. A recent survey by Consumers' Checkbook found many were rated inferior by at least 20% of their customers.
So before hiring a roofer this rainy season, there are a few things you need to know. First, get bids from several roofers. Consumers' Checkbook found quotes for the same job could vary by as much $14,000 dollars
But price isn't everything. It's good to look at the entire scope of the work and experience of the roofer.
Before hiring anyone - check their license, liability and workers' comp insurance with the contractors state license board, and be sure to get a copy of the warranty for any materials your roofer plans to use along with at least a 5-year warranty on the roofers' work.
Also, get a fixed price contract specifying everything form materials to who's hauling away the debris.
It's important to not pay a big chunk of money up front. State law says contractors in California can only ask for ten percent or $1,000 up front, whichever is less.
Most importantly, remember that preventing a leak is far cheaper than repairing one. So don't wait until a rainy day.
