How to find a reliable roofer in Sheffield

Posted by Craig Foster (Proprietor) - A1 Roofing Services (Sheffield)

So how should you go about avoiding unqualified (cowboy) roofing firms or individuals and instead choose a competent company for your roofing in Sheffield? 
It's a fact that selecting someone to undertake roof repairs or re roofing on your property can be a daunting task. Especially if it’s the first time you've been faced with the need to hire a roofing professional for this type of a job.
Sadly over the past few years during the current economic depression there have been a lot of so called roofers appearing all over Sheffield. Many being semi or even unskilled people desperate to earn money no matter what. A van, ladders, a few hand tools plus business cards and off they go wreaking havoc at every turn.Granted some companies or individual roofers are legitimate, skilled and professional but others are definitely not. The roofing contractor you end up choosing should be trustworthy, reliable and capable of getting your roof back into good order and leak free the first time of asking. Not making it worse!

Gale damaged roof in Sheffield

After more than thirty five years personal experience of the roofing industry I believe the most important part of a successful roofing experience is the contractor you employ to carry out your roofing project. Therefore I’d recommend that you take your time, do your research and only hire someone you feel comfortable with that you can talk to. Someone who has specific knowledge of your type of roofing problem and most importantly can back that up with references from previous clients who had similar work done that they were happy with. Investing in a new roof or a roof repair in Sheffield is something that you can play a major role in by doing your homework and finding the right contractor for the job. The saying ‘Pay cheap, Pay twice’ is something worth remembering too.

Is the Roofing Company Insured? 

Next you should make certain that the roofing contractor you plan using has the correct insurance. You should ask to see a copy of this. Also ask to see his tax reference number. Any legitimate contractor will be happy to provide you with these documents. It may seem easiest to hire your next door neighbour’s cousin twice removed or an inexpensive ‘handyman’ but again going cheap may cost you dear in the long run. Don’t come home from work one day and find that one of the roofers working on your property has been injured from a fall as a result of not using scaffolding where Health and Safety clearly states it is required. Worse still they’re planning suing you or your home-owners insurance to cover their costs. The company you choose should be able to provide you with the name and phone number of their insurance agent in order for you to verify that they have their own insurance cover in case a problem arises. You should immediately and automatically reject any roofing contractor without the proper insurance i.e. Public Liability Insurance cover at the very least.

Make sure there’s a Long Local History

Has your chosen roofing contractor worked in the local Sheffield area for a lengthy amount of time? Do they have roofing testimonials, written references and on line reviews from happy customers they can show you? A long local history with satisfied clients and a great resume full of experience with a variety of roofing applications is a bare minimum requirement. Don’t skimp on experience and make sure the contractor you end up with is familiar with the ins and outs of the roofing trade generally as well as your specific job.

Always insist on a Quotation not an Estimate and get it in writing. 

While you should get at least three quotes from different roofing companies, make sure you also get them in writing with everything itemized and spelled out in black and white including materials to be used and warranties, etc.. Compare your three quotes closely and don’t make your choice based on price alone. There’s generally always a reason why cheap roofing companies are cheap.

  

Make Sure Your Roofer Knows Your Roof! 

Your roofer should be an expert with installation or repair of the specific roofing material you are interested in using or that is currently in use on your property. Roofing companies often specialise in specific materials like tile, slate, felt and liquid roofing etc. It’s no good employing a felt roofer for instance to undertake a re roofing project using natural slate. It’s bound to end in complaints.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions 

There are no silly questions in roofing. If something isn't clear, ask. 

I believe that my company A1 Roofing Services is one of the leading local roofing business’s in the Sheffield area. We offer a large variety of roofing and associated services including domestic and commercial re-roofing and repair. We provide a full gutter repair and installation service and are experts in lead work and felt flat roofing etc. For further details on our full range of services why not visit us at www.a1roofingservices.co.uk or call me direct on 07939 203982. Finally we are based at 148 Heavygate Road, Crookes, Sheffield S10 1PF

Craig Foster (Proprietor – A1 Roofing Services)