Commercial buildings require maintenance and upkeep to help prevent issues and keep the building in good shape. The roof can be a challenging area to assess from the ground, depending on the type of roof, so it is important to have a professional to call when any roofing issues are suspected. For building owners, there are a few things to check out before hiring a roofer.
Determine What the Roof Needs and the Budget
If there are any existing issues with the roof, it is important to know what the roof needs and how much can be spent on repairs. While the building owner may not go on the roof to determine the full extent of the damage, they should have an idea of what is wrong and what might need to be done. They should also take the time to consider how much they can afford to spend on the repairs before hiring a commercial roofer to ensure the project will be within their budget.
Request Licensing and Insurance Information
Building owners will want to request licensing and insurance information from the roofing company. A license may not be required in all areas, but if there are problems with the roof once repairs are done, the license provides the building owner with a path toward getting it fixed. Insurance should be required for all construction jobs, as without insurance the building owner may be liable for any injuries that occur.
Look Into Permit Requirements
Many areas will require permits for work being done on an existing building. If there is major damage to the roof or there will be any changes to the roof, a building permit may be required instead. Building owners will want to check out the permits on their own to know what is required for the job and make sure they know who will pull the permits. The roofing company is typically in charge of this, but the building owner may do it in some cases.
Ask About Safety Procedures
Safety should be a top concern for the building owner and the roofing company. It is imperative for the building owner to understand what safety procedures are common for roofing projects and to look into what the roofing company does to ensure all employees are safe on the job. Ask what safety procedures are in place, how they handle potential safety concerns, and what to do if any safety procedures are not being followed by the team.
Ask About Timeline for Repairs
It is always a good idea to ask how long repairs might take to get an idea of when they will be completed. If the building must be closed while repairs are done, the building owner will want to make sure the repairs are done as quickly as possible. They will also want to ensure the roofing company is going to get started right away, as the cost to repair can increase over time as the damage gets worse.
Whether you're planning for the future, checking the status of the roof, or in need of immediate repairs, it is important to find the right roofer for the job. Building owners will want to make sure they look into everything listed here before hiring a commercial roofer to ensure any help they need is done correctly and that the building will remain in good shape.