When you first start discussing or reviewing bids for your commercial roofing project with a potential contractor, it’s important to look for major red flags that could indicate issues with the rest of the process. 

Even if the roofing work is completed as specified, choosing the wrong contractor could leave you dealing with a mess or paying more than is necessary in the long run. Make sure you’re hiring the right local commercial roofer in Kansas City by watching out for these common red flags.

Pressure or Rush to Act

Reputable commercial roofers are experienced enough to know that your relationship is a partnership, and pressure like hard selling to sign a contract is not good for that partnership. A good contractor may explain the severity of the damage or highlight what could happen if leaking continues, but they should always meet you where you are at. 

If you’re feeling rushed to choose a specific contractor, you may not get a chance to fully investigate the licensing status and reviews of all of your options. Make a point to only work with companies that respect your time and let you make your own decisions about commercial roofing repairs.

Informal Contract and Documentation

All commercial roofing projects require written contracts. There’s no minor repair small enough to risk hiring a repair team without clearly outlined terms. Written contracts protect both the roofing company and you as the building owner, so they’re a part of any reliable contractor’s workflow. Companies that do not utilize professional contracts are ones to watch out for. A good contract will specify exactly what work the team will complete and provide accurate estimates for each part of the process.

Contact After a Local Storm

commercial-roof-damaged-by-storm

Be wary of roofing companies that appear only after a severe storm. These “storm chasers” often travel to affected areas, looking to capitalize on urgent roof repairs. While they may offer quick fixes, they usually lack the long-term presence and commitment of reputable local contractors. 

Without a proven track record or established reputation in Kansas City, these companies may perform substandard work, leaving you with unresolved issues once they move on to the next storm-affected area. Choosing a company that operates year-round ensures you have a reliable partner for ongoing maintenance and support.

No Project Examples or Testimonials

Local commercial roofers who provide great work are well known for their reputation. If a company claims to have operated in Kansas City for years but can’t produce any positive testimonials or local examples of its work, it’s either making false claims or not providing the quality work it promises. 

Examining completed roofing projects in particular gives insight into their expertise and workmanship, particularly for buildings similar to yours. A reputable commercial roofer should have a portfolio showcasing successful local projects and be able to provide references or testimonials from satisfied clients. If a company lacks these examples, it may indicate inexperience or issues with quality, making it crucial to research thoroughly before committing. Verifiable past work is a key indicator of reliability and craftsmanship!

Unusually Low Bids

It’s tempting to act quickly and schedule a major commercial roof repair or replacement as soon as you receive a low bid. However, unusually low bids indicate that a roofing company may have a plan to install lower-quality materials or otherwise cut corners. Raw material costs for commercial roofing systems like TPO, BUR, and modified bitumen are largely the same regardless of the installer. That means they’ll have to save money somewhere else to offer you deep savings. Rushed installation or unskilled installers could lead to extensive damage. Go with a local roofing company you can trust rather than shopping for the lowest bid alone, and remember – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is! 

Demanding Upfront Pay

While it’s common to place a deposit on a large commercial roofing project, you shouldn’t have to pay for the entire total upfront. This can indicate a company doesn’t have the liquid assets to order materials and rent equipment on their own. Working with a well-established local roofing company, such as Delta Innovative Services, with years of combined roofing experience, will ensure that you only pay what’s fair. Make sure you understand payment milestones and deadlines before signing a contract so that you know what to expect!

Hiding the Estimate Details

Clear and accurate estimates help prepare you for investing in commercial roof repairs or replacement. Inaccurate or unclear estimate details make it hard to pin down what you agreed on after the work wraps up. If there’s a dispute over the roof, a clear estimate makes it easier to come to a conclusion that works for both you and the roofing company. Keep track of any changes made to the estimate throughout the process to ensure you know why the final cost varies from what you first expected to pay for the roof work.

The Bottom Line: Choose Your Commercial Roofer Wisely

Choosing the right commercial roofer in Kansas City is crucial to ensuring your project’s success and avoiding future headaches. By watching for red flags, such as pressure to act quickly, vague contracts, storm-chasing businesses, or unusually low bids, you can make an informed decision. Evaluating previous projects and testimonials provides insight into a company’s expertise and reputation, ensuring you partner with a professional team that values quality and transparency. Delta Innovative Services offers the reliability and experience you need for successful, long-lasting commercial roofing solutions. Contact us today for more information about our roofing services.