How to Choose a Licensed Roofing Contractor in Edmonton

Choosing a roofer isn’t merely about finding someone to install shingles. The contractor you hire is important because your roof shields your home from Edmonton’s snow, hail, wind, and freeze/thaw conditions.

Though it is appealing at a low price, a lack of workmanship, contract terms, or insurance can be costly down the road. Here is how to choose a licensed roofing contractor in Edmonton!

Start With Proper Business Licensing

When you are hiring a roofing contractor in Edmonton, you should be able to tell that the company has the contracts and licenses that are required to operate. As described by the City of Edmonton, licensing reviews are undertaken to ensure businesses comply with the rules related to zoning, building code, public safety, among others. 

Ask for:

• Legal business name
• City of Edmonton business licence
• Alberta business registration details
• Physical business address
• Written contact information

Try and don’t depend on a logo, website, or social media page alone. If a contractor is not willing to give fundamental information about the company, then they are not a legitimate company. 

Check for Alberta Prepaid Contractor Licensing

This is particularly important when the contractor is asking for payment before work is done. A prepaid contracting business typically involves a series of prepaid contracts that are negotiated and completed outside of the contracting business’s office with the prepaid contractor taking payment in advance of completing all work, usually in Alberta. These contracts are for construction, repair, maintenance or improvement work to private dwellings.

If the roofer asks for a deposit, simply inquire if they have signed up and obtained an Alberta’s prepaid contracting licence. This is a way of keeping homeowners safe from making risky payment deals. 

Ask for Insurance and WCB Clearance

The contractor should have and provide liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. Roofing is a high-risk job, so don’t overlook this job.

WCB-Alberta states a clearance letter shows if a contractor was covered by WCB and if the account is good standing. It also alerts that if not otherwise cleared, there can be circumstances when the hiring party may be held responsible for the unpaid premiums.

Before work starts, ask for:

• Proof of liability insurance
• WCB clearance letter
• Safety procedures for workers
• Confirmation that subcontractors are covered

Find the best roofing companies in Edmonton!

Compare Detailed Written Quotes

Deal with a professional roofing quote that is easily understood and clear. Watch for semi-technical samples.

A good quote needs to contain: 

• Roofing material type and brand
• Shingle style, colour, and warranty
• Underlayment and ice/water protection
• Flashing, vents, drip edge, and ridge caps
• Tear-off and disposal costs
• Decking repair pricing
• Cleanup and final inspection
• Payment schedule

When one is considerably lower in cost, find out what is being excluded. 

Review Experience, Reviews, and Local Knowledge

Having local experience is requisite for Edmonton roofing. Contractors need to be familiar with these factors: snow load, attic ventilation, ice dam prevention, hail damage, and concerns of installation would be helpful when dealing with cold weather. If the reviews are consistent over time, check the pictures of the project, manufacturer certification, and clear explanation. 

Make Sure Everything Is in Writing

Do not rely on promises. Remember to agree on the scope of the work, the payment terms, how much the project will cost, when it will begin, what guarantees will be provided, and who will be in charge of cleaning up.

Discuss possible limitations on permits as it relates to your project. The City of Edmonton suggests homeowners take time to check with renovating permit requirements as some renovations may be subject to permits and inspection requirements. 

Red Flags to Avoid

• Pressures you to sign immediately
• Demands large cash payments
• Refuses to provide licence or insurance proof
• Has no written contract
• Offers a price that seems unrealistic
• Cannot explain materials or warranty terms

Final Thoughts

How to Choose a Licensed Roofing Contractor in Edmonton? The only way to decide on a licensed roofing contractor Edmonton is through verification and not a guess. Before hiring, ensure business licensing, prepaid and contractor requirements, insurance, WCB clearance, and local experience, to ensure a written estimate, warranties, and experience.

It’s important for a good roofer to have a clear idea of the process and answer questions, as well as providing everything in writing. It can help you save some money, avoid a headache and prevent damage to your home if you take the time to doublecheck these steps before you even start the project. 

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