When it comes to your gutter replacement project, it would be wise to research and educate yourself on who you should trust to get it done. With so many contractors available, plenty of red flags can tip you off if something isn’t right with a prospect you are looking to hire for the job. Let’s look at the common warning signs to keep an eye out for when searching for the best contractor for your needs.
Red Flag #1: Unlicensed Contractor
One of the biggest red flags that should not be overlooked is whether or not the gutter contractor is licensed. Working with an unlicensed contractor puts you and your assets at considerable risk because they can easily take your money without completing any work. You can’t file a complaint if anything goes wrong with the job as they’re not even officially registered in any capacity. It’s always best to hire a contractor who can provide proof of license, insurance and all necessary credentials upon request.
Red Flag #2: No Reputable Reviews
Another warning sign to be aware of is if the contractor doesn’t have any online reviews. Reviews are important in choosing an installer for your project because they provide valuable insight into what to expect from their services. Taking a few moments to read through customer feedback will indicate whether they’re honest and reliable while also letting you know if there have been issues with their past work performance.
Red Flag #3: Poor Communication
Another sign that you may be dealing with a less-than-desirable gutter contractor is poor communication skills. When interviewing potential installers for the job, ask relevant questions and pay close attention to how they respond. Words like “I don’t know” or “It depends” might indicate that they aren’t completely confident about the services they are offering. Professional over-the-phone manners and knowledgeable answers should tell you if this is someone who knows what they are doing when it comes to providing gutter installation services.
Red Flag #4: Unclear Estimates
It’s always a good sign if the contractor can provide you with an accurate estimate of what the job will cost upfront, as this shows they are taking your needs and budget into account. A lowball quote that isn’t detailed usually suggests that there could be hidden costs further down the line, which is not what any homeowner wants to experience.
Red Flag #5: Low-Quality Materials
Taking the time to research about certain gutter materials is another way to ensure that it will be money well spent. Ask for references on brands, warranties, and other details about the products for your gutter installation. Quality materials last longer, so investing in these now could save you money in the long run.
Knowing when to spot potential red flags can help ensure your property is properly taken care of and all services are completed without surprises. As a roofing and gutter installation contractor, Howard Roofing & Home Improvements takes the stress out of your home improvement project, making sure you get a quality job done. We’ve got you covered if you need roofing services in St. Louis or St. Charles, MO! Call (636) 296-1057 for more information, or fill out our contact form to book an appointment with our team today.