7 Essentials When Hiring a Roofing Contractor

When you need to replace your roof, how should you choose a roofing contractor? To ensure quality and avoid scams, there are a few things you need to verify and consider before hiring a roofing contractor.

1. Licensing & Insurance

Any reputable roofing contractor is fully licensed and insured in the state. Perhaps, their license number is listed on their business card, brochure, website, etc. If their license number isn’t listed, don’t be afraid to ask.

In Wisconsin, contractors are required to have a Dwelling Contractor Certification for the business and a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification for the individuals. The licensing requires a 12-hour course on construction law and codes plus insurance and bonding. The Dwelling Contractor Certification must be renewed annually for the business and the Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification must be renewed biennially for the individual.

In Illinois, contractors are required to apply through Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR), designate a "qualifying party" to pass an exam, meet insurance and bond requirements, and register their business. The license must be renewed annually.

In addition to a state license, you will want to make sure they have general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. You can always ask to see copies of both the liability insurance and workers compensation insurance. General liability insurance protects you if the contractor causes damage to your property. Without it, you could be liable for any repairs. Workers’ compensation insurance protects you if someone gets injured on your property. Without it, you could be responsible for the injured workers medical bills. Verifying these essentials protects you as the property owner.

PK Contractors is licensed in Wisconsin (#052100577) and Illinois (#104.019449).

2. Local Reputation

After a storm, storm chasing contractors show up and then disappear after the job is done. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) provides additional guidance on how to Choose a Trustworthy Contractor for Storm Damage Repairs.

When it comes to hiring a roofing contractor, you want to work with someone who is local and has a good reputation. For a local roofing contractor, specifically look for the following:

• A physical location in the state

• Years of service in the state

• Google reviews, Facebook reviews, etc.

Local contractors who know the area understand the weather and climate, building codes, and inspection requirements. They will get the job done the right way. Plus, if an issue arises in the future, you know who to call to address the repairs.

PK Contractors is based in Fort Atkinson, WI and has a second location in Beloit, WI. Their headquarters are located at N441 Old 26, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. View our Google Reviews

3. Experience & Business Longevity

The longer, the better. Ask how long they have been in business and how many years of experience they have. PK Contractors was founded in 2021. Prior to PK Contractors, the co-owners all worked in the industry and bring more than 40 years of combined experience. We started our business because we wanted to do it better, truly take care of our customers, and empower you to take pride in the ownership of your home.

4. Warranty

Before hiring a roofing contractor, verify that the contractor offers both a manufacturer’s warranty and a workmanship warranty. Roof warranties usually include the manufacturer’s warranty that covers the roofing materials and workmanship warranty that covers the contractor’s work.

Think of warranties as an indicator of value & performance. The leading shingle manufacturers, like CertainTeed, provide more inclusive manufacturers’ warranties. Experienced contractors stand by their work and offer a workmanship warranty. Review what types of defects are covered, any exclusions, and the duration of the warranty.

PK Contractors offers both a CertainTeed manufacturers’ warranty and a workmanship warranty.

5. A Written Quote

Ask for a quote in writing and understand exactly what you are getting. The quote should be detailed  and itemize the specific materials and scope of labor. Make sure you understand what is included and what may incur additional charges.

If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. As Benjamin Franklin said, “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.” The lowest bid is not necessarily the best value long-term. When it comes to your roof, it is worth investing in quality that lasts.

As an example, some contractors use inferior products for what lies underneath the shingle to cut costs. This can lead to poor quality and even void warranties. At PK Contractors, we use the entire CertainTeed roofing system to deliver quality. We always provide written quotes and welcome any questions you may have!

6. Manufacturer Certifications

Experienced contractors often have manufacturer certifications, which require them to meet strict standards for installation and training. Contractors who hold manufacturer certifications are more likely to provide better installation quality and extended manufacturer warranties. PK Contractors is certified with CertainTeed and has been a ShingleMaster™ since 2022

7. Communication & Professionalism

How a contractor communicates before the job often reflects how the project will go. Look for a contractor who responds promptly, clearly communicates, provides professional proposal, and ethical sales practices (i.e., no high pressure tactics).

At PK Contractors, our mission is to perform at the highest level of professionalism and workmanship for our customers. Our strengths come from our consistent performance, determination, and surpassing our clients’ expectations, by leaving a smile on their face.

Contact PK Contractors Today

Serving homeowners in southern Wisconsin & northern Illinois, PK Contractors is your locally owned & owner operated exterior contractor specializing in roofing, siding, gutters, and windows. With a proven track record of integrity, excellence, and dedication to our customers, we are committed to building & maintaining your trust with quality work.

When you choose PK Contractors, you can expect:

• Five-year workmanship guarantee & manufacturer’s warranty

• Dedication to a clean and safe work environment

• Quality materials and experienced, high-end workmanship

• Multiple financing options are available

• Fully licensed and insured in Wisconsin & Illinois

Estimates are always free! Contact us today to schedule an estimate.