When it comes to protecting your home, your roof is your
first line of defense against the elements. So when repairs or replacements are
needed, hiring the right professional is essential. Unfortunately, many
homeowners make costly errors during the selection process. If you’re looking
for a residential roofing contractor in Andover MN, avoiding the following mistakes can save you time, money, and a
lot of headaches.
1. Failing to Verify Licensing and Insurance
One of the most common—and potentially dangerous—mistakes
homeowners make is hiring a roofing contractor without verifying their
credentials. A licensed residential roofing contractor in Andover MN will meet
the necessary state and local requirements to perform roofing work legally and
professionally.
Even more important is checking for insurance. Proper
liability and workers' compensation coverage protects you if someone is injured
on your property or if any accidental damage occurs during the job.
What to Do:
Ask for proof of both licensing and insurance. Reputable
contractors will be happy to provide documentation.
2. Choosing Based on Price Alone
Everyone wants to save money, but going with the cheapest
quote can lead to poor workmanship, low-quality materials, and even incomplete
projects. Remember, you often get what you pay for—especially in roofing.
Choosing the lowest bidder may seem like a deal at first,
but it could result in costly repairs or full replacement down the line.
What to Do:
Compare more than just the price. Look at the scope of work,
materials used, warranties offered, and the company’s reputation.
3. Not Checking Local References or Reviews
You wouldn’t hire someone to work inside your home without
doing a background check—your roof should be no different. Many homeowners make
the mistake of hiring a contractor based on flashy marketing or a quick quote
without digging into their past performance.
Reviews and references offer valuable insights into how a
contractor operates and treats their customers.
What to Do:
Ask your potential residential roofing contractor in Andover
MN for at least three local references. Then, follow up. Also, check online
reviews on Google, BBB, and local Facebook community groups.
4. Overlooking Manufacturer Certifications
Did you know that some roofing contractors are certified by
leading roofing manufacturers? This isn’t just a marketing perk—it often means
they’ve received advanced training and can offer extended warranties.
Hiring a contractor without these certifications might limit
your warranty options and raise questions about their qualifications.
What to Do:
Ask if the contractor is certified by any major
manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed. These certifications are
a strong signal of professionalism and product knowledge.
5. Ignoring the Warranty Details
Not all warranties are created equal. Some homeowners make
the mistake of assuming that every roofing job comes with long-term protection.
Others don’t realize that warranties for materials and workmanship are
separate.
If your residential roofing contractor in Andover MN offers
no workmanship warranty—or only a vague verbal promise—you could be on your own
if problems arise later.
What to Do:
Ask for written copies of both material and labor
warranties. Understand what is covered, for how long, and what could void the
warranty.
6. Skipping the Written Contract
Verbal agreements can lead to miscommunication,
misunderstandings, or outright fraud. Unfortunately, some homeowners agree to
roofing jobs with only a handshake deal—only to run into issues when the contractor
fails to follow through.
What to Do:
Always insist on a written contract that outlines the
project scope, materials, timeline, payment terms, and warranty coverage. It
protects both you and the contractor and ensures you're on the same page.
7. Not Asking About Permits and Cleanup
Many roofing projects in Andover MN require permits to
comply with local building codes. Some contractors may try to skip this step to
cut corners—which can land you in legal or safety trouble later.
Additionally, some homeowners forget to ask how cleanup will
be handled. Leftover nails, shingles, and debris can damage your yard or pose a
safety risk.
What to Do:
Ask your residential roofing contractor in Andover MN if
they handle permits and inspections. Also, ask about their post-job cleanup
process and whether they use magnetic tools to collect nails.
Final Thoughts
Hiring the right residential roofing contractor in Andover
MN isn’t just about fixing or replacing a roof—it’s about protecting your home,
family, and finances. By avoiding these seven common mistakes, you’ll be much
better prepared to choose a trustworthy, experienced contractor who delivers
quality workmanship and long-term value. Don’t rush the decision. Do your
research, ask smart questions, and work with a contractor who prioritizes
honesty, safety, and customer satisfaction.
