A wisely chosen roofing contractor can help you save up to 50% on your yearly heating and cooling costs with a properly designed and installed roof.
Your home’s safety and financial security depend on picking the right residential roofing contractor. Many homeowners get taken advantage of by “storm chasers” – these are out-of-town contractors who show up after bad weather and often do poor work without any accountability. Florida law requires reputable roofing contractors to complete four years of combined relevant education and experience. They must also pass a state exam and clear a background check before working on your home legally.
Checking a Florida roofing contractor’s credentials should be your first step. Chase Roofing brings over 30 years of experience, and their longevity proves their reliability. Responsible contractors must carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation that protects their employees and your property.
Good roofers don’t come easy – you need solid research. This piece will guide you through everything you should know about choosing a South Florida roofing contractor who will give your home the quality workmanship it deserves.
Start with a Trusted Local Name—Chase Roofing
Chase Roofing has served Florida homeowners with honesty and excellence for years. If you’re ready to upgrade or repair your roof, our licensed team is ready to help. Don’t leave your home’s safety to chance—schedule your free inspection with Chase Roofing today.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
“Hiring an unlicensed contractor can lead to significant legal and financial consequences.” — Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, State regulatory agency overseeing contractor licensing
A storm-damaged roof requires quick but smart decisions. South Florida homeowners often make mistakes at the time they hire roofing contractors. These errors can get pricey and create serious problems down the road.
Hiring Without Checking Licenses
Homeowners make a serious mistake by not verifying their contractors’ licenses. California law requires licensed contractors for all jobs that cost more than $500 in labor and materials. Your risk increases with unlicensed contractors who usually lack proper insurance coverage.
You could face personal liability if an unlicensed worker gets hurt on your property. The courts have ruled that unlicensed contractors become your “employees,” which makes you responsible for their workers’ compensation benefits.
These unlicensed contractors haven’t completed the work to be done for quality roofing. Poor installation methods can damage your roof’s structure and invalidate your home insurance coverage.
Falling For Low Prices Or Verbal Promises
Verbal agreements create another risky situation. The law only recognizes verbal contracts for deals worth less than $500. This is a big deal as it means that roofing projects leave you with zero legal protection under verbal agreements.
Dishonest contractors might lure you with unrealistic prices. They later claim “unforeseen damage” or higher material costs after starting the project. Without detailed written agreements, these contractors just need more money for “extras”.
Professional roofing contractors provide written contracts that outline everything included and excluded from your project. This protects everyone from misunderstandings.
Rushing Into Decisions After A Storm
“Storm chasers” swarm into areas after severe weather hits. These traveling contractors watch weather reports and show up within days—sometimes hours—of major storms. They use aggressive sales tactics and play with your emotions to get quick contracts.
Storm chasers often show these red flags:
- Door-to-door sales with “free” roof inspections
- Pressure to sign contracts immediately
- Requests for large upfront payments
- No local office or verifiable reviews
- Offers to waive or cover insurance deductibles (which is insurance fraud)
Your insurance company should be your first call after a storm. Let their adjuster evaluate the damage before hiring any contractor for repairs.
How to Research a Roofing Contractor
Research helps you find a reliable roofing contractor in South Florida. You should verify credentials through official channels before signing any agreement with potential companies.
Use State Databases To Verify License And Company Status
Checking a contractor’s license status protects you. State databases let you search and verify contractor credentials easily. Florida residents can visit the Department of Business and Professional Regulation website to check licensing status and any disciplinary actions. The process is simple – just enter the contractor’s name or license number.
Check Affiliations With Roofing Associations
Professional organization memberships show a contractor’s steadfast dedication to industry standards. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) stands out as a respected roofing trade association nationwide. Regional groups like the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) add credibility to contractors in specific areas. These associations require members to follow ethical guidelines and provide ongoing education.
Look For Manufacturer Certifications
Manufacturer certifications prove that contractors have completed specialized product installation training. GAF, North America’s biggest roofing manufacturer, certifies contractors who meet strict standards and can offer better warranties.
Manufacturers don’t give these certifications easily. Contractors must demonstrate expertise and quality workmanship consistently. Certified contractors can offer stronger warranties on materials and workmanship because manufacturers have verified their installation methods.
Save Time—We’ve Already Passed the Test
Chase Roofing is licensed, insured, manufacturer-certified, and a proud member of leading roofing associations. We’ve built a reputation on transparency and accountability. Let us show you the difference of working with a top-rated Florida roofing contractor.
What to Look for in a Roofing Contractor
Finding a quality contractor takes more than checking if they have a license. You should look at several significant qualifications that set great contractors apart from average ones when you’re making your final choice.
Experience With Residential Roofing Systems
A good roofing contractor needs to know everything about residential roofing systems that work well in South Florida’s climate. You should look for someone who specializes in your specific roof type – asphalt shingles, metal, or tile. Companies like GAF give certifications to contractors who excel with specific products. These contractors can offer better warranties on materials and workmanship. The best choice is a contractor who has spent 5–10 years working with the type of roof you want.
Clear Written Estimates And Scope Of Work
The best contractors give you complete written estimates instead of quick numbers on business cards. A proper estimate includes:
- Detailed materials list with brands, product lines, and colors
- Cleanup and debris removal procedures
- Permit costs and licensing information
- Complete project timeline with start and completion dates
- Payment terms and schedule
These detailed estimates help avoid confusion and set clear expectations for everyone involved.
Proof Of Insurance And Safety Protocols
You should never work with a contractor who can’t prove they have workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. Get actual copies of these documents and call the insurance company to check if they’re still valid. Ask them about their safety measures too. Professional contractors protect your property by securing tarps from gutters to the ground. They also use magnetic tools to pick up any stray nails afterward.
Willingness To Answer Questions And Explain Options
Good contractors spend time explaining materials, installation methods, and your choices. They should give you straight answers about ventilation, drainage, flashing details, and warranty coverage. Watch how they respond to your questions during the first meeting. A contractor who takes time to explain technical details shows they value transparency and customer education.
We Explain Everything—Because You Deserve to Know
Our team walks you through every detail of your roofing project—from material selection to installation timelines. No confusing jargon. No pushy sales. Just real answers. Contact Chase Roofing today and get a roofing partner who puts your peace of mind first.
Making the Final Decision
You need to pick your roofing contractor after doing your research really well. This is a vital step that needs careful thought to make sure you get quality work that will keep your South Florida home protected for years.
Compare At Least 2–3 Bids
Getting multiple estimates will give you more than just price comparisons. A full roofing bid should list out materials, labor, and extra services. The lowest estimates should be within 5–10% of the average price – anything that’s a lot lower should raise red flags.
Look for these details when you review estimates:
- Material quality and types offered
- Projected timeline for completion
- Warranty offerings for both materials and workmanship
- Payment terms and schedule
Watch out for contractors who use super low prices to get your business – they might surprise you with extra costs once your project starts. Note that experienced roofing contractors with proper insurance have higher costs that show up in their pricing.
Trust Your Instincts And Comfort Level
The way contractors communicate during estimates often shows how they’ll handle the whole project. Watch how quickly and well they answer your questions. Good contractors take time to explain materials and installation steps clearly and patiently.
Your comfort level matters during these talks – this person will handle one of your home’s most important parts. Their professionalism, openness, and ability to address your concerns are key factors. Your gut feeling about which contractor seems most reliable and honest matters most.
Ensure Post-Project Support And Warranty Coverage
Everything in after-project support matters to keep you happy long-term. Quality contractors offer detailed warranties for both materials and workmanship. Manufacturer’s warranties usually cover material defects, while workmanship warranties protect you from installation problems.
Take time to read both warranty types before deciding. Florida contractors might offer workmanship warranties from 10–20 years – this is a big deal as it means that they exceed the minimum requirements. Strong warranty coverage shows the contractor’s confidence and steadfast dedication to your satisfaction years after they finish the job.
Compare Us—and You’ll See the Difference
Looking at bids? Let Chase Roofing give you a competitive, detailed estimate that outlines materials, timelines, and warranty coverage. We don’t hide fees or cut corners—we deliver lasting value. Request your personalized roofing estimate today.
Choose Confidence. Choose Chase Roofing.
When it comes to protecting your home from Florida’s relentless storm season, the roofing contractor you choose makes all the difference. At Chase Roofing, we don’t just meet expectations—we exceed them with licensed, insured, and expertly trained professionals who specialize in roof repair, replacement, and storm-resistant installations throughout South Florida.
We understand the risks that come with quick fixes, unqualified contractors, and storm-chasing sales pitches. That’s why our team prioritizes clear communication, detailed contracts, and long-term workmanship guarantees—so you can feel confident at every stage of the process.
Don’t wait until damage forces your hand. Whether you’ve noticed wear and tear or just want to be prepared before the next storm hits, we’re here to help you make a smart, secure choice.
Call Chase Roofing today to schedule your free roof inspection or repair estimate. Let us show you what true roofing professionalism looks like—built on trust, experience, and results.
FAQs
Q1. How can I verify if a roofing contractor is licensed in Florida?
You can use the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website to check a contractor’s licensing status. Simply enter the contractor’s name or license number to verify their standing and check for any disciplinary actions.
Q2. What are some red flags to watch out for when hiring a roofing contractor?
Be cautious of contractors who offer unrealistically low prices, pressure you to sign contracts immediately, request large upfront payments, or lack a local office and verifiable reviews. Also, be wary of those who offer to waive or cover insurance deductibles, as this is considered insurance fraud.
Q3. Why is it important to get a written estimate from a roofing contractor?
A written estimate protects both you and the contractor from misunderstandings. It should include a detailed materials list, cleanup procedures, permit costs, project timeline, and payment terms. This comprehensive document establishes clear expectations for the project.
Q4. What types of insurance should a reputable roofing contractor have?
A reputable roofing contractor should carry both workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. Always request physical copies of these documents and contact the insurance provider to confirm they’re current.
Q5. How long should a roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty last?
In Florida, some quality contractors offer workmanship warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years. This coverage demonstrates the contractor’s confidence in their work and commitment to your long-term satisfaction. Always review both material and workmanship warranties carefully before making your decision.
