KNOW YOUR CONSUMER RIGHTS

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LICENSED ROOFING CONTRACTORS AND THOSE NOT LICENSED?

Understand first that today the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR) does NOT oversee an ocupational license for Roofers in this state. ANYONE can call themselves a roofing contractor in Texas and operate as a legitimate business and without insurance. As a result scams and disappointed consumers are prevelant. If someone presents themselves as "licensed" they will be able to provide proof of that credential with a certificate issued by RCAT.

RCAT's Licensed Roofing Contractor Program participants simply prove that they have the technical and business knowledge to provide top quality service by voluntarily completing the application process, showing proof of financial responsibility and insurance coverage and then passing the licensing exams.

HOW DOES THE LICENSING PROGRAM HELP PREVENT CUSTOMERS FROM GETTING TAKEN BY "FLY-BY-NIGHT" OPERATIONS?

All licensed roofing contractors are required to provide proof that they have been doing business in Texas for at least three years. These are usually established, qualified contractors who plan to be around for a long time. After all, a warranty is only as good as the company that offers it.

WHY ISN'T THE LOWEST BID ALWAYS THE BEST DEAL?

There are many factors in addition to cost to consider. A roof needs to be done right the first time. Otherwise you may face high repair costs - or even have to have the roof entirely redone. Product rating and quality also differ greatly as well as warranties so be sure that you fully understand what is included in your bid.

WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE SURE I'M WORKING WITH A PROFESSIONAL?

  1. Be sure you're comfortable with the contractor and the roof system he/she is suggesting. A pro is going to be happy to answer your questions.
  2. Check customer references. Ask for the names of several customers with roofs similar to yours. Be sure the contractor has performed as promised.
  3. Check financial information and insurance coverage. A professional roofing contractor will give you the names of creditors and banking references as well as a certificate of insurance coverage. Make sure the roofing contractor is a responsible business person.
  4. Call the Better Business Bureau. You will find out quickly if there have been a lot of complaints about the contractor or if any complaints have not been satisfactorily resolved.
  5. Insist on a written proposal. You'll get it from a professional roofing contractor. Examine it to make sure you think it is complete and fair.
  6. Do not sign any document until you have had time to review the document. In the State of Texas you have 3 days to cancel a contract in writing so DO NOT SIGN UNTIL YOU ARE SURE.

HOW DO I FIND A PROFESSIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTOR?

You are in the right place! Search for a vetted roofing contractor here on our site using your zip code OR search the RCAT State Membership Directory at www.rcat.net

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