Get It in Writing!
The whole idea behind the contract is that the job be completed to your satisfaction. For that reason, it should not be some standardized prefab document put together by the contractor. You should have plenty of input to make sure the contract contains every last detail of the job--down to the kind and number of nails to be used.
First of all, assume nothing and never sign a blank or incomplete contract.
Be sure you know what you need and indicate with words or pictures exactly what areas are to be covered. Is it the whole roof you’re replacing? Is the garage included? Do you want one or more layers of the old roof removed? If so, state that a layer of felt (tar paper) is to be laid down and indicate the weight to be used.
Also, if you’re having the old roof removed, who is responsible for protecting your home in case of rain? Who is liable for any damage that might occur?
The contract should say when the work should begin--and when it should be completed. Use dates, not number of working days. This way, if your contractor drags his feet on starting, you have the opportunity to choose another roofer.
The Contractor’s State License Law requires that work “substantially commence” within 20 days from the approximate date specified. Include a description of what constitutes substantial commencement of the work.
Spell out in detailed language what materials are to be used and the manner in which they will be installed. Read the material manufacturer’s instructions and warranty conditions on the roofing you have selected. Make sure that the manufacturer’s application instructions are included in the contract. If your roof is installed improperly, your manufacturer’s warranty may be void.
Don’t forget that the labor warranty is separate (it is issued by the contractor himself, while the material warranty comes from the manufacturer). Press your roofer for at least a two-year warranty on his workmanship. In California’s drought-prone climate, it may take that long to get a few good soakings in to test the job.
Specify that your contractor is responsible for obtaining all roofing permits from the city and for arranging all required inspections.
Know exactly what you need and spell it out. Do flashings need to be replaced? How about the gutters? Is there rot in the fascias? If you are replacing flashings, indicate what material is to be used and what weight they will be.
Spell out the exact price for the work and the terms and conditions of payment. Know that California law requires that your down payment may not be more than $1,000 or 10% of the contract price--whichever is less. Finance charges are not included in this limit. See accompanying story for more details on payment.
Debris: Make sure you aren’t left with it. Give detailed clean-up instructions and state your contractor is responsible for hauling all the trash away.
