When it’s time to repair or replace your roof, you’ll likely find many roofing companies in your area. Given the wide range of options, selecting the most suitable one can be difficult. While reading customer reviews and comparing prices are important steps, one thing you should always check is whether the roofing contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured.
What Does “Bonded Roofer” Mean?
A bonded roofer is a roofing contractor who has purchased a surety bond from a bonding company. This type of bond, often referred to as a Residential Roofer Bond, serves as a legal safeguard for the homeowner in case the contractor fails to fulfil the contract terms.
In other words, if the roofer doesn’t finish the job, does poor-quality work, or doesn’t follow the agreement, the bonding company steps in to help fix the situation. The bonding company may pay to finish the job or hire another contractor to complete it. This gives the homeowner extra security and peace of mind. To obtain a bond, a roofer must demonstrate that they are reliable and financially sound.
They usually have to submit:
- A business plan
- Financial records
- References or a track record of good work
This helps the bonding company decide if the contractor is trustworthy.
How Bonding Protects You
The bond doesn’t just cover unfinished or bad work. It can also protect you in other situations. For example:
- If the contractor fails to pay for materials or building permits
- If they don’t pay their subcontractors or workers
- If they abandon the job partway through
In such situations, the surety company may either offer financial compensation or ensure the job is completed correctly. Subcontractors who don’t get paid can also file a claim against the bond. So, it’s not just homeowners who are protected—others involved in the project are too.
While surety bonds are usually used in commercial or big roofing projects, they are also very helpful for homeowners. Having a bonded roofer ensures that your money won’t go to waste, even if something goes wrong.
How Can You Tell if a Roofer Is Bonded?
To verify if your contractor is bonded, ask them for:
- Their bond certificate
- The bond number
You can then contact the bonding company to verify that the bond is valid and applicable to your project. This step is important to avoid scams or unqualified contractors. Remember, the contractor must pay a premium to get bonded—usually a small percentage of the total project cost. Some of that cost might be passed on to you, the customer. However, most homeowners find it worth the price for the extra protection.
What Else Should You Check?
In addition to being bonded, a reliable roofing contractor should also hold proper licensing and insurance. Licensing shows they meet legal standards, and insurance protects you from accidents or damage during the job. Don’t be afraid to ask for proof. A trustworthy contractor will always be happy to provide documents.
