7 things to look out for
Unfortunately, the roofing industry has its share of amateur and unscrupulous contractors who may quote cheaply, but then cut corners by fixing only the areas you can see or using materials of inferior quality. They rely on the fact that you won’t be climbing on the roof yourself to inspect the job. But the poor quality of their work will soon begin to show: paint will peel, or your roof may begin to leak; poorly attached roof tiles will eventually slide off, damaging the gutters or leading to structural damage. The too-good-to-be-true price you paid could end up costing you thousands.
But there are ways you can avoid choosing the wrong contractor. Here is a list of what to look out for when hiring a Roof Restoration company in Melbourne:
1. Avoid roofing companies that employ salespeople or that door-knock in an effort to get your business. These salespeople work on commission and their only aim is to sign up as many people as possible. They often use hard-sell tactics, pressuring you to sign up immediately without explaining in detail the work required or your options, or giving you time to obtain other quotes or research their business. If you are feeling pressured in any way, shut the door!
- Vertex Roofing does not engage salespeople.
Much of our work comes via the recommendations of satisfied clients and builders with whom we have long-standing relationships. We never pressure you to sign with us. As a business that has been around for nearly two decades, we know it makes much better business sense in the long-run to give you all the information you need to feel confident you’re making an informed choice. We understand you need time to make this important decision.
2. Look for the danger signs of unscrupulous salespeople: quoting a high price and then offering a “discount” if you sign up today, or “calling the boss” to supposedly get you a better price – but only if you put down a (large) deposit today! Asking for a down payment for materials is a sure sign of a business lacking in resources. They may also try to up-sell, encouraging you to sign up for more work than is really needed, so you end up paying far more than necessary.
- Vertex Roofing does not ask for a deposit.
You pay only when the work is completed. We are able to offer very competitive prices because of the efficiency of our skilled team, our extensive industry contacts and our buying power. Our quotes are based on the work your roof genuinely needs to keep your home protected and looking beautiful for many years to come.
3. Check that the people quoting the job are fully qualified. The salespeople employed by some roofing companies have little or no roofing experience or qualifications. They lack an understanding of what your job may require, and any quote they provide will probably be inaccurate. When the work begins, they are likely to “discover” all sorts of other expensive issues, and the costs begin to climb.
- At Vertex Roofing only certified roof tilers do quotes.
The Vertex team member who assesses and quotes for your job is a roofing specialist with years of experience, and part of the team who will do the work. They will determine exactly what work is needed and will explain everything thoroughly, giving you all the options and answering any questions you have. Our aim is to ensure the best and most economical outcome for you.
4. Check that the people doing the work are fully qualified. Some roofing companies cut costs by employing inexperienced or unqualified sub-contractors. They have no incentive to do quality work, as they won’t be around to take responsibility. They may repair only the sections you can see, or simply patch over problems using substandard materials and incorrect methods. Unfortunately, it won’t take long for unskilled workmanship and the use of poor quality mortar, pointing mix and paint to show.
- Vertex Roofing does not engage sub-contractors.
The tradespeople on your job are all part of Vertex Roofing’s skilled team. Every roofer on the team is fully qualified, with a minimum of a Certificate III in roof tiling. As a family-owned business, every member of our team is invested in doing the best job possible. We use quality materials and we repair even the bits you can’t see. We take great pride in knowing our workmanship will stand the test of time.
5. Ask to see the contractor’s Registered Building Practitioner card, and ensure it states the job categories they are authorised to carry out. In Victoria, building tradespersons must register with the Victorian Building Commission (VBA). According to VBA regulations, a Registered Building Practitioner must carry out any building work and renovations valued at over $5,000. Make sure they provide a warranty and certification of work completed.
- Vertex Roofing is a fully licensed roofing business. Owner Justin Carusi is a Registered Building Practitioner with the Victorian Building Authority, registered to carry out all types of roof and roof repair work. We offer a 10-year warranty on our materials and workmanship and provide a certificate of compliance for insurance purposes.
6. Check the contractor is fully insured, with public liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Without the right insurance, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property.
- Vertex Roofing is fully insured, including public liability and workers’ compensation. We are fully compliant with all Occupational Health and Safety regulations and relevant Codes of Practice developed by WorkSafe Victoria.
7. Look at customer reviews and testimonials and ask to see examples of previous work completed (not just photos that may or may not be of their actual work!).
- At Vertex Roofing we’re happy to show off the beautiful roofs we have created or restored. We will make sure you have options to view in person that are similar to the work you require. And you can read our client testimonials here.
