We have been contacted numerous times by customers in Blackpool who have been ripped off or are worried that it may happen to them. Cowboys and rogue traders are a recurrent problem within Lancashire. It is a big shame that this is so rife within the roofing industry but we are trying to do our bit to stop our local community from becoming victims.
Here are JR roofing Lancs Limited we have put together a helpful guide on choosing a reputable roofer in Blackpool. It features some things to bear in mind and has tips to help when you need a new roof.
Get multiple Quotes
We always advise our potential customers to contact three different roofing contractors. If you have a roof leak or a roof problem that someone has tried to rectify but failed, it is worth getting a few different roofers to give their advice.
A professional roofer will be able to discuss your issue and explain the possible solutions. By speaking to a number of roofers, you will be able to compare the advice they have given as well as the written quote to resolve the issue.
Compare quotes
Roofing materials and services can vary massively. As with anything, there are different ranges of materials from basic to average to superior. The superior products have a much longer life expectancy and for that reason can be more expensive. We always recommend, if your budget allows, using the highest spec of materials to ensure maximum longevity for your new roof.
As members of NFRC CPS, we are required to upgrade the insulation in your roofspace and follow all building regulations
It is essential when comparing quotes to ensure that they are like-for-like. A professional roofer will be happy to go through your quote with you and answer any of your queries.
The cheap option isn't always the best option
We would not advise choosing a roofer because they are the cheapest. As the saying goes “Buy cheap, buy twice” and when picking a roofer it is no different.
There can be lots of variations in price due to the quality of materials and the experience of the roofing contractors. Has a quote you have received come out much cheaper than the other quotations, or maybe a lot more expensive? Raise your query with the roofer and check exactly what services you have been quoted for.
Reading previous customer reviews is a brilliant way to get insight and help you choose the right roofing contractor for you. By looking at different websites you will be able to get an overall feel for the roofer.
Before agreeing to proceed with your quotation, we would recommend searching the name and phone number of the potential roofer to check their online reputation. When checking their contact number you can see if they are known under different business names, different locations, or if they have a similar name to a more established business. These signs can be a red flag and require further exploration before choosing to go ahead with any work.
Unfortunately, it is possible for companies to purchase fake reviews. To avoid these companies we would advise checking for lots of reviews submitted around the same dates and spellings in American English.
Always say NO to cold callers
Trading standards advise never to deal with cold callers or doorstep sellers and we couldn’t agree more. A reliable roofing contractor does not have to knock on doors to find potential customers.
If you do get a cold caller offering their services or informing you that you have a roofing issue, say no. You can always get a second opinion from a reputable roofer if you are concerned about your roof.
Portfolio
A competent roofer will always be proud of their work. They will be more than happy to show you a picture of previous work or give you the address of roofs they have completed so that you can take a look for yourself.
It can sometimes be hard to picture what your new roof will look like and to be sure what colours to pick. An experienced roofer will have lots of similar roofs that they will be able to show you to help you decide.
Insurance
Be sure to ask to see the insurance policy before accepting the quote. On the insurance policy will be a section describing the type of business and the amount covered. A reputable roofer will be happy to show you their policy and give you peace of mind that you have chosen the correct roofer for the job.
We highly recommend using a roofer that accredited, JR roofing Lancs Limited have many accreditations including the Confederation of Roofing Contractors (CORC), NFRC, NFRC CPS (previously referred to as Competent Roofer), Federation of Master Builders (FMB), and Which? Trusted Traders. Always verify with the trade scheme that the contractor is genuinely a member.
These associations ensure the roofer adheres to standards and codes of conduct which form an extra layer of protection for you. As members of trade associations, we receive updates on any changes within the roofing industry and have access to technical information and resources.
Work Start
When can the work be carried out? As a rule of thumb, a good roofer will already have projects booked in and it could certainly be a concern if they can get to you at short notice. Occasionally if the job is small or particularly urgent, the contractor may be able to prioritise the work.
It is also good to remember that roofers are required to give you a 14-day cancellation period. You must give approval for a contractor to start work before the cancellation period has ended.