Quoting isn’t easy, a lot of factors need to be considered, and for complex works like a roof restoration or renovation, the estimator often is a highly skilled and licenced team member. They need to be aware of building codes and standards and be able to recognise different materials in each appointment they attend to quote. However, when looking at works like a roof restoration, it’s easy to understand why a homeowner would opt for the most cost effective option available to them. This is why you, as the homeowner, should take time to consider the other quotes and not simply select the cheapest quote.
There have been a number of times our estimator has arrived to quote a project only to find the previous work wasn’t completed to the appropriate standard. This is particularly dangerous when it comes to roof structures. We have talked many times about the pitfalls of damage or improper maintenance of roofing systems, so you can imagine how extensive those issues can be when the roof components were installed cheaply and not to code. Not only do you risk further damage to your property, you risk double or triple the cost of the initial works to fix the problem.
Common Mistakes
Whilst the cheapest quote may end with the works being of standard and perfectly acceptable, always compare the scope of works for each quote to see what the contractor is and isn’t including. So many homeowners get stuck on the bottom line and forget to check the actual included works. We have fixed a few of these works ourselves for heartbroken owners who have now paid twice for the same works.
Do your research on the contractors, and the items within their quotes. Check they have appropriate licences and insurances or if they are a member of an industry body. Often these are first indicators as to the standard of works. Once you have completed these searches, start looking for reviews on the services, if there are no reviews anywhere, the contractor may have something to hide. Think about insurances as well; if the contractor isn’t able to produce evidence of insurance, they should not be able to quote for your works.
CASH. Walk away if the contract wants to deal exclusively in cash. Cash isn’t traceable in the way a proper invoice and payment is. The same rule applies if there is no formal contract between you and the contractor listing each party’s responsibilities, rights and remedies.
Check if the certifier and building approvals are included in your quotes. This may be the difference between your contractors. Shadier contractors will leave this out of their scope of works which leaves the work to you, and that’s an expensive issue to find once the works are done.
Avoiding the Risk
The easiest way to avoid this risk is to engage multiple reputable contractors for quoting and making sure you do your research first. Ensure the quotes are full and complete, the contractors are licenced and use reputable products. Don’t just choose the cheapest option, as it may cost you thousands more in the long run.
Sometimes a roof cannot be restored, and your money would be better used replacing the COLORBOND® roof on your home. GT Roofing Adelaide specialises in roofing restoration, replacements, repairs and extensions and works with COLORBOND® Steel and BlueScope Steel throughout the Adelaide area and across South Australia. For an obligation free chat, please call George on 0434 640 550 or complete our contact form and we will get in touch shortly.