This what Eagle says on their web page about

Selecting A Roofing Contractor

Here are some of the basic items that you should discuss with prospective contractor's. These are the guidelines for you to select a quality roofing contractor. Be sure to see our checklist of questions that you should ask a roofing contractor.

The Starting Place Checklist:

Be sure check contractor's references!

Always ask the contractor for a copy of their state contractors license number. Most states require specific trade licenses to conduct business "legally" in the construction industry. Always verify prospective contractor's license status by checking with your local licensing board. Be sure sure the contractor is bonded and insured before starting any work. Have the contractor furnish certificates of insurance directly from the vendors. Do not accept photocopies.

Ask questions about the contractors roofing related experience. Discuss how long their firm has been in business under the same name. A contractor that has changed company names numerous times in recent years is usually hiding from creditors and or warranty problems. Companies with long standing, clean track records will usually be around if problems arise.

Has the contractor previously installed the product or materials in which you are interested? Can they provide addresses of projects wher they installed the roofing material you have selected. Verify the quality of their workmanship.

Do not accept oral promises in regards to details of your roofing project. Always insist on a clearly written, detailed estimate and contract. Materials should be listed by brand names, quality, grade, color and length of manufacturer's warranty term. If problems should arise during the roofing process, you have the documentation needed to verify and enforce your agreement with the contractor.

You should expect a minimum two-year "watertight" labor warranty from the contractor and have them provide you with the manufacturers warranty form. Most manufacturers warranties are limited to a two-year term if the warranty request was not received in the time specified on their application.

A schedule should be provided in writing when you sign your contract for both the starting and completion dates. Good contractors are always busy. Don't get stuck with a contractor that can't start your job for months, especially when you are experiencing roof leaks or have a tight construction schedule.

Never issue full payment until your roofing project is completed. If the project is large or one that requires sections and/or phases of roofing to be done, progress payments can be agreed upon in writing, when you sign your contract. Have the contractor provide labor and material releases before payments are made. Material releases should be from all suppliers involved with your project. Be certain the progress payment dollar amount being paid does not exceed the materials delivered and/or percentage of work completed. Labor and material releases are issued for your protection against additional payments or liens against your property due to the contractor not paying the workers or the material suppliers.

You should always get more than one estimate on your roofing project.

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