Typical shingle roofs need to be replaced every 12 to 20 years, so if you’re a homeowner, you’ll likely need the services of a residential roofing contractor at least two or three times. A shoddy job can result in expensive repairs or severely lower the lifespan of your roof. To avoid the hassle, here are some tips to choose the best roofing contractor to get the job done right the first time.

How to Get a Great Roofing Contractor

1. Check That They’re Insured

The construction job is a dangerous one that carries great risk. If a roofing company does not offer insurance and workers’ compensation, and an employee gets injured at your home, they can sue you for damages. General liability insurance protects you, your family, and your property in case of an accident. Moreover, an insured company demonstrates professionalism and legitimacy.

2. Go Local

If you have a roofing company in who has been established in your town for years, they’re worth checking out. Bad roofers don’t last long, especially in small communities. Find out what projects they’ve done and see them for yourself, or ask homeowners who have used their services about their experience. If you like what you see and the recommendations are good, reach out for an estimate.

3. Don’t Choose the Cheapest

While you should be wary of unusually high estimates, the best roofing contractor will not be the cheapest. Roofing is an easy job to get into—all you need is a ladder, a hammer, and some shingles—and the non-professionals undercut established businesses with attractive pricing. However, a lack of insurance and poor workmanship will cost more in the long run if you need to make repairs—or worse, are liable for an employee’s injury. When done right, your new roof should be beautiful and evenly-trimmed, and shouldn’t need a replacement for at least another decade.

If you seek the best roofing contractors, Bulldog Contractors in Lakeville, MN; Centennial, CO; and Plano, TX offer 100 years of combined experience and community involvement. They care about your home and are passionate about getting the job done perfectly. For a free estimate, call (800) 888-2855 for their Lakeville location, (303) 991-2487 for their Centennial location, or (210) 900-2002 for their Plano location. You can also visit their website for more information about their services.