What to look for in a professional roofing contractor:

• Are they licensed? If the state government requires the contractor to have proper licensing, then if they do not carry a license they are operating illegally. If they're willing to deceive a government agency, what's to stop them from taking advantage of their customers? JTR has 2 licenses. MN LIC#20415614 WI#855969
• Do they have bonding capabilities? This assures a contractor can perform the work and complete the project, giving you piece of mind that if a problem were to arise you would be protected. Yes, JTR is bonded.
• Do they hold public liability insurance?A contractor should have $2 million general liability minimum and workers compensation on all employees. JTR has a 2 million dollar policy plus 1 million dollar blanket, above and beyond required.
• When will they start and finish? Start date will be determined by homeowner and JTR, once the downpayment is secured. Completion date is usually 2 days after the start date on roofing and 1 week on siding.(weather permitting)
• Will they provide release liens?If you do not receive a lien release at the end of the project for the materials used on your roof system you could end up paying twice for those materials. Yes, appropriate liens will be released upon receipt of final payment
• Where is the exact business location? Get this information even if they work out of their home. If anything goes wrong, you know where to find them. JTR's office is located @11200 Stillwater Blvd. Lake Elmo, MN 55042
• How many years has the contractor been in business? JTR has been in business under 1 name since 1992 And/or has the contractor changed their business name? In our research a roofing contractor needs to be in business 5 years under one name to establish a strong future. The majority of roofing contractors fail prior to 5 years for residential or 10 years for commercial.
• How long the installation/workmanship warranty will be? Warranty period? Most contractors will have exclusions that will void the warranty, READ THE FINE PRINT. JTR provides a conditional 5 year labor warranty
• The amount of down payment required? JTR requires one half down to start project in motion
• Will their equipment damage your property? If so, who is responsible? JTR is responsible for ANY damage
• Are they current members of local and national roofing association, i.e. NRCA? This shows they are taking the initiative to stay updated on current roofing information and maintaining the highest standard of education possible. JTR is an active member of the National Roofing Contractors Association. Also current GAF, Owens Corning, and Certainteed preferred/Master shingle installer.
• Insist upon a written proposal. You'll get it from a professional roofing contractor. Examine it to make sure you think it is complete and fair. Do not pay for something in full unless the work has been completed. Do not pay in full before final inspection. Do not settle for an oral agreement on any of the work to be performed. Have the contractor document all points clearly in writing. If you have a question during the job, ask the person who signed the contract. No one else may have the authority to make decisions or the knowledge to answer your questions correctly.