Choosing a roofer for your large commercial project is no small task. With thousands of dollars on the line and the building’s integrity at stake, the wrong decision can lead to serious setbacks, delays, safety risks, or costly repairs down the road.
If you’ve ever typed ‘roofing contractors near me’ into a search bar, you know how overwhelming the results can be. So, how do you find the right one? In this blog, we’ll walk you through 7 expert tips to make sure you choose a reliable contractor who can handle your commercial roofing needs from start to finish.
1. Know What Your Commercial Roofing Project Involves
Commercial roofing is a whole different ball game compared to residential jobs. While residential roofing contractors are great for homes, big commercial projects need more than just basic know-how—they require the right crew, tools, and experience.
Before choosing a contractor, check if they’ve handled similar projects like shopping malls, warehouses, or tall office buildings. It’s important to see proof that they can manage the size and complexity of commercial work, not just home roofing.
2. Search for Licensed and Insured ‘Roofing Contractors Near Me’
When browsing for ‘roofing contractors near me’, don’t just go with the first name that pops up. Make sure they’re properly licensed, certified, and fully insured. This protects you from unexpected legal or financial issues down the road.
Look for companies with Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) coverage and liability insurance. You can even double-check their credentials through local organizations like the Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia (RCABC). And if they’re listed with trusted industry groups, that’s a big plus.
3. Choose a Contractor with Experience in Both Commercial and Residential Roofing
Contractors who’ve worked on both types of projects—commercial and residential—tend to be more adaptable. Their background as a residential roofing company means they’ve handled a variety of materials and roof designs, which can be really helpful on complex commercial sites.
These kinds of professionals understand the challenges that come with each job type, from flat roofs to steep pitches, and even how to deal with Vancouver’s ever-changing weather. So when looking for quality roofers, it’s smart to pick someone with a well-rounded resume in both commercial and roofing in Vancouver.
4. Look at Reviews and Past Work
Before you hire anyone, take some time to read through their reviews—not just the ratings, but the actual comments. You’ll learn a lot about how the contractor works. Did they show up on time? Did they clean up after the job? Were there any unexpected delays or surprises?
To find quality roofers, ask to see photos of their past projects. Even better if they can give you names of people they’ve worked with before. You can also check trusted sites like the Better Business Bureau or TrustedPros for honest reviews.
When you’re scrolling through search results for ‘roofing contractors near me’, real feedback from past clients can help you spot the ones who actually do what they say—and weed out the ones who don’t.
5. Make Sure They Take Safety Seriously
Big roofing jobs—especially commercial ones—can be risky. That’s why safety isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must. The contractor should follow local rules, have safety procedures in place, and keep their crew trained and up to date.
Look for companies that follow guidelines from trusted groups like the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). Not only does this keep workers safe, but it also helps avoid delays and problems on the job.
The good ones—like experienced ‘roofing contractors near me’—won’t think twice about showing you their safety plans and certifications. That kind of transparency is a good sign.
6. Ask About Materials and Warranties
Not all roofing materials are created equal. Some might be cheaper, but they wear out faster, especially in a rainy city like Vancouver. That’s why material quality really matters.
If you’re getting a flat roof or a sloped one with shingles or metal, ask your contractor what they use and why. A trustworthy residential roofing company or residential roofing contractor will walk you through your options without pushing you into something just because it’s easier for them.
In a place like Vancouver, where it rains a lot, you need materials that can hold up to the weather. A good roofer will explain what lasts and what doesn’t—and they’ll offer solid warranties to back it up.
Reliable ‘roofing contractors near me’ will take the time to explain things clearly, not just hand you a quote and disappear. If you’ve ever wondered why some roofs fall apart too soon, it usually comes down to two things: cheap materials and poor installation. Here are 7 important factors that cause commercial roofing to wear out too soon—understanding them can help you ask the right questions during contractor interviews.
7. Don’t Just Go for the Cheapest Estimate
We get it—when the quotes start coming in, it’s tempting to go with the lowest one. But a cheap price can sometimes mean cheap work. You might end up with subpar materials, rushed labor, or no follow-up if things go wrong.
When you’re reaching out to ‘roofing contractors near me’, don’t just ask, “How much?” Ask what’s actually included:
- Will they take care of removing and hauling away the old roof?
- Are they bringing proper safety gear, and is their crew insured?
- Is there a solid timeline? What happens if they go over it?
Sure, quality roofers might not offer the lowest price—but they often save you money (and headaches) in the long run by doing things right the first time.
Final Thoughts: Choose with Confidence
Picking the right contractor isn’t about who gives you the flashiest brochure or the cheapest quote. It’s about who’s reliable, clear, and experienced.So next time you type in ‘roofing contractors near me’, take a few extra minutes to compare properly. A good residential roofing contractor or residential roofing company isn’t just fixing your roof—they’re helping protect your home. And if you’re doing roofing in Vancouver, it’s worth finding someone who knows the local weather and building codes like the back of their hand.
