What to Look For in a Commercial Roofing Company (5 Tips)

Finding the right commercial roofing company is crucial for property managers. Whether you’re addressing minor repairs, replacing an entire roof, or undergoing preventative roofing maintenance, the quality of your roofing partner can significantly impact your property’s value and operational efficiency. To help you make the right decision, we’ve created this guide. Here’s an overview of what we’ll cover:

• Signs you need commercial roofing services
• 5 tips to find a reliable roofing company
• Ways to care for your commercial roof

👉 Signs You Need Commercial Roofing Services

Addressing these issues with a professional roofing company can help prevent costly repairs down the line.

• Visible water leaks or stains on ceilings, indicating underlying damage
• Sagging roof materials or pooling water, revealing drainage or structural issues
• Increasing energy costs, potentially caused by poor insulation or ventilation
• Damaged or missing shingles, cracks, or general wear and tear
• Noticeable damage after severe weather

👨‍🔧 5 Tips to Find a Reliable Commercial Roofing Company

Finding a reliable commercial roofing company is crucial to ensure quality work, long-lasting results, and protection for your property. Choosing the right professionals can save you time, money, and headaches down the line.

1. Verify Licensing, Insurance, and Certifications

The first and most critical step in selecting a reliable commercial roofing company is verifying their licensing, insurance, and certifications. These qualifications are essential to ensure the contractor is legally permitted to work in your area and has the expertise to deliver high-quality results.

Why Does It Matter?

A valid license confirms that the contractor meets industry standards and adheres to local building codes, which is crucial for the safety and compliance of the project. Insurance protects you from potential liability in case of accidents or property damage during the job. Without proper insurance, you might be held responsible for unexpected costs if something goes wrong. Certifications from professional organizations, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) or a manufacturer’s endorsement, demonstrate the contractor’s commitment to excellence, ongoing training, and use of best practices.

What to Look For:

• Licensing: Ensure the company’s license is up-to-date and valid for your region. Different states or municipalities may have specific requirements for roofing contractors.
• Insurance: Ask for proof of both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This guarantees you won’t be financially liable for any accidents or injuries on-site.
• Certifications: Look for additional credentials from reputable industry associations. These certifications often indicate advanced training and specialization in specific roofing systems or materials.

Pro Tip:

Don’t just take their word for it—ask your contractor for physical copies or digital verification of their license, insurance policies, and certifications before any work begins. A reputable contractor will gladly provide this documentation without hesitation. Take it one step further by contacting the licensing board or insurance company to confirm the validity of the documents. Doing your due diligence upfront can save you from costly mistakes later.

Taking the time to verify these qualifications ensures you’re working with a professional, trustworthy company that prioritizes safety, quality, and compliance.

2. Evaluate Experience with Commercial Roofing Systems

Experience matters—especially when it comes to the complexities of commercial roofing systems like EPDM, TPO, and metal roofing. Commercial roofing projects often require specialized knowledge and skills that go beyond what’s needed for standard residential roofs. A company that has extensive experience with commercial projects will be better prepared to handle unique challenges, such as flat roof drainage issues, membrane installation, or material-specific repairs. By choosing a contractor with a proven track record in commercial roofing, you can ensure your investment is in capable hands.

Common Commercial Roofing Systems:

• TPO/EPDM Roofing: These systems are highly popular for their energy efficiency, durability, and resistance to UV rays, making them an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious businesses.
• Metal Roofing: Known for its longevity and low maintenance, metal roofing provides a strong and reliable solution, especially for buildings in areas prone to extreme weather conditions.
• Modified Bitumen: Ideal for buildings that need heavy-duty weather protection, modified bitumen offers excellent durability and flexibility, making it a great choice for high-traffic roofs or extreme environments.

Why Experience is Key:

Each commercial roofing system has its own set of installation techniques and maintenance requirements. An inexperienced contractor may overlook critical details, leading to costly repairs or replacements down the line. For example, improper drainage on a flat roof can cause water pooling, while incorrectly installed flashing on a metal roof can lead to leaks. A skilled contractor will know how to address these issues proactively, ensuring your roof is built to last.

Ask Questions:

When selecting a roofing company, take the time to vet their experience and expertise. Here are some important questions to ask:

• How long have they been working on commercial roofs? Longevity in the industry is often a sign of reliability and quality work.
• Do they have specific experience with your roofing type? For example, if you need TPO roofing, make sure they’ve successfully completed similar projects.
• Can they provide examples of completed projects? A reputable company should have a portfolio of past work or references you can contact to verify their quality.

By thoroughly evaluating their experience with commercial roofing systems, you’ll be better equipped to find a contractor that can meet your building’s unique needs while delivering durable and high-quality results.

3. Ensure Clear Communication and Transparency

A great commercial roofing company isn’t just about strong workmanship—it’s also about clear and consistent communication. Effective communication ensures that you, as the client, are informed and confident during every stage of the project, preventing misunderstandings and unnecessary delays. From the initial inspection to the final stages of project completion, transparency is the foundation for building trust and maintaining a smooth working relationship.

What to Look For:

• Detailed Written Estimates: A reliable roofing company should provide a detailed and itemized estimate, outlining the scope of work, materials, costs, and timelines. This prevents surprises and helps you plan your budget effectively.
• Regular Project Updates: Ongoing updates keep you informed about the progress of the project, any potential challenges, and how they are being addressed. Consistent communication keeps all parties aligned and avoids last-minute issues.
• Willingness to Explain: A trustworthy company won’t hesitate to walk you through their inspection reports, explain their recommendations, and answer your questions. They should ensure you fully understand the work being performed and why it’s necessary.

Clear communication doesn’t just minimize surprises—it also builds confidence and ensures the process is as stress-free as possible. For instance, at Builders & Management Plus, we prioritize prompt and proactive communication at every step, ensuring all stakeholders stay on the same page from start to finish. Transparency and openness create a smoother experience and improve overall project efficiency, making it easier for clients to focus on their priorities while the roofing experts handle the rest.

4. Look for Competitive Warranties

When choosing a commercial roofing contractor, warranties are a key sign of their confidence in the quality of their work and materials. A reliable company should stand firmly behind their services by offering clear, comprehensive warranties that protect you from potential issues down the line.

Why Warranties Matter:

Roofing warranties are more than just a piece of paper—they’re your safety net. They ensure that if something goes wrong, whether due to poor installation or defective materials, you won’t be left footing the bill. A strong warranty shows a contractor’s commitment to delivering lasting results and their trust in the workmanship and materials they use.

Types of Warranties to Consider:

• Workmanship Warranties: These cover errors made during installation. Even high-quality materials can fail if they aren’t installed correctly, which is why this type of warranty is crucial.
• Manufacturer Warranties: These protect against material defects or failures, ensuring the roofing products themselves perform as promised.

What to Watch Out For:

Not all warranties are created equal. Be cautious of fine print with exclusions, as some warranties come with long lists of exclusions that severely limit their coverage. Always read the details to understand what’s truly protected. Also, be wary of reluctance to provide documentation. A reputable contractor should have no problem providing warranty documentation upfront, so hesitation here can be a red flag.

Additional Tips for Evaluating Warranties:

• Ask how long the warranty is valid and what specific scenarios are covered.
• Check if the warranty is transferable to a new owner if you plan to sell the property.
• Look for contractors who go beyond the industry standard. For example, while many companies offer 1- or 2-year workmanship warranties, some, like Builders & Management Plus, provide extended protection with their 5-Year Workmanship Warranty.

5. Read Reviews and Request References

When searching for a reliable roofing company, doing your homework on their reputation is crucial. One of the easiest ways to gauge a company’s credibility is to read online reviews. Platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) provide honest feedback from previous clients, offering insights into customer satisfaction and the company’s ability to deliver quality work. Look for consistent patterns in the reviews—whether it’s frequent praise for their professionalism or recurring complaints about delays or poor communication.

Why Reviews Matter

Online reviews act as a window into the company’s track record. A company with numerous positive reviews and a high rating is more likely to provide a satisfactory experience. However, don’t just look at the overall rating—read through individual reviews to understand specific strengths and weaknesses. Pay attention to how the company responds to negative feedback. A professional response shows a commitment to customer service and a willingness to address concerns.

Requesting References

In addition to reading reviews, ask the contractor for references, particularly from clients who had similar needs, such as a commercial roofing project or a residential roof repair. Speaking to past customers allows you to get a firsthand account of their experience working with the company. Most reputable contractors are happy to provide references because it demonstrates their confidence in their work.

Steps to Evaluate Reputation

• Start by scanning review platforms like Google or BBB for overall ratings and detailed comments.
• Look for patterns in the feedback—consistent praise for reliability and quality is a green flag, while repeated complaints should raise concerns.
• Ask the contractor for contact information for past clients, ideally from projects like yours.
• Contact those references and ask targeted questions to assess the company’s performance.

Example Questions to Ask References:

• Was the project completed on time and within the agreed budget?
• How would you rate the professionalism and communication of the team?
• Were there any unexpected issues, and if so, how were they resolved?
• Did the contractor keep you informed throughout the project?
• Would you hire the roofing company again for future projects?

🏢 Ways to Care for Your Commercial Roof

Proper maintenance of a commercial roof is essential to ensure its longevity, performance, and ability to protect your building. Neglecting your roof can lead to costly repairs, interruptions to your business, and even safety hazards. Here are key ways to care for your roof and keep it in top condition:

Schedule Regular Inspections

Regular inspections are a vital first step in maintaining your commercial roof. Hire a professional roofing contractor to inspect your roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, and after major weather events like storms, heavy rain, or hail. These inspections can help identify issues such as leaks, cracks, missing materials, or pooling water before they become severe problems. Scheduling inspections proactively allows you to address small problems early, saving time and money in the long run.

Keep the Roof Clean

A clean roof is a healthy roof. Removing debris such as leaves, branches, and trash prevents blockages in drainage systems and reduces the risk of mold, algae, or moss growth. Over time, accumulated debris can also weigh on the roof structure, causing unnecessary strain and potential damage. Regular cleaning not only improves the roof’s appearance but also helps it function efficiently. Consider setting up a maintenance routine to remove debris, especially after storms or during autumn when leaves accumulate quickly.

Maintain Drainage Systems

Proper drainage is critical to preventing water damage on a commercial roof. Ensure that gutters, drains, downspouts, and scuppers are free of blockages that could cause water pooling. Standing water can increase the risk of leaks, weaken roofing materials, and lead to structural damage if left unchecked. Regularly clearing drainage systems of dirt, sludge, or leaves ensures that rainwater flows away from the roof properly. You might also consider installing gutter guards or strainers to help minimize clogs.

Address Repairs Promptly

Ignoring minor damage can lead to major problems over time. Small issues like loose flashing, punctures, cracks, or damaged seals may seem insignificant but can escalate into costly repairs or even require a full roof replacement if left untreated. Promptly addressing repairs ensures that your roof remains watertight and protects your building from the elements. Always hire professional roofers for repairs to ensure the job is done correctly and avoid voiding any warranties on your roof.

Invest in Roof Coatings

Roof coatings are an excellent investment for extending the lifespan of your commercial roof. Protective coatings act as a barrier against harsh UV rays, extreme weather, and chemicals, all of which can degrade roofing materials over time. Reflective coatings, in particular, can help reduce heat absorption, lowering your building’s cooling costs. Additionally, coatings can seal small cracks or leaks, providing an added layer of protection against future damage. Consult a roofing professional to choose the right coating for your roof type and climate.

Monitor HVAC Units and Equipment

Many commercial roofs have HVAC systems or other heavy equipment mounted on them. While these are essential for building operations, they can inadvertently cause wear and tear on the roofing material. Regularly inspect HVAC units, vents, and other equipment for leaks, vibrations, or loose parts that could damage the roof. Ensure that all equipment is securely mounted and that technicians servicing the equipment take care to avoid damaging the roof surface during maintenance or repairs.

🙌 Protect Your Business with Expert Commercial Roofing Solutions

At Builders & Management Plus, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service for all your commercial roofing needs. Our team is highly experienced, certified, and dedicated to ensuring every project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest safety standards. We understand the importance of a reliable roof for your business, and we approach each project with professionalism and transparency. Trust us to provide expert guidance, top-tier materials, and solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Contact Builders & Management Plus today for a free consultation and see why so many businesses rely on us to protect their investments.