Why You Shouldn’t Pay a Roofer Upfront

Looking for a roofing contractor requires a lot of footwork, from conducting interviews to doing your due diligence by verifying their credentials. In the midst of all these, understanding the terms in the contract before applying your signature can save you from a lot of trouble down the line. The payment terms, in particular, bear close scrutiny. In today’s post, Timberland Exteriors takes a look at how contractors should be paid — and why you shouldn’t pay your roofer upfront.

Avoid Roofers Who Ask for the Full Payment Upfront

Setting aside the fact that upfront payments are not a standard industry practice, paying a contractor the full amount before the project begins poses a number of risks. One is that an unscrupulous “contractor” can take the money and run with it. Another is that the contractor may end up botching the job. Since they already have the full payment on hand, they won’t be as enthusiastic correcting their work. They may even leave the job unfinished.

The bottom line is, just avoid contractors who ask for the full payment upfront. They may employ tactics like giving you free items or an “exclusive discount” if you sign immediately. Don’t fall for these — keep in mind that your roof will be on your home for the next 20, even 50 years. You’ll want to get it right the first time, with the right contractor.

The Right Way To Pay Your Contractor

Reputable contractors will ask for a deposit or downpayment, which should be about a third of the contract price and is usually due upon signing the contract. The payment plan should be clearly indicated in the contract — look for this section before you put ink to paper. The contractor will use the deposit to order the materials and make arrangements for logistics-related matters.

Further installments are due at later stages. Some contractors may require another third of the project cost once the project is underway. Others may further divide it into smaller payments upon reaching milestones like after removing the old roof, or after installing the framing. The final installment is typically due after the roof is completed, and is your leverage in case it’s not up to spec or if it wasn’t completed to your satisfaction.

Learn more about the roofing process with a free, no-obligation estimate from Timberland Exteriors. Give us a call at (218) 849-6675, or fill out our contact form. We serve Detroit Lakes, MN, and the surrounding communities in Minnesota.