In Iowa, spring storms can leave behind more than puddles and fallen branches. Hail, high winds, and heavy rain often cause roof damage. Often, you can spot signs of damage from the ground. Sometimes, however, storm damage only becomes apparent during a professional roof inspection. For this reason, it’s always a good idea to reach out to a trusted local contractor after a major storm.
Before you call the first company that pops up in your search engine—or worse, begin working with the first one who shows up on your doorstep—it’s important to do a bit of research. There is a world of difference between established, local professionals and traveling storm chasers looking to extract money from your community. You can protect your home and your budget by asking these five questions before you hire a roofer.
1. Is it an established local company?
After a storm, it’s common to see contractors going door-to-door offering quick inspections or repairs. While some may be legitimate businesses that do competent work, many are not based locally and may not be around long after the work is complete, leaving you with little recourse if the job isn’t done right. For this reason, it’s smart to begin by confirming that a company has a physical address in your area and a well established reputation in the community.
It’s also important for Iowa homeowners to ensure their roofer is properly licensed, bonded, and insured for roofing work in Iowa. This includes carrying both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage to protect you from unexpected costs in the event something goes wrong during the project.
Reputation matters just as much as credentials. Look for local reviews, and ask the contractor for recent references from homeowners in your area. A reliable contractor should be able to point to completed projects nearby and testimonials from satisfied local customers. When you hire an established local contractor, you can expect accountability. Companies that are rooted in the community have a reputation to uphold, and to do that, they have to stand behind their work.
2. Do they make it easy to work with your insurance company?
If your roof was damaged in a storm, you may want to file a homeowners insurance claim to help cover your expenses. However, this process can be overwhelming, especially for homeowners who haven’t been through it before. An experienced roofing contractor will be familiar with insurance procedures and provide you with everything you need to complete each step. That includes providing detailed documentation of damage, communicating clearly with your insurance adjuster, and helping ensure that all necessary repairs are accounted for.
Clear communication is key. A reputable contractor won’t promise to “cover your deductible” (which is actually illegal) or make promises about the outcome of your claim. Instead, they’ll focus on accurate assessments and transparent conversations about what your policy may cover. A contractor who understands the insurance process can reduce the stress on you and help you get the full amount of coverage your policy entitles you to. They can also help ensure repairs are done properly the first time, since a contractor that clearly identifies the full extent of damage won’t need to cut corners to meet a more limited scope of work than the insurer may ultimately agree to.
3. Do they provide written estimates with a clear scope of work?
A trustworthy roofing contractor will always provide a detailed written estimate before any work begins. This isn’t just about price; it’s about clarity. Your estimate should outline the full scope of work, including materials, labor, timelines, and any potential additional costs. It should also specify the type of roofing system being installed, such as shingle brand, underlayment, ventilation components, and any decking that may need to be replaced.
Without clear documentation of all work that is or may be needed, it becomes difficult to compare bids or hold a contractor accountable in case something is missed. It’s always a good idea to get three bids for a roofing project. When you have them, review each estimate carefully. Often, the lowest bid isn’t actually the best value. Differences in cost can arise due to material quality, installation methods, and attention to detail. A well documented estimate can quickly reveal who is prioritizing quality and who is cutting corners.
4. What warranty do they provide on their work?
Typically, two types of warranties are involved in a roofing project: the manufacturer’s warranty and the contractor’s workmanship warranty. The manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. This ensures that the shingles or other components perform as expected under normal conditions.
The workmanship warranty, on the other hand, is provided by the contractor and covers issues related to the installation process. If improperly installed, even the best materials can fail. For this reason, a strong workmanship warranty is especially important to protect your investment. Be sure to understand how long each warranty lasts and what it includes. A reputable contractor will stand behind their work and clearly outline their warranty terms. Strong warranties reflect confidence in both materials and craftsmanship.
5. Do they pressure you to sign immediately?
One of the most common red flags when vetting roofers is high-pressure sales tactics. You may hear things like “this deal is only good today” or “we’re already working in your neighborhood, so you need to act now.” A reputable contractor won’t rush your decision. They understand that installing a new roof is a significant investment and will give you time to review your options.
Storm chasers, on the other hand, often rely on urgency to prevent homeowners from doing their research. Once the work is done, they may disappear, leaving you to deal with any problems that may arise later on your own. Take your time, ask questions, and research each company’s reputation. A trustworthy contractor will respect your process and provide the information you need to feel confident about moving forward.
Choose the Best Value, Not Just the Lowest Bid
When your roof has been damaged by a storm, it’s natural to want a quick and affordable solution. Roofing, however, is not an area where you can afford to cut corners. The company offering the cheapest bid often leaves out critical components, relies on lower quality materials, or uses a less meticulous installation process. What seems at first glance like a cost-saving option can end up costing more down the road in the form of leaks, needed repairs, or even premature roof failure.
For this reason, it’s critical to focus on long-term value. A contractor who emphasizes quality, clear communication, and strong warranties is better positioned to deliver results that last. Prioritize companies that build lasting relationships with their customers, as these are clearly invested in doing the job right. They’re the ones you can call months or years later and expect a response.
That means looking for a contractor with a proven track record, deep local roots, and a commitment to standing behind their work. Hedrick Construction has built that kind of reputation in central Iowa over the course of decades, serving homeowners in Des Moines, Ankeny, Ames, and the surrounding areas with a focus on craftsmanship, integrity, and customer care.
Comments