Some roofers choose door-to-door sales as one of their marketing tactics. They’re either very old school or storm chasing—so it’s best to be wary when a roofing sales door-knocker comes to your home. We believe the best way to vet one of these salespeople is by using the 5 Ls.
If you answer your front door to a roofing salesperson, ask yourself these five questions.
Are They Local?
Don’t automatically assume that if a roofing salesperson is knocking on your door in your neighborhood, that they are local. Ask where they’re from and ask for a business card. If they are from a city far from where you are, or even from another state (it happens), they may just be swooping in after a big storm to steal business away from other local companies.
Are They Licensed?
The state of Minnesota requires any contractor making more than $15,000 in revenue to obtain a state license. Some states do not require one, so if they cannot provide proof of a license, they are either a very small operation or are from out of state. Make sure any contractor you hire has a license and the proper certifications so you can rest assured.
How Long Have They Been in Business?
Ask how long that person has been in business or how long they’ve been with their contracting company? Years of experience can be the difference between a good and a bad roof installment. Someone who hasn’t been with a company very long could also be someone who bounces around a lot or is a subcontractor that is hired out with a company.
Are They Legitimate?
Are they a legitimate employee of the company they are representing? Or are they a subcontractor? Watch out for solo door-knockers who may have the experience, but not the company or proper regulations to back their work. You don’t want to unknowingly hire an illegitimate contractor for your home’s roof project.
Are They a Leech?
You don’t want to work with a leech—they are storm chasing bottom feeders who are just there to make a quick buck. We don’t like leeches infiltrating our industry, so watch out for them!
So, if you can remember the 5 Ls, you can safely vet a roofer salesperson coming to your door. Keep in mind; there are plenty of contractors who go door-to-door, who are very trustworthy, local, and legitimate. So don’t immediately dismiss them if they can answer these five questions. But, if you want to go right to the source for your roofing and siding projects, call Northface Construction today at 763.433.2269.