1. Check the city’s website to make sure contractors are registered with the city and have permits. For roofers, check trade groups such as Roofing Contractors of America to verify membership.
2. Ask for references to make sure a contractor is insured. (Licensed and bonded is always the way to go!)
3. Get two to three pricing estimates from different contractors. Make sure these include pricing, materials and labor.
4. Make sure the deal, including start and end dates for their work, is in writing.
5. Never pay in full before the job is done. (Usually, it's 20/20/60)
(KSAT)