When facing complex projects, condo boards must consider more than simply choosing the lowest bid.
Replacing the roof of a large shared property with multiple stakeholders is a major project that requires board members to make critical decisions. Choosing a roofing contractor is more involved than comparing estimates. The board must consider the property’s long-term needs, evaluate contractors, and review costs.
When selecting a contractor, the board should consider the company’s experience on similar projects, its local track record, and organizational capability.
They should also determine if a roofing company is equipped and able to do the project.
Looking Beyond the Bid When Choosing a Roofing Contractor
Condo associations should research the roofing contractors carefully, ensuring that they have completed similar projects in size and complexity in the area. Not every roof replacement is the same, requiring contractors to understand a project’s specific roofing system. A roofing contractor should have experience with both large sloped and flat roofing projects, as many condos require either or both flat and sloped roofing needs.
Customer reviews and past clients’ referrals can give insight into their overall experience. Consider how the contractor communicates and their professionalism on the job.
Associations should also check into the contractor’s qualifications, licensing, and applicable certifications.
New Roofs, Inc. highlights its experience with both commercial and residential projects. The company provides prospective clients with examples of completed work.
Involve a Roofer Early in the Decision-Making Process
A condo association should bring in a roofing contractor early in the planning process, and the contractor should stay involved throughout the project. If the association decides on a rehabilitation plan before consulting a roofing contractor, it may later discover that the proposed work is not feasible, causing delays.
A roofing contractor involved early can assess the current roof’s condition, determine whether a replacement is necessary, and identify the right system for the property. A condo association shouldn’t commit to a major decision before it understands the project’s scope and what it entails.
A roofing contractor like New Roofs, Inc. can also be consulted during the property-purchasing process to inspect and assess the existing roof before a prospective owner decides whether to proceed.
When choosing a contractor for a major project, condo associations need to look beyond the lowest estimate. Though choosing the lowest bid is tempting, it may not be in the best interest of the stakeholders. By seeking out early professional input, condo associations can make informed decisions on the project.
A Relationship-Focused Approach
New Roofs, Inc. was founded by roofing contractor and entrepreneur Josh Shaw. Drawing on his commercial roofing experience, Shaw says he built the company around growth, relationships, and customer experience.
Asked why he started the company, Shaw says he was inspired to “help other people along with the vision of creating something bigger than yourself; not by yourself but with a team around you.”
According to New Roofs, Inc., its approach to roof replacement and repair emphasizes client relationships and customer experience.
“We are a small, younger team focused on growth and customer experience. Our business is not commission-based, operating on a set margin, and customer experience is our key differentiator,” Shaw says.
That emphasis on teamwork and relationships is particularly relevant to condo associations, where roofing decisions may involve board members, property managers, residents, contractors, and other stakeholders. Maintaining clear communication among these parties can help the association understand the project’s scope, address concerns, and make decisions as work progresses.
Shaw’s vision aligns with the broader importance of treating a roofing contractor as a long-term project partner rather than simply a vendor selected to complete a single job. By involving the contractor early and maintaining the relationship throughout inspection, planning, and construction, condo associations can approach major roofing projects with clearer expectations and greater continuity.
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