1117 E. Louisville
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012
918-258-3595
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ACTION ROOFING & SHEET METAL
1117 E. Louisville
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012

Telephone
918-258-3595
FAX
918-258-3597

The following is from Professional Roofing Magazine:

What Makes a Roofing Contractor a PROFESSIONAL?

A lot has been said over the years about hiring a professional roofing contractor. But what is the alternative? How does a roofing customer know if the bid they choose will be completed by someone who really knows what they are doing?

The American Heritage Dictionary defines a "professional" as "a skilled practitioner; an expert;" but also as "One who earns a living in a given or implied occupation." How does one know if they are hiring an EXPERT or JUST SOMEONE WHO EARNS A LIVING in that field?

You would never ask for a "professional" doctor or attorney. The nature of those professions makes the word seem superfluous - you can't be a doctor or lawyer without being an expert. In contrast, any person who owns a company that installs roofs may be referred to as a "Professional Roofing Contractor."

The title "Professional Roofing Contractor" is not a guarantee that the contractor bidding a job is able to handle it. Instead, facility owners and managers seek a contractor who proves expertise through professional behavior.

What is professional behavior and how may it be assessed? Customers may ask the following questions to assess professional behavior:

	Education: Does the contractor maintain a current library of technical publications, such as the Uniform Building Code, ASTM standards, FM and UL guides and other publications? Is the contractor using the latest innovations and proven materials of the craft? Does the contractor and employees attend seminars and other continuing education opportunities?
	Insurance: Can the contractor provide a current certificate of insurance covering general liability, auto coverage and workers' compensation?
	Financial responsibility: Can the contractor provide a performance and payment bond in the company's own name? Can the contractor provide proof of ability to purchase materials for the project? Is the contractor approved by the manufacturer to apply the materials for the project?
	Employees: Does the contracting company use its own employees or does it use subcontractors? Does the contractor pay a fair wage and pay the appropriate payroll taxes? Does the contractor have a written safety program for its employees?

Community Relations: Is the contractor a member of any of the local civic organizations? Does the contractor belong to any trade associations? Can the contractor provide letters of reference from former customers and suppliers?

When looking at that low bid, building owners and managers should keep in mind the old adage "You get what you pay for." The least expensive bid may be right on target if offered by a quality contractor, but it will be only the beginning of unforeseen costs and headaches if the job is not done right.

Finding out the answers to these questions will help customers find a truly "professional" roofing contractor - one that exhibits professional behavior.

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