Should I Trust Online Reviews for Roof Repair or Replacement?

If you are in the market for roof repair or replacement, it may be tempting to rely on reviews you have read online to find a great contractor. It is true that online reviews can be helpful, but the best advice is to do more thorough research before hiring. Use the online reviews to narrow down the field of contractors, and then base your decision on all of the information available.

Evaluate Your Sources

Look for reviews from reputable websites, such as Google, Bing, or Yelp concerning roof repair companies. Be wary of reviews on a contractor's own website or social media pages, as they may be biased or selectively edited. The best source of qualified referrals is among the people you associate with regularly, including friends, relatives, and coworkers.

Paid Vs. Voluntary Reviews

Some online review sites accept payments from contractors in exchange for favorable-- and fake-- reviews. You will get better, more dependable information from voluntary reviews than from paid ones. Don't rely on a single review to make your decision. Read several reviews to get a more comprehensive understanding of the contractor's performance.

Look For Patterns

Pay attention to common themes or issues mentioned in multiple reviews. If many people mention poor communication or subpar workmanship, for example, it's likely that there is some truth to those claims. Take extreme reviews (both positive and negative) with a grain of salt. Sometimes, people will leave overly glowing reviews in exchange for incentives, or they may leave negative reviews as a result of a one-time negative experience.

View Ratings as a Group

While one or two negative reviews shouldn't necessarily disqualify a contractor, if the overall rating is consistently low, it may be a red flag. You can't make such an important decision based on a single review, but you can form a relatively reliable opinion based on the average rating of several. Online reviews can be a useful tool in your search for a roofing contractor, but they should not be the sole determining factor. Be sure to do your research, ask for references, and trust your instincts when making your decision.

The Better Business Bureau

While the BBB can be a helpful resource, it's important to note that not all contractors will be listed on their website, and some contractors may choose not to participate in the rating system. Be sure to look beyond the overall rating and read the reviews and complaints in detail. Pay attention to how the contractor responded to any complaints and whether they were resolved to the customer's satisfaction. You can also check to see if the contractor is accredited by the BBB or any other industry organizations, which can be a sign of their commitment to quality and professionalism.

Online reviews are a great source of insight and may reveal patterns of excellence in roof replacement contractors. The key is that these reviews are only one aspect involved in vetting a contractor. The final decision should be made after verifying licensing and insurance, evaluating online reviews, and speaking with the contractor personally.