How to Research a Contractor Before You Hire Them

Hiring a contractor is a big decision. Whether you're replacing your roof, updating your siding, installing new windows, or repairing storm damage, the company you choose can make all the difference in the quality of the work and your overall experience.

With so many contractors competing for your business, it can be difficult to know who to trust. While flashy advertisements and aggressive sales tactics may grab attention, a little research can help you separate established professionals from companies that may not have the experience or credentials to back up their promises.

Here are a few things every homeowner should check before hiring a contractor.

1. Look at Reviews and Reputation

Online reviews can provide valuable insight into a contractor's workmanship, communication, and customer service.

Pay attention to:

• The number of reviews
• Overall ratings
• How the company responds to concerns
• Consistency of positive customer experiences

A strong reputation isn't built overnight. Companies with years of positive reviews have demonstrated their commitment to customer satisfaction over time.

At Precise Exteriors, we're proud to have earned the trust of homeowners throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin through quality workmanship, honest communication, and dependable service.

2. Check How Long They've Been in Business

Experience matters.

A company that has been serving homeowners for years has a proven track record, established processes, and the stability to stand behind its work.

You can often verify a company's history through your state's Secretary of State website. This simple step can help you determine whether a contractor has been operating for years or was only recently established.

When you're making a significant investment in your home, working with an experienced contractor provides peace of mind that newer companies simply cannot offer.

3. Verify Licenses and Insurance

Any reputable contractor should be willing to provide proof of licensing and insurance.

Proper insurance protects both you and the contractor if something unexpected happens during your project. If a company hesitates to provide this information, consider it a red flag.

Always ask questions and make sure you're comfortable with the answers before signing a contract.

4. Look for Industry Certifications

Not all contractors have the same level of training or manufacturer support.

Industry certifications often indicate a higher level of expertise and commitment to quality.

Precise Exteriors is proud to be a GAF Master Elite® Contractor, a distinction earned by only a small percentage of roofing contractors nationwide. This certification reflects our commitment to ongoing training, quality installation practices, and exceptional customer service.

We are also an LP® SmartSide® ExpertFinish® Expert, giving homeowners confidence that their siding project is being completed by a contractor with specialized product knowledge and installation expertise.

These certifications aren't handed out to just anyone—they're earned through demonstrated excellence.

5. Ask Where Their Business Comes From

One of the best indicators of a contractor's reputation is how they generate new business.

Do they rely on satisfied customers, referrals, and repeat business? Or do they depend primarily on high-pressure sales tactics?

At Precise Exteriors, referrals have always been one of our greatest sources of new business. We believe that the best marketing comes from homeowners who are happy with the work we've completed and are willing to recommend us to family, friends, and neighbors.

That trust means everything to us.

Choose Confidence, Not Just a Contractor

Before hiring any contractor, take the time to do your research. Check reviews, verify credentials, confirm insurance, and look at the company's history and certifications.

Your home deserves more than a sales pitch—it deserves proven experience, trusted craftsmanship, and a contractor who will be there long after the project is complete.

At Precise Exteriors, we're proud of the reputation we've built, the certifications we've earned, and the homeowners who continue to recommend us year after year.

If you're planning a roofing, siding, window, or exterior remodeling project, we'd be happy to answer your questions and show you why so many homeowners trust Precise Exteriors.