After a storm or when a roof finally gives out, homeowners in NJ often get hit with a flood of door-knockers, flyers, and out-of-state “storm chasers” offering rock-bottom prices. Some are fine. Many aren’t. Here’s how to cut through it and hire someone you won’t regret.
1. Verify Their NJ HIC License
In New Jersey, any contractor doing home improvement work over $500 must be registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC). This isn’t optional. You can verify any contractor’s license at the NJ Consumer Affairs website.
Herts Roofing NJ HIC#: 13VH11388400. Ask for it. A legitimate contractor won’t hesitate.
2. Check Insurance — Both Types
You want to see two certificates:
- General Liability Insurance — covers damage to your property if something goes wrong
- Workers’ Compensation — covers workers if they get injured on your roof
If a worker falls without workers’ comp, the claim can come back to your homeowner’s insurance. Don’t skip this step.
3. Look for Manufacturer Certifications
Owens Corning Preferred Contractors and CertainTeed ShingleMaster contractors have been vetted and trained by the manufacturer. It also means they can offer better warranty coverage — including workmanship warranties backed by the manufacturer, not just the contractor.
4. Get At Least 3 Written Estimates
Not verbal — written, itemized estimates. If a contractor won’t give you a written breakdown, walk away. The estimate should include: materials (brand and product line), labor, tear-off, permits, and cleanup. Cheap estimates that leave out line items always get padded later.
5. Never Pay More Than 10–15% Upfront
A deposit to order materials is normal. Paying 50%+ before work starts is a red flag. Contractors who demand large upfront payments and then ghost are a real problem in NJ, especially post-storm.
6. Check Google Reviews — Specifically the Negative Ones
Read the 1-star and 2-star reviews. How does the company respond? Do they address the issue professionally or get defensive? A few bad reviews over years of work is normal. A pattern of unresolved complaints is not.
7. Avoid Storm Chasers
After any significant weather event, out-of-state contractors flood NJ looking for quick jobs. They’re here today, gone when you need warranty work. Hire someone local who’ll be around in 5 years if something fails.
Why Homeowners in Union County Choose Herts Roofing
We’ve been based in Cranford since 2015. We’re licensed, insured, Owens Corning Preferred, and CertainTeed certified. Over 116 Google reviews at 4.9 stars. We pull our own permits, use our own crews, and stand behind our work with a 15-year workmanship warranty.
Call (908) 206-4240 or get your free estimate here.