Because the right contractor protects your home — and the wrong one costs you thousands.


The Biggest Risk in Remodeling Isn’t the Project — It’s the Contractor

Every homeowner worries about the project going wrong…

but the real risk is choosing the wrong contractor.

A good contractor protects your home, your money, your time, and your safety.

A bad contractor creates stress, surprise costs, failed inspections, and long-term damage you won’t see until it’s too late.

This guide tells homeowners what we wish everyone knew before signing a contract.


1. Licensing & Insurance Aren’t “Extras” — They’re Non-Negotiable

In Illinois, roofing contractors are required by law to be licensed (Illinois Compiled Statutes, 2024).

If someone is offering roofing work without a license, they are breaking state law and putting your home at risk.

Insurance is just as important.

A legitimate contractor should have:

  • General liability insurance
  • Workers’ compensation
  • License documentation (for roofing)

If they can’t show it?

That’s your answer.


2. Cheap Bids Are Cheap for a Reason

We cannot say this loudly enough:

If one bid is far lower than the others, something is missing.

Low bids often mean:

  • No permit
  • No tear-off
  • No code-required materials
  • No insurance (so YOU pay if someone gets hurt)
  • No attic ventilation system
  • No WRB (for siding)
  • Inferior flashing
  • Day labor instead of trained installers
  • No warranty — or one they don’t intend to honor

A low price today becomes a very high price later.


3. Look for Transparency, Not Evasiveness

A trustworthy contractor will:

✔ Explain your options

✔ Provide clear pricing

✔ Show the materials being used

✔ Walk you through the scope of work

✔ Tell you what’s NOT included

✔ Pull permits and pass inspections

A shady contractor will:

🚩 Avoid details

🚩 Rush you into signing

🚩 Refuse to put things in writing

🚩 Say “we don’t need a permit”

🚩 Promise discounts “only good today”

Your contractor should never make you feel pressured or confused.


4. Permits & Inspections Are a Sign of a Real Professional

As covered in Part 2, contractors who avoid permits… avoid responsibility.

Permits ensure:

  • Code compliance
  • Safety
  • Accountability
  • Documentation for future home sales

Inspectors aren’t there to fail your contractor — they’re there to protect YOU (Barricade Building Products, 2020).

If a contractor says you don’t need a permit, the question becomes:

“Why don’t they want anyone checking their work?”


5. Ask Who Will Actually Be Working on Your Home

A company can have a great salesperson… but who is on your roof?

Ask:

  • Are your installers employees or subcontractors?
  • Are they trained and certified in the products you install?
  • How long have they been with your company?
  • Do you have a crew manager on site?

Stan’s answer to these questions demonstrates professionalism.

Shady contractors avoid them.


6. Warranties Should Be Written, Not Verbal

Real contractors offer:

  • Material warranties (manufacturer)
  • Workmanship warranties (contractor)

If it’s not in writing, it’s not a warranty.

A strong contractor will also explain what voids a warranty:

  • Improper ventilation
  • Unauthorized modifications
  • Storm chaser repairs
  • Not using approved products

Education is part of trust.


7. Communication Makes or Breaks a Project

You should know:

  • Who your point of contact is
  • How often you’ll get updates
  • How to reach someone during the job
  • What happens if a problem arises
  • What the next steps are after the estimate

Contractors who communicate poorly before the job…

communicate even worse once they’ve started.


8. A Legitimate Contractor Will Not Rush You

High-pressure sales tactics are a red flag.

A reputable contractor says:

✔ “Take your time reviewing the estimate.”

✔ “Let us know if you have questions.”

✔ “Here are your options.”

The focus should be on your comfort, not a quick signature.


9. Photos, Documentation & Proof Matter

Professional contractors document:

  • Hidden damage
  • Rotten decking
  • Moisture issues
  • Structural concerns
  • Before-and-after photos

This protects YOU and keeps everything transparent.

If a contractor can’t provide documentation, that’s a problem.

10. The Right Contractor Feels Like a Partner, Not a Gamble

When you choose correctly, you feel:

  • Supported
  • Educated
  • Confident
  • In control
  • Protected

When you choose poorly, you feel:

  • Rushed
  • Unsure
  • Pressured
  • Confused
  • Regretful

Your home deserves the former — not the latter.


Choose the Contractor Who Chooses YOU Back

The right contractor:

✔ Follows the law

✔ Pulls permits

✔ Communicates clearly

✔ Shows up consistently

✔ Documents everything

✔ Uses trained professionals

✔ Stands behind their work

✔ Protects your home like it’s their own

That’s what we do at Stan’s — and that’s why homeowners trust us.


APA 7th Edition References

Barricade Building Products. (2020). House wrap code requirements: Understanding the IRC & IBC. https://barricadebp.com/news/house-wrap-code-requirements

Illinois Compiled Statutes. (2024). Roofing Industry Licensing Act, 225 ILCS 335. https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1360

Hard Decks. (n.d.). Illinois deck building codes: What homeowners should know. https://www.harddecks.com/deck-building-codes/