"Had one ask for dates and specifics...wish I'd kept better notes then."
Yeah, that's a good point about keeping notes. Photos usually do the trick, but I've seen adjusters get super detailed when there's a recurring issue. Had a client once who had multiple leaks in the same spot—turned out the roofer kept patching without addressing the root cause. Adjuster wanted exact dates, weather conditions, even asked if they'd noticed water stains earlier...it was pretty intense. Made me realize how useful it is to jot down quick notes whenever something happens, even if it seems minor at the time. You never know when you'll need that info later. Guess it's like you said, depends on how unlucky you feel, haha.
"Adjuster wanted exact dates, weather conditions, even asked if they'd noticed water stains earlier...it was pretty intense."
Yeah, adjusters can get pretty hardcore about the details—been there myself. Learned my lesson after a similar headache. Now I just snap quick pics and jot down notes on my phone whenever something weird pops up. Saved me more than once when the roofer tried to blame "unusual weather" for shoddy work...right. Better safe than sorry, especially with roofs.
Yeah, dealing with adjusters can feel like you're on trial sometimes. Had a similar experience a couple years back when a tree branch took out part of my gutter during a storm. Adjuster grilled me about the exact wind speed and wanted me to recall if I'd noticed any loose screws before the incident...like, seriously? Who keeps track of that stuff?
Anyway, after that mess, I started doing something similar—just snapping quick photos whenever something looks off around the house. Came in handy last winter when ice dams caused some leaks. The adjuster tried to say it was poor maintenance, but I had timestamped pics showing the gutters were clear just days before it happened. Shut that argument down real quick.
Glad you finally found a roofing company that's legit, though. Good ones are tough to come by, especially when you're trying to stick to a budget. I've learned the hard way that sometimes it's worth paying a little extra upfront for someone trustworthy. Cheap fixes usually end up costing more in the long run...been there, done that.
Sounds like you're on top of things now, though. Roof issues are always stressful, but at least you've got your bases covered with documentation. It's definitely one of those "live and learn" homeowner moments we all seem to go through eventually.
I get your point about paying extra upfront, but honestly, sometimes expensive doesn't automatically mean trustworthy. I had a friend who shelled out big bucks for a highly recommended roofing company, and they still ended up cutting corners. Turns out they subcontracted half the job without telling him, and he only found out when issues popped up later.
As a first-time homeowner, I'm starting to think it's less about price and more about doing your homework—checking reviews, asking neighbors who've had work done, and maybe even visiting job sites if you can. Documentation definitely helps with adjusters, but it won't save you from shady contractors. I'm still learning this stuff myself, but it seems like there's no foolproof shortcut to finding quality work. You just gotta stay skeptical and ask tons of questions...even if it annoys the heck out of them.
- Totally agree, price doesn't always equal quality—seen plenty of pricey jobs turn into disasters.
- Subcontracting isn't always bad though, IF they're upfront about it. Some companies subcontract specialized tasks (like metal flashing or chimney work) to experts. But hiding it? Major red flag.
- Definitely ask about their crew—are they employees or subs? How long have they worked together? Good teams stick around.
- Reviews help, but watch out for overly perfect ratings. Real reviews usually have a mix of good and minor complaints.
- Also, warranties matter. Ask specifically what's covered and for how long. A solid warranty can save you headaches down the road.
- Bottom line: trust your gut. If something feels off or they're dodging questions...move on. Plenty of honest roofers out there who won't mind your skepticism.
