First Choice Constructors: What to Know Before Hiring for Roofing Work

Who First Choice Constructors Is and What They Do

First Choice Constructors is a roofing contractor operating in South Carolina that handles residential and commercial roof installation, repair, and replacement. The company works with standard roofing materials and serves customers across the state who need anything from emergency leak repairs to full roof replacements.

Like any roofing contractor, First Choice Constructors charges based on the scope of work—whether you need a small repair, a partial roof section replaced, or an entire new roof. The cost depends on your roof's size, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the job. Before hiring any contractor, you should understand what questions to ask and what to look for in their credentials and references.

Key Takeaways

• First Choice Constructors is a South Carolina roofing company offering installation, repair, and replacement services for residential and commercial properties.
• Roofing costs vary widely based on roof size, materials chosen, and job complexity, so get written estimates from multiple contractors before deciding.
• Check any contractor's licensing status with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation before signing a contract.
• A written contract should specify the scope of work, timeline, materials, total cost, and warranty terms before work begins.
• Ask for references from recent jobs and verify insurance coverage to protect yourself if something goes wrong during the project.

How to Verify a Roofing Contractor's Credentials

South Carolina requires roofing contractors to hold a license from the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR). Before you hire First Choice Constructors or any roofing company, search the DLLR's online license verification system to confirm the contractor's license is current and in good standing. This takes five minutes and protects you from unlicensed work.

Beyond licensing, ask the contractor for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. Liability insurance covers damage to your property during the job; workers' compensation covers injuries to their employees. If a contractor cannot provide proof of both, you could be liable for accidents on your roof. Request the insurance company name and policy number, and ask your homeowner's insurance agent whether you need additional coverage during the project.

What to Include in a Written Roofing Contract

Never hire a roofing contractor based on a phone quote or handshake agreement. A written contract protects both you and the contractor by spelling out exactly what will happen. Your contract should include the scope of work (what is being repaired or replaced), the specific materials being used, the total cost broken down by labor and materials, the start and completion dates, and the warranty terms.

The contract should also specify who is responsible for cleanup, whether old roofing materials will be hauled away, and what happens if weather delays the job. Ask whether the price is fixed or if it could change if the contractor discovers hidden damage once work begins. A reputable contractor will explain these terms clearly and put them in writing before the first nail goes in.

Getting Multiple Estimates and Comparing Costs

Roofing is expensive, and prices vary significantly between contractors. Contact at least three roofing companies—including First Choice Constructors if you are considering them—and ask each for a written estimate. The estimate should be detailed enough that you can compare apples to apples: same materials, same scope of work, same timeline.

If one estimate is dramatically lower than the others, ask why. It could mean the contractor is using cheaper materials, cutting corners on labor, or planning to upsell you once work starts. Conversely, the highest estimate is not automatically the best. Look for a contractor in the middle range who has good references, proper licensing, and clear communication about what the job will involve.

Checking References and Reading Reviews

Ask First Choice Constructors or any contractor for at least three references from roofing jobs completed in the past year. Call those references and ask specific questions: Did the work start and finish on time? Were there unexpected costs? How does the roof look now, months later? Would they hire the contractor again?

You can also search online for reviews on Google, the Better Business Bureau, and local South Carolina business directories. Look for patterns in what customers say—not just one bad review, but multiple complaints about the same issue. A contractor with mostly positive reviews and a few complaints about weather delays or communication is normal; a contractor with many complaints about quality or billing is a red flag.

What Happens After the Work Is Done

A quality roofing job comes with a warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The contractor should provide you with written warranty documentation that explains what is covered, how long it lasts, and how to file a claim if a problem appears. Manufacturer warranties on roofing materials typically last 20 to 30 years; contractor workmanship warranties are often shorter, usually 5 to 10 years.

Keep all paperwork from your roofing project—the contract, estimates, warranty documents, and receipts. If you ever sell your home, the new owner may ask for proof of recent roof work and warranty information. If a problem develops after the contractor leaves, having documentation makes it easier to file a warranty claim or pursue a remedy if the work was not done correctly.

Red Flags to Watch For When Hiring a Contractor

Avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront before work begins. A standard payment schedule is usually one-third down to secure the job, one-third when materials arrive and work starts, and the final third when the job is complete and inspected. If a contractor insists on cash only or wants all the money before they show up, that is a warning sign.

Also be cautious of contractors who show up at your door after a storm offering to file insurance claims for you or who pressure you to decide immediately. Legitimate contractors give you time to think, provide written estimates, and let you make the decision on your own timeline. If someone is pushing hard or making promises that sound too good to be true, trust your instinct and get a second opinion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my roof needs repair or replacement?

A professional inspection is the only way to know for sure. If your roof is leaking, has missing shingles, or is more than 20 years old, it likely needs attention. A roofer can tell you whether patching will work or whether replacement is necessary. Most contractors offer free inspections, so there is no cost to find out.

What is the difference between a roof repair and a roof replacement?

A repair fixes a specific problem—a leak, missing shingles, or damaged flashing—without replacing the entire roof. A replacement removes the old roof down to the deck and installs a completely new one. Repairs are cheaper but only work if the rest of the roof is still sound. If your roof is old or has widespread damage, replacement is usually the better long-term choice.

Can I file an insurance claim for roof damage?

That depends on what caused the damage and your policy. Storm damage, wind, and hail are often covered; wear and tear or poor maintenance usually are not. Contact your homeowner's insurance company and describe the damage. They may send an adjuster to inspect the roof and determine whether the claim is covered. Do not sign a contract with a contractor until you know what your insurance will pay.

How long does a typical roof replacement take?

A full roof replacement usually takes three to five days, depending on the roof size and weather. Repairs can be done in a day or two. The contractor should give you a timeline in the written contract. Weather delays are common in South Carolina, so ask the contractor how they handle rain or wind that stops work mid-project.

What should I do if I am not satisfied with the roofing work?

Contact the contractor in writing and describe the problem. Most reputable contractors will return to fix defects covered under their warranty. If the contractor refuses or is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation or pursue a small claims case if the cost is within your county's limit. Having a written contract and warranty documentation makes this process much easier.