Harvell Construction: What to Know About This South Carolina Roofing Company
Who Harvell Construction Is and What They Do
Harvell Construction is a roofing contractor based in South Carolina that handles residential and commercial roof work. The company takes on projects ranging from roof repairs and replacements to full installations, and they work with standard roofing materials common to the region.
Like other roofing contractors in South Carolina, Harvell operates in a market where weather—particularly hurricanes, heavy rain, and summer heat—drives much of the demand for roof maintenance and replacement. If you are looking at roofing companies in the state, understanding what a contractor does, how they price work, and what to expect from the process will help you make a decision that fits your property and budget.
Key Takeaways
- Harvell Construction is a South Carolina roofing company offering repairs, replacements, and new installations for homes and businesses.
- Before hiring any roofing contractor, verify they hold a current license with South Carolina's licensing board and carry liability insurance.
- Get written estimates from multiple contractors so you can compare price, materials, timeline, and warranty terms side by side.
- South Carolina roofing work often involves storm damage claims; ask whether a contractor has experience working with insurance companies.
- Check references and online reviews, but remember that a single negative review does not necessarily reflect the company's overall track record.
How to Vet a Roofing Contractor in South Carolina
Before you hire Harvell Construction or any roofing company, confirm that they are licensed to work in South Carolina. The state requires roofing contractors to hold a license issued by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. You can search the contractor's license status on the SCDHEC or SCLR website to verify it is current and in good standing.
Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. A contractor without insurance puts you at financial risk if someone is injured on your property or if damage occurs during the work. Request the name of their insurance carrier and a certificate of insurance, and do not accept a verbal promise—get it in writing.
Call or visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see whether the company has a profile there and what the complaint history looks like. Read online reviews on Google, Yelp, and the BBB, but keep in mind that people are more likely to leave a review after a bad experience than a good one. A company with mostly positive reviews and a few negative ones is normal; a pattern of unresolved complaints is a red flag.
Getting Estimates and Comparing Costs
Contact at least three roofing contractors, including Harvell Construction if you are considering them, and ask each for a written estimate. A solid estimate will specify the roofing material (asphalt shingles, metal, tile, or other), the square footage of the roof, labor costs, any removal or disposal fees, and the timeline for completion.
Do not automatically choose the lowest bid. A price that is significantly lower than others may mean the contractor is cutting corners on materials or labor, or it could indicate they are new and building their customer base. Compare what each estimate includes: some contractors bundle cleanup and disposal; others charge extra. Some offer longer warranties on materials or workmanship; others do not.
Ask each contractor about their payment schedule. Reputable companies typically ask for a deposit (often 25 to 50 percent) upfront, with the balance due upon completion. Be wary of any contractor who demands full payment before starting work.
Storm Damage and Insurance Claims
South Carolina experiences significant storm activity, and many roofing jobs in the state are tied to insurance claims for hail, wind, or hurricane damage. If your roof was damaged in a storm, ask whether the contractor has experience working with insurance adjusters and whether they can help document the damage for your claim.
Some contractors will meet with your insurance adjuster and provide a detailed damage report that supports your claim. Others will simply repair or replace the roof once you have received the insurance payout. Knowing what to expect ahead of time prevents confusion and delays.
If you are filing a claim, do not delay. Insurance policies often have time limits for filing, and the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove the damage was storm-related rather than wear and tear.
Materials and Warranties
South Carolina's climate—hot summers, humid air, and occasional severe weather—affects how long roofing materials last and which types perform best. Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable option; metal roofing is more durable and energy-efficient but costs more upfront. Tile and slate are premium options that last decades but require specialized installation.
Ask the contractor what materials they recommend for your climate and budget, and request the manufacturer's warranty information in writing. Most asphalt shingles come with a 20- to 30-year warranty from the manufacturer, though that does not mean the roof will last that long in practice. The contractor should also offer a workmanship warranty, typically one to ten years, that covers installation defects.
Timeline and Project Disruption
A typical roof replacement takes three to seven days, depending on the size of the roof, the weather, and the complexity of the work. Ask the contractor for a realistic start and end date, and find out what happens if weather delays the project. Most contractors will pause work during heavy rain and resume when conditions improve.
Discuss what to expect during the work: noise, debris, equipment in your yard, and whether you need to move vehicles or secure pets. A professional contractor will protect your landscaping, clean up debris daily, and leave the site in good condition at the end of each workday.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Once you have narrowed your choices, sit down with the contractor—whether Harvell Construction or another company—and ask these questions: How long have you been in business? Can you provide references from recent jobs? What is included in your warranty? What happens if I find a problem after you finish? How do you handle change orders if the scope of work changes? What is your cancellation policy?
A contractor who answers clearly and is willing to put everything in writing is more likely to deliver a professional job than one who is vague or resistant to documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my roof needs repair or replacement?
A roof inspector can tell you. If your roof is leaking, has missing or curling shingles, or is more than 20 years old, replacement is often the better choice. Repairs work for isolated damage on younger roofs. Most contractors offer a free inspection.
What should I do if I disagree with a contractor's estimate?
Get a second opinion from another contractor. If two estimates are similar and one is much higher or lower, ask the outlier to explain the difference. It may be a difference in materials, labor rates, or overhead costs—or it may be a sign the contractor is overcharging or underestimating the work.
Can I negotiate the price with a roofing contractor?
You can ask, but most established contractors have set pricing based on materials and labor. You may have more luck negotiating payment terms, bundling multiple projects, or asking about seasonal discounts. Pushing too hard on price often leads to corners being cut.
What if the contractor damages my property during the work?
Their liability insurance should cover it. Report the damage in writing immediately and provide photos. The contractor's insurance company will investigate and pay for repairs. This is another reason to confirm insurance coverage before hiring.
How long does a new roof last in South Carolina?
Asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 20 years in South Carolina's climate. Metal roofing lasts 40 to 70 years. Tile and slate can last 50 to 100 years. Regular maintenance—clearing debris, checking for damage after storms—extends the life of any roof.