What to Know About Ram Renovations for Your Roof

Ram Renovations handles roofing work across South Carolina, with a focus on residential replacement and repair

Ram Renovations is a roofing contractor operating in South Carolina that takes on residential roof replacement, repair, and maintenance projects. The company works with homeowners who need anything from fixing storm damage to replacing an aging roof. Like any contractor you hire for roofing work, understanding how they operate, what to expect from the process, and how to verify their credentials will help you make an informed decision about whether they're the right fit for your project.

Before hiring any roofing contractor—including Ram Renovations—you should gather basic information about the company, check their licensing and insurance, and compare their estimate against others in your area. This protects you from incomplete work, cost overruns, and liability issues if someone is injured on your property during the job.

Key Takeaways

• South Carolina requires roofing contractors to be licensed through the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DHEC), and you can verify any contractor's license status online before hiring.
• Get written estimates from at least three roofing contractors so you can compare pricing, materials, and timeline for your specific project.
• Confirm that any contractor you hire carries both general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance, and ask for proof in writing.
• A detailed contract should specify the roofing materials, labor costs, start and end dates, payment schedule, and warranty terms before work begins.
• Check online reviews and ask for references from recent projects, but remember that reviews alone don't verify licensing or insurance status.

How to verify a roofing contractor's license in South Carolina

South Carolina's Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DHEC) maintains a public database of licensed contractors. You can search for Ram Renovations or any roofing company online through the DHEC website to confirm their license is current and in good standing. A valid license means the contractor has met the state's training and bonding requirements, though it does not may provide the quality of their work.

Write down the license number from the DHEC database and compare it to what the contractor provides you. If the numbers don't match or the license shows as inactive or expired, do not hire that contractor. Keep a copy of the license verification for your records in case you need to file a complaint later.

What to ask about insurance and bonding

Before Ram Renovations or any roofing contractor sets foot on your property, ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. General liability covers damage to your home or property during the work; workers' compensation covers medical costs if a worker is injured on your roof. Request a certificate of insurance in writing, and verify the policy dates cover the entire period of your project.

Bonding is separate from insurance. A bond protects you financially if the contractor abandons the job or doesn't pay suppliers and laborers. Ask whether Ram Renovations carries a performance bond for your specific project. If they decline or cannot provide proof, that is a red flag—it suggests they may not be established enough to complete the work or handle unexpected costs.

Getting and comparing written estimates

A roofing estimate should be detailed and in writing. It should list the roofing material (asphalt shingles, metal, tile, etc.), the square footage of your roof, labor costs, the timeline from start to finish, and any additional work like removing old shingles or repairing underlying damage. Vague estimates like "roof replacement: $5,000" don't give you enough information to compare fairly or to hold the contractor accountable if costs rise.

Get estimates from at least two or three roofing contractors so you can see how pricing varies. If one estimate is significantly lower than the others, ask why—it may mean they're using cheaper materials, cutting corners on labor, or they've misunderstood the scope of work. If one is significantly higher, ask what additional value they're providing. A middle-range estimate from a licensed, insured contractor with good references is often the safest choice.

Understanding roofing materials and warranties

The type of roofing material affects both the cost and how long your roof will last. Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable option in South Carolina; they typically last 15 to 20 years. Metal roofing costs more upfront but can last 40 to 70 years. Tile and slate are durable but heavy and expensive. Your contractor should explain which materials are suitable for your home's structure and climate, and why they're recommending a particular option.

Ask about the warranty on both materials and labor. A manufacturer's warranty covers defects in the shingles or materials themselves; a labor warranty covers the contractor's workmanship. Most reputable contractors offer a labor warranty of at least five years. Get the warranty terms in writing as part of your contract, including what is and isn't covered, how long it lasts, and how to file a claim if something goes wrong.

What a roofing contract should include

Before work starts, you and Ram Renovations should sign a contract that spells out every detail of the job. The contract should include the roofing material and brand, the total cost broken down by labor and materials, the start date and expected completion date, the payment schedule (how much you pay upfront, during work, and at the end), and what happens if the project runs over budget or takes longer than expected.

The contract should also state who is responsible for cleanup and debris removal, whether the old roof will be removed or new shingles installed over it, and what happens if weather delays the work. Include a clause that the contractor will obtain any necessary permits from your city or county—this is the contractor's responsibility, not yours. Never pay the full amount upfront; a typical schedule is 25 percent down, 50 percent when the work is halfway done, and 25 percent upon completion and inspection.

Red flags to watch for when hiring a roofer

Avoid contractors who pressure you to decide quickly, demand full payment upfront, or refuse to provide written estimates and contracts. Avoid anyone who shows up at your door unsolicited after a storm and offers to file your insurance claim for you—this is a common scam. Legitimate contractors let you make your own insurance claim and work with your adjuster.

Be cautious if a contractor cannot provide a license number, refuses to show proof of insurance, or has no references you can contact. If they quote a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. A suspiciously low bid often means the contractor will cut corners, use inferior materials, or find reasons to charge you extra once the work is underway.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A roofing contractor can inspect your roof and advise you. Generally, if your roof is less than 15 years old and damage is limited to a few shingles or a small area, repair is usually the answer. If your roof is 20 years or older, has widespread damage, or leaks keep recurring, replacement is often more cost-effective in the long run. Ask your contractor to explain why they're recommending one option over the other.

What should I do if I'm not satisfied with the work after completion?

Document the problem with photos and contact Ram Renovations in writing (email or certified mail) describing the issue and asking them to fix it within a specific timeframe, usually 10 to 14 days. Reference the labor warranty in your contract. If they don't respond or refuse, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, which investigates contractor complaints and can take action against licensed contractors who violate state rules.

Do I need a permit for roof replacement in South Carolina?

Most South Carolina cities and counties require a permit for roof replacement. The contractor should handle obtaining the permit as part of their job; it's included in the cost and timeline. An inspector will typically visit once the work is complete to verify it meets local building codes. Ask your contractor whether a permit is needed in your area and confirm they'll obtain it before starting work.

Can I file an insurance claim for roof damage, and will the contractor help?

Yes, you can file a claim with your homeowner's insurance if your roof is damaged by a covered event like a storm or fallen tree. You should file the claim yourself or with help from your insurance agent. Some contractors offer to help coordinate with your insurance adjuster, which is fine, but be wary of anyone who insists on handling the entire claim process for you or pressures you to use their preferred insurance company.

What's the typical timeline for a roof replacement?

A straightforward roof replacement on a single-story home usually takes three to five days, depending on the size of the roof, weather, and whether the old roof needs to be removed first. Larger homes or complex roofs may take longer. Your written estimate should include a start date and expected completion date, with a note about how weather delays are handled. Ask the contractor to call you if they expect to run significantly behind schedule.