Roberson Mendel Roofing: What to Know Before You Hire

Who Roberson Mendel Roofing Is and What They Do

Roberson Mendel Roofing 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 including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and other common systems used across the state. Like any roofing contractor, they take on jobs ranging from storm damage repairs to full roof replacements on existing structures.

Before hiring any roofing company—including Roberson Mendel—you should gather basic information about their licensing, insurance, and track record in your area. This protects you from liability if someone is injured on your property and ensures the work meets South Carolina building codes.

Key Takeaways

• Verify that any roofing contractor holds a current South Carolina roofing license and carries general liability and workers' compensation insurance before signing a contract.
• Get written estimates from at least two or three roofing companies so you can compare pricing, materials, and warranty terms side by side.
• Ask whether the contractor will pull permits for your project, since unpermitted work can create problems when you sell your home or file an insurance claim.
• Request references from recent jobs in your county and follow up by calling them to ask about the quality of work and whether the project stayed on schedule.
• Read your contract carefully, including the payment schedule, start and end dates, and what happens if weather delays the work or the contractor finds hidden damage.

How to Verify Licensing and Insurance

South Carolina requires roofing contractors to hold a license issued by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCDHEC). You can search for a contractor's license status on the SCDHEC website by name or license number. This search tells you whether the license is active, whether it has been suspended, and what type of work the contractor is authorized to perform.

Ask the contractor directly for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. General liability covers damage to your property or injury to a third party; workers' compensation covers injuries to the contractor's employees. Request a certificate of insurance and verify the policy is current. If the contractor cannot provide this documentation, move on to another company.

What to Ask Before Getting a Quote

Before a contractor visits your home, ask whether they will charge for an estimate. Most roofing companies in South Carolina offer free inspections and written quotes, but some charge a small fee. Clarify this upfront so there are no surprises.

When the contractor arrives, ask them to inspect both the roof itself and the interior of your attic or upper floor. This helps identify leaks, structural damage, or ventilation problems that may not be visible from the ground. A thorough inspection takes time and shows the contractor is being careful.

Ask what materials they recommend and why. Different roofing materials have different lifespans, costs, and maintenance needs. Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable; metal roofing lasts longer but costs more upfront. The contractor should explain the trade-offs for your specific situation.

Understanding the Estimate and Contract

A written estimate should include the scope of work (what is being replaced or repaired), the materials to be used, the total cost, and the warranty on both materials and labor. It should also state whether the contractor will pull permits and who is responsible for cleanup and debris removal.

The contract should specify a start date and expected completion date, though roofing work is often delayed by weather. Ask what happens if the project takes longer than expected or if the contractor discovers hidden damage (like rotted wood under the shingles) once work begins. A good contract will outline how these situations are handled and whether additional costs require your written approval before work proceeds.

Payment terms matter. Many contractors ask for a deposit upfront, a payment when the roof is roughed in (the base layer is down), and a final payment when the work is complete. Avoid contractors who ask for full payment before any work is done. Never pay cash without a receipt.

Checking References and Reviews

Ask the contractor for at least three references from jobs completed in your county within the past year. Call these references and ask specific questions: Did the work start and finish on time? Were there unexpected costs? Is the roof holding up well? Would they hire this contractor again? References from actual customers are more reliable than online reviews alone, though online reviews can give you a sense of common complaints.

Search for the company name on Google, the Better Business Bureau, and local South Carolina contractor review sites. Look for patterns in complaints rather than isolated negative reviews. A contractor with dozens of five-star reviews and a few one-star reviews is different from one with mostly three-star reviews and complaints about communication or unfinished work.

What Happens After the Work Is Done

Once the roof is complete, the contractor should provide you with a warranty document. Most manufacturers warrant shingles or metal panels for 20 to 50 years, depending on the material. The contractor typically warrants their labor for one to ten years. Keep this documentation in a safe place; you will need it if you ever file an insurance claim or sell your home.

Ask the contractor whether they recommend any maintenance, such as gutter cleaning or annual inspections. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your roof and catch small problems before they become expensive repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a new roof or just repairs?

A contractor should inspect your roof and tell you whether repairs will solve the problem or whether replacement is necessary. If your roof is leaking in one spot and the rest is in good condition, repair may be enough. If the roof is 20 years old, has multiple leaks, or shows widespread damage, replacement is usually more cost-effective in the long run.

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

Most roof replacements and major repairs require a permit from your local building department. Permits ensure the work meets code and protect you if you sell your home. Ask the contractor whether they will pull the permit or whether you need to do it yourself. Some contractors include permit costs in their estimate; others charge separately.

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

Contact the contractor in writing and describe the problem. Give them a reasonable time to inspect and fix it. If they do not respond or refuse to fix the issue, contact your local building department or the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation to file a complaint. Keep all documentation—photos, emails, the contract, and the warranty.

How much does a roof replacement typically cost in South Carolina?

Costs vary widely depending on the size of your roof, the materials used, and your location within the state. Get multiple written estimates so you can compare. Be wary of estimates that are significantly lower than others; they may indicate the contractor is cutting corners or using lower-quality materials.

Can I file an insurance claim for roof damage?

If your roof is damaged by a covered event (like a storm or fire), your homeowners insurance may cover repairs or replacement. Contact your insurance company and ask them to send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Do not start repairs until the adjuster has assessed the damage, or your claim may be denied. The contractor can work with your insurance company to coordinate payment.