Surrett Roofing & Home Repair: What to Know Before You Call

Who Surrett Roofing & Home Repair is and what they do

Surrett Roofing & Home Repair is a South Carolina-based contractor that handles roof replacement, repair, and related home maintenance work. The company operates primarily in the Midlands region and takes on both residential and commercial projects. They work with standard roofing materials and can assess damage from storms, age, or wear.

Like any roofing contractor, Surrett's value depends on getting a clear estimate before work begins, understanding what your insurance may cover, and knowing what to expect during the job. This guide walks through how to evaluate a roofing contractor and what questions to ask before signing a contract.

Key Takeaways

• Always get written estimates from at least two contractors so you can compare scope, materials, and price side by side.
• If a storm damaged your roof, contact your homeowner's insurance first—many policies cover roof replacement or repair after weather events.
• Ask any contractor for references from recent jobs in your area and verify they carry liability insurance and workers' compensation.
• Roof work typically takes a few days to a week depending on size and weather; confirm the timeline and what happens if rain delays the job.
• Get the warranty terms in writing, including what the contractor guarantees and for how long, separate from the manufacturer's warranty on materials.

How to get a roofing estimate and what to compare

Contact Surrett or other local contractors and ask for an in-person inspection. A contractor should climb onto your roof (or use binoculars from the ground if conditions are unsafe) and look at the actual damage or wear. They should then provide a written estimate that lists the materials they plan to use, the scope of work, labor costs, and the total price.

When comparing estimates, look at whether they include removal of old roofing, disposal fees, underlayment, flashing, and cleanup. A low estimate that leaves out these details may mean hidden costs later. Ask whether the price includes a site visit after the job to inspect the work and whether they'll handle any punch-list items at no extra charge.

If your roof was damaged by a storm, your homeowner's insurance may cover part or all of the cost. Take photos of the damage, file a claim with your insurer, and ask whether they require a specific contractor or will reimburse you after the work is done. Some contractors work directly with insurance adjusters; others expect you to handle the claim yourself.

Questions to ask before hiring

Ask whether the contractor is licensed and insured. In South Carolina, roofing contractors do not require a state license, but they should carry liability insurance (to cover damage to your home or property) and workers' compensation (to cover injuries to their crew). Ask to see proof of both before work starts.

Request at least three references from jobs completed in the last year or two in your area. Call those references and ask whether the work was finished on time, whether the crew cleaned up afterward, and whether any issues came up after the job was done. Ask the contractor what their warranty covers—typically they may provide their labor for one to five years, while the roofing material itself carries a separate manufacturer's warranty.

Confirm the timeline. Most roof replacements take three to seven days depending on the size of the roof and weather. Ask what happens if rain stops the work partway through and whether they'll cover your home with a tarp to prevent leaks. Get the payment schedule in writing—many contractors ask for a deposit upfront, payment when the work is halfway done, and final payment when the job is complete.

What to expect during and after the work

On the day work begins, the crew will remove old roofing material, inspect the decking underneath for rot or damage, and replace any damaged wood. They'll then install new underlayment, flashing around chimneys and vents, and the new roofing material. The job is loud and dusty; plan for noise during daylight hours and ask the contractor to keep debris contained in one area if possible.

After the work is done, walk the roof with the contractor (or ask them to show you photos if you're not comfortable on a ladder) and confirm that seams are sealed, flashing is secure, and there are no gaps or loose material. Ask them to clean up all debris and haul it away. Many contractors offer a follow-up visit a few weeks later to check for any settling or issues.

Keep all paperwork—the estimate, invoice, warranty documents, and any photos of the work. If a problem comes up later, you'll need proof of what was done and when. Most roofing issues that appear within the first year are covered under the contractor's warranty.

Insurance and storm damage claims

If your roof was damaged by wind, hail, or a fallen tree, your homeowner's insurance may cover the repair or replacement. File a claim as soon as possible and provide photos of the damage. The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the roof and determine what they'll pay. Some policies cover the full replacement cost; others pay based on the age and condition of the roof before the damage.

Ask your insurance company whether they have a preferred contractor list or whether you can choose your own. If you choose your own, the contractor can work with the adjuster to make sure the estimate matches what the insurance company will pay. Be aware that if the adjuster's estimate is lower than the contractor's, you may have to pay the difference out of pocket or negotiate with the contractor.

Red flags and what to avoid

Be cautious of contractors who show up at your door after a storm and offer to file your insurance claim for you—some use high-pressure sales tactics or inflate estimates to maximize insurance payouts. Get multiple estimates and check references before committing to any contractor. Avoid paying the full amount upfront; a standard payment schedule protects both you and the contractor.

If a contractor cannot provide proof of insurance or references, or if they pressure you to sign a contract on the spot, look elsewhere. Legitimate contractors are happy to answer questions and give you time to decide. If you're unsure about a contractor's reputation, check the Better Business Bureau or ask your local building department whether they've received complaints.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a roof typically last in South Carolina?

Asphalt shingles, the most common roofing material, usually last 15 to 20 years in South Carolina's climate. Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years. Heat, humidity, and storm damage can shorten that lifespan, so have your roof inspected every few years if it's over 10 years old.

Can I repair just part of my roof instead of replacing the whole thing?

Yes, if the damage is limited to a small area and the rest of the roof is in good condition. However, if your roof is over 15 years old or has widespread damage, replacement is often more cost-effective than repeated repairs. A contractor can advise you based on what they see during the inspection.

What should I do if I notice a leak after the work is done?

Contact the contractor immediately and describe where the leak is and when you noticed it. Most contractors will return to inspect and fix leaks that appear within their warranty period at no charge. If the contractor is unresponsive, document the leak with photos and contact your homeowner's insurance.

Do I need a permit to replace my roof in South Carolina?

Permit requirements vary by city and county. Some areas require a permit for roof replacement; others do not. Ask the contractor whether they'll handle permits or whether you need to contact your local building department. Permits typically cost between $50 and $200 and protect you by ensuring the work meets local building codes.

What's the difference between the contractor's warranty and the material warranty?

The contractor's warranty covers their labor and workmanship—typically one to five years. The material warranty, issued by the shingle or roofing manufacturer, covers defects in the product itself and usually lasts 20 to 50 years depending on the material. Both should be provided in writing so you know what's covered if something goes wrong.