What to Know About Tabor Homes & Exteriors for Your Roofing Project
Tabor Homes & Exteriors serves residential roofing projects across South Carolina
Tabor Homes & Exteriors is a roofing contractor based in South Carolina that handles residential roof installation, repair, and replacement. The company works with homeowners on projects ranging from storm damage to routine maintenance and full roof replacements. If you are looking at roofing options in the state, understanding what a contractor offers—and what questions to ask before hiring—helps you make an informed decision about your project.
Like any roofing contractor, Tabor Homes & Exteriors is one option among many in South Carolina's roofing market. This guide explains what to consider when evaluating any roofing contractor, what information to gather before you hire, and how to protect yourself during the process.
Key Takeaways
- Tabor Homes & Exteriors is a South Carolina-based residential roofing contractor offering installation, repair, and replacement services.
- Before hiring any roofing contractor, verify their licensing, insurance coverage, and references from past customers.
- Get written estimates from multiple contractors so you can compare pricing, materials, and timelines side by side.
- Check whether a contractor is bonded and insured, and understand what warranty they offer on labor and materials.
How to research a roofing contractor before you hire
Start by confirming that any roofing contractor you consider—including Tabor Homes & Exteriors—holds a valid South Carolina roofing license. The South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCDHEC) maintains records of licensed contractors. You can search their database to verify current licensure and check for any complaints or disciplinary actions filed against the company.
Ask the contractor directly for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. A roofing company should carry both. Liability insurance protects your property if something goes wrong during the work; workers' compensation protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your roof. Request the name and policy number of their insurance carrier, and ask your insurance agent to verify the coverage is active.
Request references from at least three recent roofing projects the contractor completed. Contact those homeowners and ask specific questions: Did the work finish on time? Did the crew clean up afterward? Did the contractor address problems that came up during the job? Were there any issues after the work was done? References give you insight into how a contractor actually performs, not just what they promise.
What to ask about pricing and materials
Request a written estimate from Tabor Homes & Exteriors and from at least two other roofing contractors. A written estimate should include the roofing material (asphalt shingles, metal, tile, or other), the square footage of your roof, the labor cost, the material cost, the timeline for completion, and any warranty details. Comparing three estimates side by side shows you whether pricing is in line with the market and what differences exist in materials or scope.
Ask whether the estimate includes removal of your old roof or if that is an add-on cost. Clarify what happens if the contractor discovers damage underneath the old roof during removal—will they charge extra to repair it, or is that included? Understanding these details prevents surprises when the bill arrives.
Discuss the roofing material itself. Different materials have different lifespans, maintenance needs, and costs. Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable; metal roofing lasts longer but costs more upfront. Ask the contractor which material they recommend for your climate and why, and what warranty the manufacturer offers on the material itself.
Understanding warranties and guarantees
A roofing contractor should offer a warranty on their labor—typically one to ten years depending on the company. This covers problems caused by how the work was done, not by weather or wear. The roofing material itself usually comes with a manufacturer's warranty that covers defects in the product. Make sure you understand which warranty covers what, and ask for both warranties in writing before work begins.
Some contractors offer extended warranties or guarantees for an additional cost. Read the fine print carefully. A warranty that sounds broad may have exclusions—for example, it might not cover damage from high winds or hail. Ask the contractor to explain exactly what is and is not covered, and what you have to do to keep the warranty valid (for example, annual inspections or maintenance).
What to expect during the roofing project
Once you hire a contractor, confirm the start date and expected completion date in writing. Ask how long the crew will be on your roof each day and whether they will work weekends. Clarify who is responsible for protecting your landscaping, gutters, and siding during the work, and what the contractor will do if weather delays the project.
Before work begins, walk through your home with the contractor and point out any interior water stains, cracks, or other damage you have noticed. Take photos. This creates a record of the condition before the work, so you and the contractor agree on what damage existed beforehand versus what might happen during the project.
During the work, the contractor should keep your property reasonably clean at the end of each day. Roofing generates debris—nails, shingle pieces, tar paper—and a professional crew should sweep and remove it. If you notice problems as the work progresses, address them with the contractor immediately rather than waiting until the job is done.
Protecting yourself with a written contract
Never hire a roofing contractor based on a verbal agreement. A written contract should include the contractor's name, license number, and insurance information; a detailed description of the work; the total price and payment schedule; the start and completion dates; the warranty terms; and what happens if either party needs to cancel. The contract should also specify who is responsible for obtaining any required permits and who will handle cleanup.
South Carolina law requires contractors to provide a written contract before work begins. Read it carefully before signing. If anything is unclear, ask the contractor to explain it or revise the contract. Do not sign a blank contract or one with blank spaces to be filled in later.
Avoid paying the full amount upfront. A typical payment schedule might be one-third down to start, one-third when the roof is halfway done, and one-third upon completion. Some contractors ask for a deposit to reserve your spot on their schedule, which is reasonable—but the deposit should not exceed 10 to 15 percent of the total cost.
Steps to take if problems arise after the work is done
After the contractor finishes, schedule a final walkthrough. Check that the roof looks even and complete, that flashing around vents and chimneys is sealed, and that gutters are clear. If you spot problems, document them with photos and notify the contractor in writing before you make the final payment.
If problems appear after you have paid—for example, a leak or loose shingles—contact the contractor immediately and refer to the warranty. Keep records of all communication. If the contractor does not respond or refuses to address the issue, contact the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation to file a complaint. You can also consult a local attorney about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if Tabor Homes & Exteriors is licensed in South Carolina?
Search the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation database online using the contractor's name or license number. The database shows whether a license is current and whether any complaints have been filed. You can also call the department directly to verify.
What should I do if a roofing contractor gives me a verbal estimate?
Ask them to provide the estimate in writing before you make any decision. A written estimate protects you by creating a clear record of what work will be done, what materials will be used, and what the cost will be. Verbal estimates can lead to misunderstandings and disputes later.
Can I negotiate the price with a roofing contractor?
You can discuss pricing, but remember that the lowest bid is not always the best value. A contractor who bids significantly lower than others may be cutting corners on materials or labor. Focus on comparing what each contractor is actually offering—materials, warranty, timeline—and choose based on value, not just price.
What if my roof is damaged by a storm and my insurance is involved?
Contact your insurance company first and ask about the claims process. Some insurers have preferred contractors; others let you choose. Get written estimates from contractors you are considering, and provide those to your insurance adjuster. The adjuster will determine what the insurance will cover, and you will be responsible for any amount above that.
How long does a typical roof replacement take?
A full roof replacement on a standard residential home usually takes three to five days, depending on the size of the roof, the weather, and the complexity of the job. Ask your contractor for a specific timeline before you hire them, and confirm it in your written contract.