Prepare for the following contingency items to be considered during a roofing project.

1. Pre-Job Meeting - Be adamant on a pre-construction meeting so decisions can be made on:
* Where equipment such as kettles, crane, dumpster, etc. can be placed
* Job start date
* Estimated completion date
* Contact information (phone numbers, beeper numbers, etc.)
* Terms of payment/draw dates

2. Prepare for Inconveniences - Prepare tenants or employees for the possible inconvenience during a roofing project (noise, smell and dust are some inconveniences). Parking may have to be disrupted to allow the contractor adequate staging areas. Tenants may require assistance to plan for disruptions and may wish to know completion dates.

3. Specify Materials - Persist on established materials. All Proposals should include a sample warranty so that you can understand the coverage, limitations and exclusions.

4. Avoid Roofing Over Existing Roofing Systems - It is generally a false economy to install a new roof over an old one. Wet insulation can continue to cause leaks and deterioration of the structure.

5. Inspect Substrates - Arrange to be on site during removal of the old roofing system. The extent of any deteriorated decking which supports the roof is usually concealed. Proposals commonly indicate that replacement of the substrate will be done as needed at an additional charge. On-site inspections will provide the facts to the extent of any damage discovered.

6. Replace Metal Flashing Components - Replace all perimeter metal flashings, vents, base flashings and expansion joints. Sheet metal components can become damaged during removal even if the intent is to reuse them. Gutters and downspouts are a few exceptions.

7. Consult Tax Advisors - In some instances, re-roofing may be eligible as a tax-deductible repair rather than capital improvement.