Because social distancing is important during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s recommended that you message roofers after narrowing down your choices through an online search of local roofers near you.

Ask if the roofer is willing to conduct an assessment via video chat rather than a traditional site inspection. Additionally, strategize on what other steps you can collectively take to make sure you’re following guidelines on social distancing during this time, including conducting a virtual payment.

To find out whether a roofer is an essential service provider during the COVID-19 pandemic, start by visiting your state or city’s government website. Local governments are providing up-to-date information for residents during this time.

A national guideline is available on CISA’s website, Identifying Critical Infrastructure During COVID-19. This page addresses 16 different categories of essential infrastructure sectors, but note that not all jurisdictions follow CISA’s definitions of critical infrastructure.  

If you decide to hire a roofer, choose virtual platforms like video chats instead of face-to-face consultations. When the roofer is working on your roof, avoid any physical contact, sanitize all involved spaces and surfaces, and use digital payments instead of cash or a check.

Digital payment platforms are common among roofers, roof repair companies and other services. The COVID-19 pandemic will likely cause more service providers to adopt platforms like PayPal, Zelle, Google Pay, Square Cash, Venmo and others instead of cash or check to decrease the risk of transmission.

You can typically find out whether roofers accept digital payments on their online profiles, and you should confirm this information with them during a consultation call.

Generally, a roofer will likely not need to enter your home. The bulk of the work takes place on and around the edges of the roof, where roofing material meets either dormer walls or other structures. So, there is usually no need for person-to-person contact. However, there might be some cases where a roofer needs to enter your home, perhaps to inspect damage or access electrical outlets.

You can take care of any consultation calls using video chats, photos and emails, and payment should take place on virtual platforms. Put together a strategy with any local roofing professionals you contact.

To find out the degree to which a roofing service can operate remotely, it’s best to contact local roofers and roofing repair specialists near you.

See if they will schedule a video call so that you can show them the project and get an idea of the cost. This will also allow them to give you recommendations on the type of roofing material, and the best time of year to do the project. You might also be able to book a roof installation or repair service far out in advance.