Roof repairs are both inevitable and inconvenient. When you start noticing signs of roof deterioration like leaks, dried up caulking, watermarks, mold buildup, and if your roof is over 15 years old, you need to consider a roof repair. Most people don’t know what to do when planning for roof repairs the reason being most have never done it before.

Here’s a big tip: You don’t want to wait until your roof leaks for repairs. You should on the lookout before or you could otherwise face massive interior home repairs from mold and water damage.

Here is a general blueprint for your roof repairs and renovation project:

1. Seek a Roofing Contractor

When you see a leak, the wisest thing to do is not to climb up your roof to patch it up. It is extremely dangerous – and if you do it wrong the leak will continue without you knowing. Instead, start looking for a good roofing contractor and let a professionals do their job. Here are some tips to finding the best roofing experts to work on your roof:

a. Ask for previous works. Good contractors will gladly show you their past accomplishments.

b. Ask for certifications. Certifications and accreditations are proof of their qualifications.

c. Look for stable contractors. Roofers with longer business existence have better reputation and work record.

2. Determine the extent of the damage and the work to be done

Ask your shortlisted contractors to check out your roof in order for them to determine the damage and the work that needs to be done. Get quotes from at least three companies.

3. Set a budget.

Based on the quotes and roof examinations you will have an idea on the kind of money you will need for the repairs. Some contractors will recommend add ons, more expensive materials or roof upgrades to the job. All these will cost you more. Depending on your budget, you can choose to go with the basic work or include the extras. Choose the contractor that can best supply your needs with the best price.

4. Set a schedule for the repairs.

Choose a schedule that will be most convenient for you and your family. If you have school age children, it might be more sensible to set repairs during school vacation so that you can send them to camps or a relative. Avoid scheduling repairs during winter and rainy seasons.

5. Prepare the house.

There is a high likelihood that you will need to relocate while the repairs are done. The dust, noise and open roof will make your house uninhabitable during the construction. Prepare the house before you leave. Cover furniture, remove unstable objects and wall frames and put them in the floor covered, bring houseplants outside the house and remove valuables.

6. Set up a temporary home.

Make arrangements for a temporary home. You can live in a nearby hotel if you need to be in the premises. You can also take vacations or go visiting some relatives. Do not forget to include the additional expenses to your budget.

7. Prepare a Plan B.

Anything can go awry and disrupt your plans. It could rain disabling the repairs. Some materials might be unavailable or additional work might be needed. A ready alternate plan can help avoid added inconvenience to you and your family.

If you take the time to plan out your repair work, the process can be smooth and carefree.

Robert Anderson is an owner of Phoenix Roofing Team, a roofing company that has worked on more than five thousand roofs in Phoenix, AZ in the past five years.