Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Roofer
Essential questions every homeowner should ask before signing a roofing contract.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
Ask to see current copies of their contractor's license and insurance certificates. Verify that insurance includes both general liability (minimum $1 million) and workers' compensation coverage. Call the insurance company to confirm the policy is active.
Without proper insurance, you could be held liable if a worker is injured on your property. Unlicensed contractors may not meet code requirements and often disappear when problems arise.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
Look for established companies with a proven track record in your area. Ask about their history, how many roofs they've installed locally, and whether they've weathered economic downturns. Check how long they've been at their current address.
Roofing warranties are only valuable if the company is still around to honor them. Established local contractors have reputations to protect and are more likely to stand behind their work for years to come.
Can You Provide Local References?
Request references from at least 3-5 recent customers in your area, ideally within the past year. Ask for projects similar to yours in scope. Follow up with those references about their experience, any issues, and whether they'd hire the company again.
References reveal how a contractor actually performs, not just what they promise. Speaking directly with past customers gives you insight into communication, cleanliness, timeline adherence, and problem resolution.
What's Included in Your Warranty?
Understand both the manufacturer's warranty on materials and the contractor's warranty on workmanship. Get clarity on what's covered, what voids the warranty, how long it lasts, and the process for filing a claim.
A cheap roof with no workmanship warranty could cost more in the long run. Quality contractors stand behind their installation because they're confident in their work.
Who Will Actually Do the Work?
Ask if they use their own employees or subcontractors. If subcontractors, ask about their vetting process and insurance requirements. Find out who will supervise the project on-site and how to reach them with questions.
Knowing who's on your property matters for security, quality control, and accountability. The salesperson's promises mean little if the actual crew doesn't deliver.
What's Your Process for Unexpected Issues?
Ask how they handle discovering hidden damage (rotted decking, etc.) during the project. Get their policy on change orders, additional costs, and approval processes in writing before work begins.
Surprises happen in roofing. Understanding the process upfront prevents disputes and ensures you're not pressured into quick decisions when hidden problems are discovered.
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