Hiring a roofer is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make. Your roof protects your entire home from the elements, so choosing the right professional ensures your investment is secure, durable, and built to last. Unfortunately, not all roofing companies offer the same level of quality or reliability, and hiring the wrong contractor can lead to poor workmanship, unexpected costs, and repeated roof repairs down the line. To avoid these issues, it’s crucial to know what to look for before signing a contract.
Below is a detailed guide on everything you should check before hiring a roofer.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
The first and most critical step is to confirm that your roofer is properly licensed and insured. Roofing work is dangerous and highly technical, and licensing ensures the contractor has met state or local requirements for training and skill.
You should verify:
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State or local roofing license
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General liability insurance
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Workers’ compensation coverage
Insurance protects you from legal and financial responsibility if an accident occurs on your property. If your roofer cannot provide proof of insurance, consider it a major red flag.
Check Experience and Specialization
Not all roofers have the same experience or background. Some specialize in repairs, others in full installations, and some focus on specific roofing types such as metal, slate, or flat roofs.
Before hiring, ask:
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How long have you been in business?
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Do you have experience with my roof type?
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How often do you handle roof repairs?
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Are your employees trained, or do you use subcontractors?
A roofer with extensive experience is more likely to complete the job efficiently and correctly.
Look for Reviews and References
Online reviews and customer testimonials provide insight into a company’s performance and reliability. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to see what past customers have to say.
You should also ask the roofer for direct references. Speaking with previous clients allows you to ask:
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Did the roofer stay within budget?
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Was the work completed on time?
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Were there any unexpected issues?
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Would you hire them again?
These firsthand experiences are invaluable when determining whether a roofer is trustworthy.
Request a Detailed Written Estimate
A legitimate roofing contractor will provide a written estimate that outlines:
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Cost of materials
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Labor charges
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Scope of work
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Timeline for completion
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Cleanup responsibilities
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Warranty information
Avoid contractors who offer vague verbal estimates or pressure you into signing quickly. A transparent, detailed estimate protects you from hidden fees and ensures both parties understand the project’s scope.
Understand Their Warranty Options
Warranties are crucial because roofing is a long-term investment. Reputable contractors typically offer two types of warranties:
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Manufacturer’s warranty for materials
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Workmanship warranty for installation quality
Make sure you understand the duration, what’s covered, and any conditions required to maintain the warranty. A roofer unwilling to offer a workmanship warranty is likely not confident in their own labor.
Confirm They Use Quality Materials
Roofing materials vary widely in durability, lifespan, and cost. Ask your contractor which products they use and why. High-quality shingles, flashing, underlayment, and ventilation components help prevent future roof repairs and extend your roof’s lifespan.
Questions to ask include:
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Which brands do you recommend?
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Are the materials energy-efficient?
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Do they meet local building codes?
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Can I see product samples?
A professional roofer will be transparent and knowledgeable about their material choices.
Ask About Their Safety Practices
Roofing is inherently dangerous, so safety protocols are essential. Contractors should follow OSHA regulations and use proper safety equipment, such as harnesses, stabilized ladders, and protective gear.
You can ask:
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What safety precautions do you take?
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Are your workers trained in fall protection?
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Do you carry safety certifications?
A roofer committed to safety is far more likely to complete high-quality, incident-free work.
Get Clarity on the Project Timeline
Understanding how long your roofing project will take helps you plan around weather, noise, and home access.
Discuss:
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Start date
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Estimated completion date
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Potential delays (e.g., weather or supply shortages)
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How many workers will be on-site
A reputable roofer provides clear, realistic timelines and communicates any changes promptly.
Review Their Cleanup Procedures
Roofing jobs create debris such as old shingles, nails, packaging materials, and scrap pieces. Before signing a contract, ask how cleanup is handled.
Most professional roofers will:
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Use tarps to protect landscaping
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Sweep and remove debris
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Run magnetic rollers to pick up nails
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Haul away old roofing materials
Proper cleanup prevents injuries and keeps your property looking its best.
Check for Local Knowledge
Local roofers have a significant advantage because they understand the area’s climate, weather patterns, and building codes. A contractor familiar with local regulations is more capable of preventing future roof repairs caused by improper installation.
Local contractors also tend to have:
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Faster response times
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Stronger community reputations
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Better relationships with material suppliers
Choosing someone who knows your area ensures the work meets your region’s unique needs.
Evaluate Communication Skills
Clear communication is essential for a smooth roofing project. Pay attention to how responsive, professional, and transparent the roofer is during initial conversations.
Ask yourself:
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Do they answer questions clearly?
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Are they upfront about pricing and processes?
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Do they return calls promptly?
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Are they respectful and professional?
Good communication is a strong indicator of good customer service and reliable workmanship.
Avoid Storm Chasers and High-Pressure Sales Tactics
After major storms, some out-of-town contractors—known as “storm chasers”—try to take advantage of homeowners. These companies often offer quick fixes, ask for large upfront payments, and disappear after doing poor-quality work.
Be cautious of roofers who:
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Knock on your door unsolicited
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Pressure you into immediate decisions
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Cannot provide a physical address
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Refuse to show insurance or licensing
Always choose a reputable, established local company.
Hiring a roofer is an important decision that directly affects your home’s safety and value. By verifying licensing, reviewing references, understanding warranties, and evaluating communication and professionalism, you can ensure you hire the right contractor. Thorough research protects you from poor workmanship, unnecessary expenses, and repeated roof repairs—and it ensures your roofing investment delivers long-lasting protection and peace of mind.
