Hiring a roofing company isn’t something most homeowners do often, but when it’s time, it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your home. A quality roof protects your investment, ensures your family’s safety, and can even improve energy efficiency and resale value.
With so many contractors offering roofing services, how can you tell who to trust? The key is asking the right questions before you sign a contract. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or planning a full roof replacement, here are 10 essential questions to ask before hiring a roofing company.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
A reputable roofing company should have all the necessary licenses to operate in your state or city. More importantly, they must carry both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation to protect you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the project. Always ask for proof and verify it with the appropriate licensing authority if needed. In most states, homeowners can also check for this information online through state licensing boards.
2. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience matters. A roofing company with several years of experience is more likely to deliver consistent, high-quality work and have a track record of satisfied customers. While new companies aren’t necessarily bad, they may not yet have the systems in place to handle complex projects or unexpected problems.
Another way to check a roofing company’s experience is by asking if they are certified by any roofing manufacturers. For example, CertainTeed offers the Select Shingle Master certification but only to companies that have proven they have the ability to meet their rigorous standards. Checking for any extra certifications is a great way to ensure you are working with a reputable roofer.
3. Can You Provide Local References?
Ask for a list of recent local customers you can contact. Speaking with homeowners who’ve worked with the company will give you insight into the company’s professionalism, communication, and workmanship. You can also look up reviews online, but direct references provide more personal detail.
Homeowners should also check online review sites like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau. Some complaints are normal, so don’t be wary if the roofing company you are looking at doesn’t have a perfect rating. Instead, check how the company responds to those reviews to gauge communication and professionalism.
4. Do You Provide a Written Estimate?
Verbal agreements aren’t enough. A trustworthy roofing company will give you a detailed written estimate that includes the scope of work, materials, project timeline, and total cost. This helps protect both parties and ensures everyone is on the same page. If the contractor hesitates to put things in writing, that’s a red flag.
5. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?
Most roofing companies offer two types of warranties:
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A manufacturer’s warranty on materials
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A workmanship warranty on labor
Ask what each warranty covers and how long it lasts. A strong warranty shows that the roofing company stands behind its work and that the manufacturer trusts them to install the product correctly.
6. Will You Handle Permits and Inspections?
Depending on your location, roof replacements and major repairs may require permits and inspections. A reputable roofing company will pull the permits for you and coordinate with inspectors to ensure the work meets local building codes. If they ask you to do it yourself, consider that a red flag.
7. What Is Your Project Timeline?
Knowing when the project will start, how long it will take, and what happens if weather causes delays is essential. A good roofing company will provide a clear timeline and communicate with you throughout the project. If you’re told “we’ll get to it when we can,” it may be a sign they’re overbooked or disorganized.
8. What Safety Measures Do You Follow?
Roofing is dangerous work. Ask the company what safety protocols they follow to protect their crew and your property. This includes using fall protection equipment, securing the jobsite, and having insurance in place in case of injury. A professional roofing company should prioritize safety and be willing to talk about it.
9. Do You Subcontract Any of the Work?
Some roofing companies subcontract parts of the job, such as installation or cleanup. While this isn’t necessarily bad, you have a right to know who will actually be working on your home. Make sure subcontractors are also licensed, insured, and held to the same standards as the company you hired.
10. How Will You Protect My Property During the Job?
A quality roofing company will take steps to protect your home, landscaping, and driveway during the project. Ask about:
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How they handle debris and clean-up
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Whether they use tarps or protective barriers
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How they dispose of old roofing materials
Details like these separate the professionals from the rest.
Key Takeaways on Choosing A Roofing Company
Your roof is a critical part of your home’s structure, and hiring the right roofing company is key to making sure it lasts. Don’t rush the process or choose the cheapest quote without doing your research. The right contractor will provide a free inspection, welcome your questions, provide transparent answers, and give you confidence in their work.
By asking these 10 questions before hiring a roofing company, you’ll be better prepared to make a smart, informed decision — and ensure your home is in good hands.