Hiring a roofing contractor is a big decision—your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Choosing the wrong company can lead to costly mistakes, subpar work, or even scams.
To protect your home and investment, here are 10 essential questions to ask any roofing company before signing a contract.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
A professional roofing company should be licensed, bonded, and insured. A valid license ensures they meet state regulations, while insurance protects you from liability if something goes wrong.
What to do: Ask for their contractor license number and proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
2. What Roofing Materials Do You Offer?
Not all shingles or roofing materials are the same. The right choice depends on budget, durability, and aesthetic preferences.
Common Roofing Materials:
✔ Asphalt shingles – Affordable & weather-resistant
✔ Metal roofing – Long-lasting & energy-efficient
✔ PVC/TPO roofing – Ideal for flat roofs & commercial properties
✔ Cedar shakes – Classic look but high maintenance
What to do: Ask about material options and warranties. A quality contractor should explain pros and cons, not just push the most expensive option.
3. Do You Provide a Written Estimate?
A reputable roofing company should always provide a detailed, written estimate before starting work.
A good estimate should include:
Cost of materials and labor
Expected project timeline
Warranty details
Any potential additional costs
What to do: Get everything in writing and compare estimates from multiple contractors.
4. What Warranties Do You Offer?
A new roof is a major investment, so warranties matter. Look for both:
✔ Material Warranty – Covers defects from the manufacturer (often 25+ years)
✔ Workmanship Warranty – Covers installation errors (usually 5-10 years)
What to do: Ask about both types of warranties and whether they’re transferable to a future homeowner.
5. Do You Have Local References and Reviews?
A company’s reputation speaks volumes. Checking real customer experiences can help you spot red flags.
What to do:
✅ Ask for local references and call past customers
✅ Check Google, Yelp, and Facebook reviews
✅ Look for high ratings with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
6. Do You Use Subcontractors or Your Own Crew?
Some roofing companies hire subcontractors instead of using their own trained team. This can lead to inconsistent quality and accountability issues.
What to do: Ask if the roofers working on your home are employees or subcontractors. If subcontractors, ensure the company supervises their work closely.
7. How Will You Protect My Property During Installation?
Roof replacements can damage landscaping, siding, or windows if proper precautions aren’t taken.
A professional roofing company should:
✔ Cover landscaping and outdoor furniture
✔ Use magnets to clean up nails after work
✔ Protect gutters from falling debris
What to do: Ask about their property protection plan before they start the job.
8. What’s Your Timeline and How Will You Communicate?
You don’t want a half-finished roof sitting for weeks. Clear communication prevents frustration.
What to do:
✅ Ask how long the project will take
✅ Get a point of contact for updates
✅ Ensure they provide a written timeline
9. What Happens if There Are Unexpected Issues?
Sometimes, hidden problems (like rotted decking or structural damage) appear once the old roof is removed. A trustworthy contractor won’t upsell you unnecessarily but will address legitimate concerns.
What to do: Ask how they handle unexpected repairs and what costs would be involved.
10. How Do You Handle Permits and Inspections?
Most roofing projects require permits and final inspections to ensure code compliance.
What to do: Ask if they handle the permit process or if you’re responsible for filing them.
Final Thoughts: Choose a Contractor You Can Trust
A quality roofing company should be transparent, experienced, and customer-focused. At Do It Right Roofing, we take pride in delivering top-notch craftsmanship and honest service.
If you’re considering a roof replacement, we’d love to answer your questions! Drop a comment below or send us a message.
