4 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home. It shields everything beneath it from the elements, contributes to your home’s energy efficiency, and plays a big role in your property’s overall value. So when it’s time for a repair or full replacement, who you hire matters just as much as what materials you choose. The roofing industry, unfortunately, attracts its share of fly-by-night operators — especially after major storms — which makes due diligence essential before signing any contract.

Here are five questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a roofing contractor.

1. Are You Licensed, and Insured?

This is the single most important question you can ask, and any reputable contractor should be able to answer it without hesitation. Licensing requirements vary by state, so check what your local jurisdiction requires and verify that the contractor meets those standards.

Equally important is insurance. A roofing contractor should carry at minimum two types: general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. General liability protects your property if something is damaged during the job. Workers’ compensation protects you from being held financially responsible if a worker is injured on your property. Ask for certificates of insurance and call the insurer directly to confirm the policy is active.

2. Do You Have Local References I Can Contact?

A contractor may have an impressive website and glowing online reviews, but nothing beats speaking directly with past customers in your area. Ask for at least three local references from jobs completed in the past year or two, and actually follow up with them.

When you call, ask whether the project was completed on time and on budget, how the crew treated the property, and whether any issues arose after the job was finished — and if so, how quickly the contractor addressed them. A company with a strong local reputation will have no hesitation offering references. One that hedges or can’t produce any is a red flag.

3. What Does Your Warranty Cover?

Roofing warranties come in two distinct forms, and understanding the difference can save you a great deal of frustration down the road. The first is the manufacturer’s warranty, which covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. The second — and arguably more important — is the workmanship warranty, which covers installation errors made by the contractor.

Some contractors offer workmanship warranties as short as one year; others extend coverage for a decade or more. Ask specifically what voids the warranty, how claims are handled, and whether the warranty is transferable if you sell your home. A contractor who stands behind their work with a strong workmanship guarantee is a contractor worth trusting.

4. Can You Provide a Detailed Written Estimate?

Verbal agreements have no place in a roofing project. Before any work begins, you should receive a comprehensive written estimate that outlines the scope of work, the specific materials to be used (including brand and grade), the projected timeline, total cost, and payment schedule.

Be wary of any contractor who demands a large upfront payment — a reasonable deposit is standard, but full payment before completion is a warning sign. A detailed contract protects both parties and gives you a clear benchmark against which to measure the finished job.

Hiring the right roofing contractor takes a little extra effort upfront, but it can mean the difference between a smooth project and a costly headache. Ask these four questions, trust your instincts, and don’t let anyone pressure you into signing before you’re ready. Your roof — and your peace of mind — will be better for it.