Highlights
- Always hire a licensed, bonded, and insured roofing contractor.
- Choose someone with proven residential roofing experience.
- Check references and online reviews to confirm reliability.
- Look for clear warranties on both materials and workmanship.
- Get a detailed, written estimate and contract before work begins.
- Make sure there’s an on-site supervisor for accountability.
- Expect clear communication about surprises or added costs.
- Contractors should take steps to protect your property and clean up properly.
Hiring the right roofing contractor can make all the difference between a stress-free experience and an expensive mistake. Your roof is one of the most critical parts of your home, and whether you’re dealing with a minor repair or a full replacement, it’s important to work with someone qualified, trustworthy, and transparent. But how can you be sure you’re hiring the right professional?
Knowing the right questions to ask before signing a contract is essential. These questions can help you assess their expertise, verify credentials, understand what to expect, and avoid hidden costs or poor workmanship. Below are the most important questions you should ask any roofing contractor—plus tips on how to interpret their answers and protect your investment.
Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
This should be the very first question you ask. A reputable roofing contractor must be licensed to operate in your state and should be able to provide proof without hesitation. Being bonded offers an additional layer of protection in case the contractor fails to complete the job as agreed, while insurance—both liability and workers’ compensation—protects you from potential lawsuits or damages.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, verifying licenses and insurance is a key step in choosing a contractor for any major home improvement project. If a roofer can’t provide documentation or seems hesitant, that’s a major red flag.
What Experience Do You Have With Residential Roofing?
Residential roofing is different from commercial work. Make sure your contractor specializes in the type of project you need. Experience with shingle installation, leak repairs, roof decking, attic ventilation, and local building codes all matter. Ask how long they’ve been in business and what kind of roofing systems they work with most frequently.
Contractors with more years under their belt are more likely to have handled various roof styles and weather challenges. Experience also means better problem-solving on the job, which can save you both time and money. Don’t just take their word for it—ask for examples or photos of past residential projects.
Can You Provide References or Customer Reviews?
A trustworthy contractor should be more than willing to share references from past clients. This gives you the chance to follow up and hear about other homeowners’ experiences directly. Were they satisfied with the work? Was the crew professional and respectful? Did the job finish on time and on budget?
In addition to references, check their online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. Look for consistent patterns in feedback. According to Angi, strong reviews and high ratings are strong indicators of a contractor’s reliability and professionalism. Be cautious of companies with no reviews or lots of complaints—those are often signs of poor service or even scams.
What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?
A solid roofing contractor should offer two types of warranties: a manufacturer’s warranty on materials and a workmanship warranty on their labor. Material warranties can range from 10 to 50 years, depending on the product, but if the contractor doesn’t install the materials correctly, those warranties can be voided.
Ask specific questions about what’s covered and for how long. Is the warranty transferable to a future homeowner? What happens if the roof leaks within the warranty period? Getting these answers in writing gives you peace of mind and ensures the contractor stands behind their work.
Will You Provide a Written Estimate and Contract?
Never proceed with a roofing job without a written estimate that outlines all expected costs, materials, labor, timelines, and payment schedules. Verbal agreements can lead to disputes later, especially when it comes to pricing or unexpected repairs.
Your contract should include:
- A full scope of work
- Start and end dates
- Material specifications
- Payment structure
- Cleanup responsibilities
- Warranty terms
Review the document thoroughly before signing. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request changes. A good contractor will be transparent and happy to explain everything.
Who Will Be Onsite During the Project?
Some roofing companies outsource work to subcontractors or rotate crews between jobs. Ask who will be physically on your property and whether a project manager or supervisor will be present. Knowing who’s in charge helps ensure accountability and smooth communication throughout the project.
Also, ask how many workers will be present, how long they anticipate the job will take, and whether they’ll need access to power outlets, your driveway, or other parts of your home. The more clarity you have upfront, the fewer surprises you’ll face during the job.
What Is Your Process for Handling Unexpected Issues?
Even with the best planning, surprises can happen during roofing projects, like discovering water damage, mold, or structural issues beneath old shingles. A reliable contractor should explain how they handle these scenarios, including how they assess additional costs and get your approval before proceeding with extra work.
Get clarification on:
- How you’ll be notified of changes
- Whether you’ll receive a revised estimate
- How delays will be communicated
By asking about contingency plans, you protect yourself from sudden budget overruns or timeline changes that aren’t fully explained.
How Will You Protect My Property During the Job?
Roofing can be a messy process. Ask what steps the contractor takes to protect your landscaping, gutters, siding, windows, and other parts of your home. Will they use tarps or plywood to catch falling debris? Do they clean up nails and materials daily? Do they bring a dumpster, or will you need to rent one?
Make sure they also follow safety procedures, both for their crew and for your household. This includes securing ladders, keeping hazardous materials contained, and following OSHA guidelines.
Recommend an Experienced Residential Roofing Contractor With Good Reviews
Ultimately, hiring a contractor with a strong residential track record and solid customer reviews can save you time, stress, and money. Look for companies that specialize in homes like yours, have a long-standing reputation in your community, and can demonstrate successful projects through photos, testimonials, and third-party ratings.
A good contractor won’t just answer your questions—they’ll also ask you questions to understand your needs and offer recommendations tailored to your home and budget. They’ll communicate, show up on time, and follow through on their commitments. These are the signs of a professional you can trust.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away
If a contractor can’t—or won’t—answer the questions listed above, that’s a clear sign to keep looking. You want someone who respects your investment, values your time, and operates with full transparency.
Take the time to interview multiple contractors, compare quotes carefully, and follow up with references or review sites. The goal is to feel confident not just in the price, but in the people doing the work.
By asking the right questions, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth roofing project and long-lasting results.