Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Hiring a roofing contractor isn’t something most homeowners do often.

But when the time comes, it can feel pretty overwhelming.

Roof repairs or replacements cost a lot, and mistakes can lead to major headaches down the road. That’s why it’s smart to ask the right questions before signing any contract.

These questions help you spot red flags, compare contractors, and make sure you’re getting quality service.

Here are the key things to ask when hiring a roofing contractor.

Are You Licensed and Insured?

Always start here. A proper license shows that the contractor follows local building codes. Insurance protects you if something goes wrong. If a worker gets hurt on your property and the contractor doesn’t have insurance, you could end up responsible for their medical bills. Ask for proof of both.

A reliable contractor won’t hesitate to show you their paperwork. Be sure their insurance includes general liability and workers’ compensation.

Don’t forget to check if their license is current. It’s also a good idea to confirm this with your local licensing authority. Without a license and insurance, even the lowest quote isn’t worth the risk.

How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience matters in roofing. Contractors who’ve been around for years usually know how to handle unexpected issues.

They’ve worked with different roofing materials and faced all kinds of weather conditions. Plus, they’ll still be there if you need repairs later. A good follow-up question is: Can you show me past projects?

Pictures or case studies are helpful, but reviews from past customers are even better. Look for consistent praise about their work and professionalism. Fly-by-night contractors rarely have a long track record, so steer clear of those who can’t prove their experience.

Can You Provide References or Reviews?

A solid contractor should have plenty of happy customers. Ask for at least three references. Call them and ask about their experience. Did the contractor finish on time? Were there surprise costs? How did they handle clean-up?

You should also check online reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. If you see a pattern of complaints, that’s a major warning sign.

One or two bad reviews aren’t unusual, but lots of them point to a bigger problem. A trustworthy contractor won’t mind you asking around.

What Warranties Do You Offer?

Good contractors stand by their work. Roofing warranties usually come in two parts: one from the manufacturer (for materials) and one from the contractor (for labor).

The labor warranty is key because even top-quality shingles won’t last if they’re installed poorly. Ask how long the warranty lasts and what it covers.

Also, find out if you need regular inspections to keep the warranty valid. Some warranties become void if the HOA obligation isn’t met, so check for that too.

Getting everything in writing protects you if something goes wrong later.

Do You Use Subcontractors?

Some roofing companies hire subcontractors to do the actual work. That’s not always a problem, but it can be if the subcontractors aren’t insured or properly trained. Find out if they use subs and, if they do, ask how they screen them.

Are they licensed and insured? Will the contractor supervise their work? If something goes wrong, you want to know who’s responsible.

Many homeowners assume they’re hiring the company they’re talking to, only to find strangers on their roof. Always ask.

What’s Your Timeline for Completion?

Roofing projects can disrupt your life, so it’s smart to know the schedule upfront. Ask how long they expect the job to take. Will they work every day or only certain days?

What happens if there’s bad weather? You should also ask how they handle delays. Some contractors juggle multiple projects and leave jobs half-finished for weeks. Be clear about your expectations.

You’ll want to know their plan for removing old roofing, installing new materials, and cleaning up afterward. A solid timeline helps avoid frustration.

How Will You Protect My Property During the Project?

Roofing can get messy. Without proper protection, your landscaping, driveway, and siding can get damaged. Ask how they plan to keep your property safe. Will they cover your shrubs and flower beds?

Do they use boards to protect your driveway from falling debris? How do they handle cleanup? A good contractor will use tarps, magnet sweepers for nails, and haul away all the old roofing materials. It’s easy to forget about cleanup when you’re worried about your roof, but it matters.

What is the Payment Schedule?

Never pay the full amount upfront. Most contractors ask for a deposit, but it shouldn’t be more than 20-30% of the total cost. The rest should be paid as the work progresses or after completion.

Ask for a payment schedule in writing. It should list each payment amount and when it’s due. Also, find out what happens if something goes wrong.

Will they fix issues before the final payment? Avoid contractors who demand cash only or won’t provide a receipt. That’s a red flag.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a roofing contractor isn’t just about price. It’s about trust, quality, and knowing they’ll stand by their work.

The questions above help you separate the pros from the amateurs. A little research now can save you from big problems later.

The right contractor won’t dodge your questions; they’ll welcome them. So, ask away. It’s your home, your money, and your peace of mind.