Choosing the wrong roofer is the #1 cause of premature roof failure. Use these 8 questions to vet any contractor before signing a contract.
A premium shingle installed incorrectly will fail prematurely. A budget shingle installed properly will outperform its spec. The installer is at least as important as the material — and roofing fraud is one of the most common home improvement scams.
1. Are you licensed in this state? Licensing requirements vary — some states require roofing-specific licenses, others just general contractor licenses. Ask for the license number and verify it with your state licensing board.
2. Do you carry liability and workers' comp insurance? Get the certificate of insurance directly from their insurer, not just a copy from the contractor. If a worker is injured on your property without workers' comp, you can be liable.
3. Are you a local company with a physical address? Out-of-town storm chasers disappear after the check clears. A local company has reputation and accountability.
4. What specific shingle product are you installing? Get the brand and product line in writing. "Architectural shingles" is too vague — you want GAF Timberline HDZ or CertainTeed Landmark Pro, not a generic equivalent.
5. What does your warranty cover and for how long? There are two warranties: manufacturer (on materials, typically 25–50 years) and contractor (on labor, typically 1–10 years). Understand both.
6. Will you handle permits? Reputable contractors pull permits. If a contractor suggests skipping permits, walk away.
7. How do you handle unexpected decking damage? You want to hear: "We'll stop, show you the damage, give you a price, and get your approval before continuing."
8. Can you provide local references from the past 12 months? Call them. Ask about cleanup, communication, timeline, and whether they'd hire the contractor again.
Demands full payment upfront. Pressures you to sign immediately. Can't provide insurance certificates. Has no local references. Significantly underbids all other quotes. Suggests skipping permits. Knocks on your door after a storm offering a "free inspection" and immediate repair.
The low-bid trap is real: a contractor who bids 30% below everyone else is either cutting corners on materials, skipping steps in installation, or planning to do substandard work. Get three quotes and be skeptical of outliers on either end.