Selecting a Roofing Contractor: How to Choose the Right Roofer

The decision to hire a roofing contractor affects safety, home value, and long-term maintenance costs. This guide on Selecting A Roofing Contractor walks through licensing, insurance, estimates, warranties, materials, and warning signs to help homeowners make informed choices when hiring a roofer.

Topic	Key Questions	What To Verify
Credentials	Is The Contractor Licensed And Insured?	State License, General Liability, Workers’ Comp
Experience	How Many Local Projects Completed?	Portfolio, Local References, Years In Business
Estimates	Are Written Detailed Quotes Provided?	Scope, Materials, Labor, Timeline, Payment Terms
Warranties	What Warranties Cover Labor Versus Materials?	Manufacturer And Contractor Warranties, Transferability
Safety & Compliance	How Is Jobsite Safety Managed?	OSHA Practices, Permits, Cleanup Plan

Why Choosing The Right Roofer Matters

Roof replacement or repair is a major investment that impacts structural integrity, insurance claims, and resale value. Poor workmanship can lead to leaks, mold, and premature failure, causing higher costs down the line. Selecting a reputable contractor reduces risk and ensures code compliance.

Verify Licensing And Insurance

States and municipalities have varying licensing requirements for roofers. Always confirm a contractor’s state contractor license and business registration and ask for current insurance certificates showing general liability and workers’ compensation coverage.

Request the insurer’s contact information to verify coverage directly. Contractors who refuse to provide proof of insurance or present expired documents should be avoided.

Check Experience And Local Reputation

Experience matters for understanding local weather impacts, permitting, and common roof designs. Prefer contractors with multiple years in business and a portfolio of local projects that match the homeowner’s roof type and materials.

Read verified online reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, Google, and industry sites. Contact references and, if possible, visit recent job sites to inspect completed work.

Obtain Detailed Written Estimates

A thorough written estimate clarifies scope and reduces disputes. Comparisons should include material brands, shingle type, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, labor, cleanup, and timeline rather than only total price.

Ask for line-item breakdowns and explanations of any allowances or contingencies. Beware of unusually low bids that omit necessary tasks or use substandard materials.

Understand Contracts And Payment Terms

Contracts should clearly state work scope, start and completion dates, payment schedule, change order procedures, and warranty details. A signed, written contract protects both parties and outlines expectations.

Avoid contractors demanding large upfront payments in cash. Standard practice often includes a reasonable deposit with progress payments and final payment upon satisfactory completion and lien release.

Warranties: Materials Versus Workmanship

Warranties come from both the manufacturer and the contractor. Confirm the length and coverage of manufacturer warranties for shingles and the contractor’s workmanship warranty, and ask whether warranties are transferable to future owners.

Understand the process for warranty claims: who handles inspections, repairs, and costs. Get warranty terms in writing and retain all receipts and product documentation.

Assess Material Options And Energy Efficiency

Material choice affects longevity, appearance, and energy performance. Common options include asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and synthetic membranes. Discuss pros, cons, expected lifespan, and cost of each material with the contractor.

Consider energy-efficient options like reflective coatings or cool roof shingles, which can reduce attic heat and lower cooling costs. Ask about ventilation upgrades to improve roof performance and extend shingle life.

Permits, Codes, And Inspections

Major roofing work typically requires building permits, inspections, and adherence to local codes. Confirm that the contractor will obtain necessary permits and arrange required inspections as part of the contract to avoid code violations and insurance issues.

Homeowners should verify that the contractor will provide inspection reports and final sign-offs upon completion to ensure legal compliance and proper documentation for future sales.

Jobsite Safety And Cleanup

A professional contractor implements safety protocols, secures the site, and protects landscaping. Ask about fall protection, debris nets, roof anchors, and a plan for daily cleanup and final property restoration.

Request a description of how loose nails, shingles, and waste will be contained and removed. Some contractors provide magnet sweeps and tarp protection; confirm these services in writing.

Communication And Project Management

Clear communication reduces misunderstandings and schedule slippage. Choose a contractor who assigns a project manager, provides a written timeline, and offers regular progress updates.

Discuss preferred contact methods and designate a single point of contact. Confirm procedures for unexpected discoveries, such as rot or structural issues, including how change orders will be handled.

Red Flags To Watch For

Several warning signs indicate a contractor may be unreliable: pressure to sign immediately, requests for full payment up front, lack of documentation, poor reviews, and no physical business address. High-pressure sales tactics and multiple recent address changes often signal fly-by-night operators.

Avoid contractors who ask homeowners to obtain permits or who claim “no permit required” without documentation. Also be cautious with door-to-door storm-chaser contractors offering steep discounts after weather events.

Questions To Ask Potential Contractors

• Are You Licensed And Insured? Request copies of documents.
• How Long Have You Been In Business Locally? Ask for local references.
• Can You Provide A Written Estimate And Contract? Ensure line-item detail.
• What Warranties Do You Offer? Clarify labor vs. materials.
• Who Will Be Onsite And Who Manages The Project? Identify the point of contact.
• How Are Change Orders Handled? Learn approval and pricing steps.
• Will You Obtain Permits And Arrange Inspections? Confirm responsibilities.

How To Evaluate Bids And Make The Final Choice

Selecting the lowest bid does not guarantee value. Weigh price, materials, warranty, reputation, communication, and local experience when comparing proposals. A mid-range bid from a reputable company with solid references often offers the best long-term value.

Request clarifications for ambiguous items and ask finalists for a written summary of differences. Confirm availability and estimated start date to avoid extended delays.

Handling Complaints And Warranty Issues

Maintain records of contracts, communications, invoices, and photos to support claims. If issues arise, notify the contractor in writing and allow reasonable time for repairs as specified in the warranty.

If disputes persist, consult the state contractor licensing board, local building department, consumer protection agency, or pursue mediation. Small claims court is an option for unresolved financial disputes.

Checklist For Selecting A Roofing Contractor

Step	Action
Verify	License, Insurance, Business Address
Compare	At Least Three Written Estimates
Inspect	References, Portfolio, Local Reviews
Contract	Detailed Written Agreement With Warranties
Permits	Ensure Contractor Will Secure Permits And Inspections
Payments	Follow A Reasonable Payment Schedule, Obtain Lien Waivers
Closeout	Final Inspection, Cleanup, Warranty Documents

Additional Resources And Where To Verify Information

Homeowners can verify licenses through state contractor licensing boards and check complaints at the Better Business Bureau. Local building departments confirm permit histories and inspection records for the property.

Industry associations like the National Roofing Contractors Association provide best-practice guidance and consumer tips. Manufacturer websites list certified installers for product-specific warranties.

Final Considerations When Hiring A Roofer

The best selection balances cost with proven workmanship, transparent communication, and robust warranties. Investing time to vet contractors thoroughly reduces risk and helps ensure a durable, code-compliant roof that preserves home value.