11 Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor Before You Hire Them

Your roof may be the most expensive home repair you make. According to Forbes, roof repairs average around $1,150, and major repairs can cost up to $8,000. Need to replace your roof? You’re looking at $11,500 on average, and up to $80,000 if you choose an expensive material like copper.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Roofer

With that kind of an investment, you want to make sure you find the right person to repair or replace your roof. Here are 11 essential questions to ask a roofer before hiring them. 

1. What’s Your Full Name and Physical Address? 

You’ll need this information to research their background and look up reviews.

2. What’s Your License Number?

State regulations vary, but you should be able to verify that the license is active and see whether there are any complaints through your state’s Department of Professional Regulation or a similar agency.

3. What Kind of Insurance and Bonding Do You Have?

Roofers should have general liability insurance in case they cause property damage or injuries, as well as workers’ compensation insurance in case a worker is injured on the job. Bonding means you’re protected if the roofer doesn’t finish the project according to the terms of the contract. 

4. Are You a Member of Any Trade Organizations?

Members of organizations like the National Roofing Contractors Association need to meet certain professional standards. 

5. Do You Use Subcontractors?

Many people prefer to hire roofers who don’t use subcontractors since they feel more comfortable knowing the people doing the work are employees of the company they’re hiring. But in some areas, roofers are in short supply, and it might make sense for a company to hire subcontractors. 

It’s a good question to ask so you can get first-hand information. Be sure any subcontractors are trustworthy and have the insurance they need so you’re protected against the costs of any property damage or injuries.

6. What Nearby Roofs Have You Repaired or Replaced? Can I Contact Those Customers?

A drive-by doesn’t let you inspect a roof, but you can see its final appearance. When you’re considering how to choose a roofer, references from local customers who can share their opinions with you should be a priority.

7. How Long Have You Been in the Roofing Business?

This is one of the most important things to ask when getting roofing quotes. Roofer’s Guild reports that the average roofing company only lasts for four years, in part because newer companies don’t have a good plan for getting through the quiet season — that’s winter in most of the U.S. You’ll likely want to hire a company with a proven track record in your area.

8. What Type of Warranty Do You Provide?

It’s typical to have a 25- to 30-year warranty on asphalt shingles and a 2- to 10-year warranty on work quality. Ask if the warranties transfer to the buyer if you sell your home — a roof that’s under warranty can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. Many companies offer a one-time transfer.

9. How Long Will the Job Take?

Getting your roof repaired or replaced is disruptive, so you’ll want an idea of the timeframe. Most roofing companies can replace an average roof in a day and a roof on a larger home in two to three days. A complicated roof or premium materials could take longer.

10. How Will You Protect My Home, Lawn and Landscaping?

Typically, roofers will cover anything in your attic. They will also attach tarps to the roofline and extend them out over any landscaping adjacent to your house and onto the lawn, where they can gather and remove materials. They may use other methods if it’s very hot outside, since tarps can trap heat that could damage plants.

Roofing can cause vibrations, so you may want to take fragile artwork or photos off walls and shelves inside your home until the project is finished.

11. What Do You Do with Your Waste Materials?

Roofers may be able to recycle old asphalt shingles into new shingles or asphalt roads. In any case, you want to be sure that your roofer removes all old and surplus material from your property. Your roofer should also clear any stray nails from your lawn and driveway. They usually use powerful magnets to find and lift them.

Make Sure Your New Roof Is Protected

Your new or repaired roof is a big investment, and storms, fire, smoke, falling trees, snow, ice and other hazards could damage it. Connect with your local Farm Bureau agent to make sure your roof and the rest of your home have the insurance coverage you need.