10 Important Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor

May 10, 2023

Taking on a roofing project can be an intimidating process, but taking the time to ask important questions is vital for achieving your desired outcome. It’s essential that you have all of your queries answered before starting – your chosen professional will appreciate it and expect proactive inquiry from you! Here are some ideas about questions to ask your roofing contractor to get started with:

1. Can You Provide References?

While this may seem obvious, collecting references from past clients should be the first step in any roofing endeavor. Getting at least 2-3 references from your roofing contractor is crucial to hiring the right one. By taking this first step in replacing your roof, you can determine if your chosen professional is providing honest answers and quality workmanship that will meet your expectations.

2. Do You Have Proper Licensing and Insurance?

Although some states don’t require roofing contractors to be licensed, it’s best to hire a licensed and insured roofing contractor if possible. Ask the roofing contractor for licensing information specific to your state, city and county, considering requirements differ based on location.

Protect yourself and those you employ by making sure your contractors have the correct insurance in place – ensuring a safe workplace while putting everyone’s mind at ease. For detailed information on state specific requirements, read more here.

3. What Do You Do To Ensure Timely Completion of a Project?

In order to avoid conflict, it’s important to establish project duration with a clear outline in the contract of when work will be performed, and when it will be finished. Hurdles are inevitable when it comes to home service projects, but what contingency plans are in place to address potential obstacles that threaten the job? Specific areas to address include:

  • With the current staff they have in place, will they be able to handle any crisis situations that arise?
  • What is the inclement weather policy?
  • How will they handle supply chain issues?

4. Will you be hiring roofing contractors to complete the job?

When partnering with a roofing contractor, it’s crucial that they fully disclose which duties, if any, are being entrusted to subcontractors and why. This ensures transparency in their operations and allows you to be informed on who is responsible for various aspects of the project. If subcontractors are included in the mix, make sure they also have the proper insurance coverage and licensing to complete the work.

5. What type of warranties do they offer?

Before entrusting a contractor with your home build, make sure to ask them about warranties ! A warranty agreement should outline exactly what is and isn’t covered during the duration of the project. Don’t be afraid to double-check- this could save you lots of headaches in the long run.

6. Are there any specific challenges with the project?

Building projects come with their fair share of surprises. Make sure your potential contractor steers you straight from the start and can anticipate any roadblocks early on, so that things don’t spiral out of control in terms of budget or timeline down the line. Setting expectations and addressing challenges from the start will pay off in the long run.

7. What will you do with refuse material?

When it comes to repairing your roof, the last thing you need after it’s all is said and done is a messy yard filled with refuse material. Make sure that your contractor takes into account proper disposal so they can take care of any debris associated with their job – look out for them bringing along an appropriately-sized dumpster beforehand! That way, their work won’t leave behind its own mess – saving you the hassle of finding someone else to come clean up.

8. How is payment handled?

The payment terms and schedule are important for both you and the contractor you choose to partner with. Most likely, the roofing contractor will want to be paid in increments after the job has started, with the last payment due after the roof is completed and the customer is satisfied. Occasionally, roofing contractors will attempt to get some form of payment or deposit up front, but it is encouraged to hold payment until materials are at least delivered.

9. Do you offer a warranty for your roofing work? Is your work covered by manufacturer warranty?

These questions go hand in hand – a roof warranty typically lasts a year, but some roofers offer longer warranties. When selecting a roof contractor for your project, make sure to ask about their warranties. The manufacturer of the materials will usually provide you with coverage over them – but your roofer’s workmanship also warrants protection! Be prepared for an extended warranty that could add up in cost, so weigh out the benefits carefully before agreeing on any terms.

10. How long have you been in business?

Some background research will be required when finding the right roofing contractor for the job. Their business experience is a good starting point for qualifying questions. Make sure you choose a roofing contractor that is established and has a reputable history in your local area. You’ll also want to get their physical address and full company name to make sure that there are no red flags or fraudulent information prior to signing any agreements.

FAQs:

What is the biggest problem roofers face?

Weather is the number one enemy in the eyes of roofers. Extreme weather conditions make it difficult to install roofs properly, leading to extensions in project timelines.

How many quotes should you get for a new roof?

While the number of necessary quotes varies by person and project, the general recommendation is to collect at least 2 to 3 quotes for your roof replacement.

Does adding a new roof increase home value?

According to studies, a new roof will likely give you a return on investment of about 60-68% spending on your old roof and quality of materials used. A new roof will increase your home’s resale value by about $12,000 based on the national average.

Additional Roofing Resources