When your roof shows signs of damage—whether it’s a minor leak or visible wear and tear—your first instinct may be to get it repaired as soon as possible. After all, your roofing contractor is the frontline defense for your home, protecting everything and everyone inside. However, rushing to hire a roofing contractor without asking the right questions can lead to costly mistakes, subpar workmanship, and even potential legal issues.
Choosing the right roofing contractor is not just about who gives you the lowest quote. It’s about finding a professional who is experienced, insured, reliable, and committed to delivering quality work. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, aging shingles, or flashing failures, being prepared with the right questions is essential.
Here are the top 7 questions you should ask before hiring any roofing contractor for your roof repair project:
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is arguably the most critical question to ask. Roofing is a dangerous job that requires skill and precision. Hiring an unlicensed contractor can expose you to legal liabilities if something goes wrong.
Why It Matters:
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Licensing proves that the contractor has met the requirements and passed necessary exams to perform roofing work in your state or locality.
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Insurance, especially general liability and workers’ compensation, protects you from being held responsible for property damage or injuries that may occur on the job site.
Follow-Up Tip:
Ask for copies of the license and insurance certificates. Verify their validity with your local licensing authority and insurance company.
2. What Is Your Experience with This Type of Roof Repair?
Not all roofing contractors specialize in every kind of roof or repair. Asphalt shingles, metal roofs, tile, slate, and flat roofs all require different skill sets and materials.
Why It Matters:
Hiring someone unfamiliar with your roof type can lead to improper repairs, resulting in further damage or costly replacements down the line.
Follow-Up Tip:
Ask for photos or references from past clients who had similar repairs done. A seasoned roofer should be proud to showcase their work.
3. Can You Provide a Written Estimate and Contract?
Verbal agreements might seem convenient, but they often lead to misunderstandings or disputes. Always insist on a detailed, written estimate and contract.
What It Should Include:
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Scope of work
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Materials used
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Start and completion dates
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Payment schedule
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Warranties
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Cleanup policies
Why It Matters:
A contract protects both you and the contractor by clearly outlining expectations and responsibilities.
4. What Warranties Do You Offer?
There are generally two types of warranties to consider: manufacturer warranties for materials and workmanship warranties from the contractor.
Why It Matters:
Roof repairs should last. A reputable contractor stands by their work and offers warranties as a guarantee. Without one, you could be left paying for repairs again just months later.
Follow-Up Tip:
Get the warranty details in writing. Know exactly what is covered, the duration, and the process for filing a claim.
5. How Will You Protect My Property During Repairs?
Roofing work can cause collateral damage—from crushed flower beds to damaged gutters or paint splatters. A responsible contractor will have a plan in place to protect your home and clean up thoroughly afterward.
Why It Matters:
Neglecting this question could mean spending extra on post-repair cleanup or damage restoration.
Ask Specifically:
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Will you cover landscaping and HVAC units?
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How will debris be removed?
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Do you use magnetic rollers to pick up nails?
6. Can I Speak to Past Clients or See Online Reviews?
Nothing speaks louder than the words of satisfied (or unsatisfied) customers. A reputable roofing contractor should have a trail of happy clients willing to share their experience.
Why It Matters:
You can learn a lot about a contractor’s punctuality, professionalism, quality of work, and how they handle problems by talking to previous customers.
Where to Look:
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Google Reviews
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Better Business Bureau (BBB)
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Yelp
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Angie’s List
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HomeAdvisor
7. Who Will Be Onsite During the Repairs?
Often, the person who gives you the estimate is not the one who actually does the repair work. Knowing who will be working on your roof and who will supervise the project ensures accountability.
Why It Matters:
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Miscommunication can occur if there’s no consistent point of contact.
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You want assurance that trained workers—not unskilled day laborers—will be handling your roof.
Follow-Up Tip:
Ask whether the company uses subcontractors and, if so, whether those subs are insured and qualified.
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Instincts
Even if a contractor checks all the boxes on paper, something might feel off during your interactions. Were they punctual? Did they answer your questions thoroughly? Were they respectful and patient?
Don’t ignore red flags like high-pressure sales tactics, vague answers, or evasive behavior. Hiring the right roofing contractor is not just a business decision—it’s an investment in your home’s safety and value.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a roofing contractor for repairs is a significant decision that should never be made in haste. Your home’s roof is too important to entrust to someone unqualified or unreliable. By asking these seven essential questions—and listening closely to the answers—you’ll be equipped to make a well-informed choice.
Taking the time to vet your contractor now can save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches down the line. After all, peace of mind begins at the top—right where your roof sits.