Your home’s roof is more than just a covering—it’s your first line of defense against harsh weather, moisture damage, and energy inefficiency. So when it’s time for repairs or a full replacement, hiring the right roofing contractor isn’t just a good idea—it’s absolutely essential. Many homeowners make the mistake of rushing into a roofing project without doing their due diligence, only to regret it later.

Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, aging shingles, or an unexpected leak, asking the right questions can save you thousands of dollars and endless stress. From comparing roofing estimates to verifying a contractor’s qualifications, you need to be armed with knowledge before making that final decision.

Roofing Contractor: What Makes a Good One?

A good roofing contractor isn’t just someone who can swing a hammer. They must be reliable, experienced, insured, and transparent in their business dealings. You’re trusting them with one of the most critical parts of your home—your roof—so anything less than excellence shouldn’t be acceptable.

What sets top-tier contractors apart?

• Clear, written estimates
• Transparent communication
• Positive references and reviews
• Industry certifications
• Comprehensive warranties

When hiring a contractor, you’re not just buying materials and labor—you’re investing in peace of mind.

Why Asking Questions Matters

Before signing on the dotted line, you need to be clear about what you’re getting into. Asking the right questions can:

• Expose hidden fees in roofing estimates
• Prevent low-quality work or unreliable crews
• Protect your investment from fly-by-night operators
• Clarify the timeline and post-project responsibilities

In short, asking smart questions leads to smarter decisions. Let’s dive into the five most crucial questions to ask before hiring your next roofing contractor.

Are You Licensed and Insured?

This is the first and most important question you should ask. Licensing ensures that your contractor meets the state’s minimum requirements for roofing work, including safety, skill, and legal obligations.

Why it matters:

• If they aren’t licensed, they may not be legally allowed to work in your area.
• Insurance protects you in case a worker is injured on your property or your home gets damaged.

What to look for:

• State license number (you can verify it online)
• Proof of liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation coverage

Pro Tip: Some unscrupulous contractors may show outdated or fake credentials. Always verify them through your local licensing board.

Can You Provide References?

Would you hire an employee without checking their references? Exactly. You shouldn’t hire a roofing contractor without doing the same. Ask for at least 3 recent references, and actually contact them.

Questions to ask references:

• Were they satisfied with the work?
• Was the project completed on time and within budget?
• Did the contractor communicate effectively?
• Were there any surprises in the final roofing estimates?

Reputable contractors will be happy to share this info. If they hesitate or can’t provide solid references—run.

What’s Included in Your Roofing Estimates?

A vague roofing estimate is a red flag. You need detailed, line-item breakdowns of:

• Materials (type, brand, warranty)
• Labor costs
• Removal of old roofing
• Cleanup and disposal
• Permit fees
• Contingency for unforeseen issues

Why it’s crucial:
Clear estimates protect you from surprise charges. It also lets you compare bids more accurately—apples to apples.

Bonus Tip: Ask if they’ll honor the estimate or if they include a clause allowing for price changes. A trustworthy roofer will be upfront.

What Warranties Do You Offer?

Not all warranties are created equal. A good roofing contractor will offer:

• Manufacturer’s warranty on materials
• Workmanship warranty on labor

Questions to ask:

• How long are the warranties?
• Are they transferrable?
• What voids them?

Poor workmanship can nullify a manufacturer’s warranty—don’t overlook this!

Who Will Be Onsite During the Job?

Some contractors outsource jobs to subcontractors. While not inherently bad, you want to know who is actually doing the work.

Ask:

• Will the company owner or project manager be present?
• How experienced is the crew?
• Are they employees or subcontractors?

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Hiring a roofing contractor is not a task to take lightly, especially when some are more interested in your wallet than your roof. Be aware of these red flags:

• Vague or verbal-only roofing estimates
• High-pressure sales tactics
• Unwillingness to provide references
• No local office or website presence
• Requests for full payment upfront

If something feels off, trust your gut. A credible contractor won’t shy away from transparency.

Comparing Multiple Roofing Estimates

Never settle for the first estimate you receive. Gather at least three roofing estimates and evaluate them based on:

• Scope of work
• Material quality
• Warranty terms
• Timeline
• Cleanup and disposal

Remember, the lowest bid isn’t always the best. It could mean cutting corners on materials or labor.

Hidden Costs in Roofing Estimates

Be vigilant. Some contractors exclude crucial services to make their quotes appear cheaper. Hidden costs can include:

• Permits and inspections
• Old roof removal
• Flashing or ventilation upgrades
• Property protection measures

Always ask for a written breakdown to avoid nasty surprises.

How to Research Roofing Contractors Online

The internet is your best friend when verifying a contractor’s credibility. Here’s what to check:

• Google reviews and BBB ratings
• Portfolio of completed jobs
• Website professionalism and content quality
• Licensing and insurance verification portals
• Social media engagement and feedback

Look for patterns in reviews—especially how contractors respond to complaints.

Understanding Roofing Materials

Not all roofs are created equal. A knowledgeable roofing contractor should educate you on material options like:

• Asphalt shingles: Most common, affordable
• Metal roofing: Durable, energy-efficient
• Tile or slate: Premium, long-lasting
• Flat roofing systems: Best for low-slope structures

Each material affects cost, appearance, longevity, and warranty coverage.

How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience matters. Established contractors tend to:

• Be more reliable
• Honor their warranties
• Have better supplier relationships
• Know local building codes

Ask how long they’ve operated under their current business name. Watch for newly registered LLCs posing as experienced pros.

Are You Local to the Area?

Hiring a local contractor like Blue Cannon Construction has its perks:

• Better understanding of regional roofing needs
• Easy access to past projects for review
• Faster response in emergencies
• Accountability—you know where to find them!

Out-of-town storm chasers may vanish after cashing your check.

What Safety Measures Do You Follow?

Roofing is dangerous. A reliable contractor must:

• Equip workers with safety gear
• Follow OSHA regulations
• Carry liability and workers’ comp insurance
• Use fall protection systems

Ask for their safety policy—it shows professionalism and protects you from liability.

How Soon Can You Start?

Urgency is understandable, but good roofers are rarely idle. Be cautious if a contractor is available immediately—it could indicate lack of demand due to poor service.

Instead, ask:

• What’s your typical lead time?
• Can you accommodate emergency repairs?
• What factors could delay the start date?

Balance speed with reputation.

What Payment Schedule Do You Require?

Avoid any contractor asking for full payment upfront. A fair schedule may look like:

• 10-15% deposit
• 40% after material delivery
• 50% upon completion and inspection

Ensure all terms are in the contract to protect both parties.

Understanding Project Timeline

Misaligned expectations about project length can cause tension. Clarify:

• Estimated start and end dates
• Daily work hours
• Potential weather delays
• Consequences for missing deadlines

Transparency upfront leads to smoother execution.

What Type of Roofing Do You Specialize In?

Specialization = expertise. Whether it’s asphalt shingles, flat roofs, or metal panels, your contractor should have a proven track record with your roof type.

Ask for:

• Photos of past similar jobs
• Training certifications
• Manufacturer endorsements

Don’t let your home be their practice run.

What Happens If It Rains Mid-Project?

Mother Nature can throw curveballs. Ask how your contractor handles bad weather:

• Will they tarp exposed areas?
• Will they reschedule promptly?
• Are delays covered in the contract?

A smart contractor prepares for contingencies.

How Will You Protect My Property?

Roofing is messy. A responsible roofing contractor should ensure:

• Tarps cover landscaping
• Dumpsters don’t damage driveways
• Attic is sealed from dust/debris
• Magnetic sweepers remove nails from your lawn

Protection shows respect—for your home and your trust.

How Do You Handle Cleanup?

A clean worksite reflects a professional attitude. Make sure cleanup includes:

• Daily debris removal
• Final site walk-through
• Disposal of old materials
• Nail-sweeping with magnets

Don’t get left with a mess—and a handful of nails in your yard.

Will You Pull Permits?

In most cities, roofing jobs require permits. The contractor should:

• Know which permits are needed
• Handle the paperwork
• Include the cost in your roofing estimate

Unpermitted work can cause legal trouble and insurance issues down the line.

What Certifications Do You Hold?

Look for contractors who are:

• GAF Master Elite
• CertainTeed Select ShingleMasters
• Owens Corning Preferred Contractors

These titles mean better warranties and vetted skills.

Signs of a Trustworthy Roofing Contractor

To sum up, trust signals include:

• Clear written estimates
• Proof of license and insurance
• Consistent references
• Warranties and certifications
• Local presence and reputation

Blue Cannon Construction checks all these boxes—your home is in capable hands.

The Role of Written Contracts

Never start without a written contract. It should include:

• Scope of work
• Timeline
• Materials and brands
• Total cost and payment terms
• Warranty info
• Signatures of both parties

It’s your protection against misunderstandings or disputes.

Common Roofing Myths Busted

• Myth: “All shingles are the same.”
  Reality: Material and brand matter.
• Myth: “If the roof isn’t leaking, it’s fine.”
  Reality: Small issues can worsen silently.
• Myth: “Any handyman can do it.”
  Reality: Roofing requires specialized skills and tools.

Educate yourself, and don’t fall for outdated beliefs.

FAQs

How do I verify a roofing contractor’s license?
Check with your local state contractor licensing board online. Most have searchable databases.

How many roofing estimates should I get?
Aim for at least 3 to compare pricing, materials, and services effectively.

What’s a fair price for a new roof?
It depends on size, materials, and location. Ask for detailed, written estimates for clarity.

Can I finance my roof project?
Many roofing companies offer financing options. Ask about plans before starting work.

How long does a roof replacement usually take?
Typically 1–3 days, depending on roof size and weather conditions.

Do I need to be home during the roof installation?
Not necessarily, but being available by phone is helpful in case of questions or updates.

Conclusion

Choosing the right roofing contractor isn’t just about the best price—it’s about confidence, clarity, and protection. By asking these five key questions—and many of the others we’ve outlined—you can separate the pros from the posers.

Whether you’re comparing roofing estimates, vetting credentials, or trying to avoid costly surprises, this guide gives you the tools you need to make an informed decision.

If you’re in search of a licensed, and locally trusted roofing company, Blue Cannon Construction is ready to answer every question you have—transparently and professionally.