7 questions to ask before hiring a roofer

1. What problem are you solving—and what is included?

Ask each roofer to explain what they observed and why they recommend a repair or full replacement. A useful proposal should define the roof areas included, what will be removed, and what will be installed.

• Which slopes, penetrations, flashing, gutters, and low-slope areas are included?
• Is removal of the existing roof included, and how many layers are assumed?
• What work is explicitly excluded from the quoted price?

2. Are you properly licensed and insured for this job?

Requirements vary by location, so confirm the contractor’s status with your state, county, or city—not only from a document shown by the salesperson. Ask for current general liability and workers’ compensation information and find out whether employees or subcontractors will perform the work.

3. Which roofing system are you proposing, and why?

Brand names alone are not enough. Ask for the exact product line, underlayment, starter strip, ridge material, ice-and-water protection, flashing approach, fastener method, and ventilation plan. The components should be compatible and appropriate for your roof and climate.

4. How will hidden damage and change orders be handled?

Roof decking or structural damage may not be visible until tear-off. Ask how replacement decking is priced, who approves extra work, and how you will receive photos or documentation before a change is made.

• Request unit prices for common unknowns, such as decking replacement.
• Require written approval before work outside the original scope begins.
• Ask how weather delays and emergency dry-in work are handled.

5. Who handles permits, inspections, property protection, and cleanup?

Confirm who obtains required permits and schedules inspections. The proposal should also explain how landscaping, siding, windows, driveways, and attic spaces will be protected, plus how nails and debris will be collected at the end of each day.

6. What do the warranties actually cover?

Roofing projects can involve separate manufacturer and contractor workmanship warranties. Ask for both in writing, including their duration, exclusions, transfer rules, registration steps, and the process for requesting service.

7. What are the schedule and payment milestones?

The contract should identify an estimated start and completion window, a payment schedule tied to progress, and the conditions for final payment. Avoid paying the full project amount before the work is complete and you have had a chance to inspect it.

• Get multiple written estimates and ask about large price differences.
• Do not sign a contract with blanks or promises that are only verbal.
• Be cautious of high-pressure, cash-only, or full-payment-upfront demands.