How to Hire a Roofing Contractor: 7 Questions to Ask
Hiring a roofing contractor is one of the largest home improvement decisions you will make. A quality roof protects everything beneath it, and a bad installation can lead to leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs within just a few years. Before you get a single quote, it pays to understand exactly what to look for in a roofing professional.
Start by verifying that any contractor you consider carries both general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Ask to see current certificates of insurance rather than simply taking their word for it. A roofer working on your home without workers' comp leaves you potentially liable if a crew member is injured on your property — a risk no homeowner should accept.
Licensing requirements for roofing contractors vary by state, but most jurisdictions require some form of contractor license. Ask for the license number and look it up on your state's licensing board website. In addition, check whether the contractor is a manufacturer-certified installer for the shingles or roofing system being proposed — certified installers often unlock better warranty tiers from manufacturers like GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning.
Get at least three written estimates before making a decision, and make sure each one specifies the same scope of work — decking replacement, underlayment type, drip edge, flashing details, ventilation work, and debris removal. The lowest bid is rarely the best value if it skips items competitors include. Ask each contractor for a list of local references from jobs completed in the last two years, then actually call two or three of them.
Before signing a contract, confirm the payment schedule in writing. A reputable contractor typically asks for 10–30% down with the remainder due upon satisfactory completion — never pay more than 50% upfront. Clarify who pulls the permit, since the homeowner is legally responsible if permits are skipped. Use the localto.co directory to find verified roofing contractors near you who have already been screened for licensing and insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify a roofing contractor's license?
Visit your state's contractor licensing board website and search by company name or license number. The contractor should be able to provide this number immediately. If they are reluctant or the number does not match an active license, walk away.
What insurance should a roofing contractor carry?
At minimum, require general liability insurance (at least $1 million per occurrence) and workers' compensation insurance covering all employees and subcontractors. Ask for certificates of insurance naming you as an additional insured on the liability policy.
How much should I pay upfront to a roofer?
Most legitimate contractors ask for 10–30% upfront to cover materials ordering. Be very cautious about any contractor requesting more than 50% before work begins. Never pay the full amount upfront, and hold the final payment until you have inspected the completed work.
What is a manufacturer warranty versus a workmanship warranty?
A manufacturer warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves — shingles, underlayment, and accessories — typically for 25–50 years depending on the product line. A workmanship warranty (also called a labor warranty) covers the quality of installation and is offered by the contractor, typically ranging from 1–10 years. Always get both in writing.