Most people wait until something breaks before calling a roofer. That's usually the worst time to shop around. A little research upfront saves a lot of hassle.
What to Look For
You want a crew that shows up on time and speaks plainly. Look for someone who has been in business at least five years — new guys fold fast. Check that they carry both general liability and workers' comp insurance. A real contractor will hand over those certificates without you asking twice. Also look for a physical address, not just a phone number and a van.
Questions to Ask
Ask how they handle leaks around chimneys and vents — that's where most failures happen. Ask what brand of shingles they use and why. A good answer is specific, not just "the good stuff." Ask for a written warranty on both materials and labor. And ask who exactly will be on your roof — some companies sub out the actual work to whoever's cheapest.
Red Flags
Door-knockers after a storm are usually trouble. Anyone demanding a big deposit upfront — like half the total — should make you walk. If they can't show you proof of insurance, run. Vague contracts with no start date or cleanup clause are a trap. And if they tell you your whole roof needs replacing when only one section is damaged, get a second opinion.
How Ratings Help You Choose
Ratings cut through the noise. Look for patterns in reviews, not just the star count. A contractor with a hundred reviews and a 4.5 average is safer than one with five perfect scores. Pay attention to how they respond to bad reviews — defensive or nasty replies tell you everything. Ratings also help you spot the guys who finish on time and clean up after themselves.
Stop guessing — compare local roofers side by side on RatingsNearMe and pick someone who actually earns their stars.