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.
Licensing & Insurance Questions
Ask for their license number and look it up yourself. Lots of people claim to be licensed but aren't. Same goes for insurance — you want proof of general liability and workers' comp. If they can't show you both, walk. One guy without comp gets hurt on your roof, and you could be on the hook for his medical bills. Call the insurance agent listed on the certificate to verify it's current.
Experience & References Questions
Ask how long they've been in business under their current name. Some guys change company names every couple years to dodge bad reviews. Then ask for three recent local references — not their cousin or their buddy from church. Call those people. Ask about cleanup, punctuality, and whether they fixed problems without fighting. Also ask if they'd hire that crew again. If they hesitate, that's your answer.
Pricing & Timeline Questions
Get at least three written estimates. Don't just look at the bottom line — compare the materials listed. Cheaper shingles cost more in the long run. Ask how long the job will take and what happens if it rains for three days straight. A vague timeline means they're either guessing or planning to juggle multiple jobs. You want a start date and a realistic finish window in writing.
Contract Questions
Read the whole contract before you sign. Look for the payment schedule — never pay more than a third upfront. The rest should tie to milestones or completion. Check for a warranty on both materials and labor. Manufacturers cover defective shingles, but only the crew covers bad installation. Make sure the contract says they'll haul away debris and clean magnetic nails off your lawn. If something's missing, ask for it in writing before you hand over a dime.
Compare local roofers side by side on RatingsNearMe before you commit.