Hiring a Roofing Contractor: Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask

When water drips from your ceiling or a storm leaves shingles scattered across your lawn, panic sets in fast. Your roof is your home’s helmet—it shields your family, your possessions, and your peace of mind. But when it’s compromised, the decisions you make in the next 48 hours can echo for years.

Hiring a roofing contractor isn’t just about plugging a leak or swapping a few shingles. It’s about protecting your home from the unexpected, the expensive, and the unsafe. At BLH Roofing, we know how overwhelming the process can seem. Here’s how to make sure you get it right—no second guessing required.

Credentials and Insurance to Verify 🛡️

Would you let someone fly your plane if they didn’t have a license? The same logic applies to your roof. Before you even consider a bid, make sure your roofing contractor is playing by the rules.

• License: Ask to see their state or local license. Not just a number—an actual, current certificate.
• Insurance: Confirm liability insurance and workers’ compensation. This shields you from liability if an accident happens on your property.
• Bonded: A bond acts as a safety net. If the job goes sideways, you’re covered for incomplete or faulty work.
• Permits: Verify that the contractor will handle all necessary permits. Building codes are serious business (see guidelines by the International Code Council).

Tip: Write it all down. Take photos or copies to keep in your project folder.

Key Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor

Think of this as your home’s job interview panel. Don’t be afraid to dig deep. The right contractor welcomes tough questions.

1. How much experience do you have with my type of roof?

Not all roofs are created equal. Metal roofing, shingle roofing, tile, and flat roofs each have their quirks. Ask:

• How many similar roofs have you installed or repaired?
• Do you have references for this specific material?

2. What materials do you recommend, and why?

Roofing isn’t one-size-fits-all. A seasoned contractor will explain the pros and cons of each option—whether it’s asphalt shingles, metal, or eco-friendly options.

• Will you use manufacturer-recommended products?
• How will you address chimney flashing or other complex features?

3. What does your warranty cover?

Get clear on:

• Workmanship warranty length and what’s included.
• Manufacturer warranties for materials.
• What voids a warranty?

4. What’s the project timeline?

A reputable company should provide a realistic schedule.

• When will work begin?
• How long will it take?
• What happens if there’s a weather delay?

5. How will you protect my property?

Roofing is messy. Ask about:

• Steps to protect landscaping, siding, and driveways.
• Debris and waste removal.
• Safety protocols for your family and pets.

6. Who will be on-site?

• Will you use subcontractors or in-house crews?
• Who is my point of contact for questions?

Bonus: Ask for recent photos of completed jobs, especially those with features like skylight installation, downspout repair, or gutter cleaning.

How to Compare Roofing Estimates

Not all estimates are apples-to-apples. Some are apples to oranges—others, apples to empty promises.

• Breakdown of costs: Labor, materials, permits, waste removal.
• Materials listed by brand and type: Don’t accept “miscellaneous supplies.”
• Details on roof flashing, sealants, and coatings: These matter for weatherproofing.
• Timeline: Start, end, and contingencies for delays.
• Payment schedule: Never pay in full upfront.

Practical tip: If a bid is much lower than others, something’s missing. It might be insurance, quality materials, or even basic safety standards.

Signs of a Reputable Roofing Company 👍

You want a team you’d trust with your house keys. Look for:

• Strong local reputation: Ask neighbors or check reviews on unbiased platforms.
• Open communication: Answers questions directly—no runaround.
• Physical address and contact info: Beware the company with only a P.O. box or cell number.
• Detailed, written contract: Outlines scope, costs, materials, and timeline.
• Ongoing training and certifications: For example, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training.
• Transparency on eco-friendly options: Willing to discuss sustainable materials and recycling.

Red Flags: What to Watch Out For

Some contractors operate like magicians—now you see them, now you don’t. Here’s what should make you pause:

• Unlicensed or uninsured: Major risk to your home and wallet.
• No written contract: Verbal agreements don’t hold up if things go wrong.
• Vague estimates: “Miscellaneous charges” are an invitation to surprise fees.
• High-pressure sales tactics: You shouldn’t be rushed into signing.
• No referrals or reviews: A trail of satisfied customers is a must.
• Requests for full payment upfront: Reputable companies use milestones.

Why Proper Vetting Matters for Your Safety and Roof Health

Hiring a contractor is a bit like choosing a surgeon. The wrong move can cost you much more than money—it can mean leaks, mold, structural damage, or even fire risks from poor ventilation and insulation.

Roofing work must follow building codes (see National Roofing Contractors Association guidelines) and manufacturer instructions. Shortcuts can void warranties or cause insurance headaches. If your contractor fumbles chimney flashing or downspout installation, small problems can snowball into big ones.

Protect your investment. Protect your family. It’s worth taking the time.

Practical Safety Checklist for Homeowners

Before signing, run through this list:

• Is the contractor licensed and insured?
• Did you get a written estimate and contract?
• Are all materials and methods clearly described?
• Is the timeline realistic?
• Will they pull permits and coordinate inspections?
• Who is your on-site contact?
• What’s the warranty coverage—labor and materials?
• How will your property be protected?

Stick this list on your fridge as a reminder.

Comparing DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Replacing a shingle might seem doable on a sunny Saturday. But when it comes to full roof replacement, chimney flashing near you, or storm damage restoration, DIY can be risky.

Pros bring:

• Safety equipment and training.
• Up-to-date building code knowledge.
• Years of hands-on experience.
• Access to better materials and bulk pricing.
• Insurance coverage in case of accidents.

Homeowners without training risk injury, code violations, and poor workmanship. For anything beyond a minor repair, it’s wise to call a pro.

What Pros Do On Arrival

Expect the BLH Roofing team, or any reputable contractor, to:

• Inspect the roof, attic, and gutters for hidden damage.
• Check ventilation and insulation.
• Assess structural integrity and look for rot or leaks.
• Discuss findings in plain language.
• Outline next steps, timelines, and expected disruptions.

Transparency is key. You should never feel left in the dark.

Prevention & Maintenance: Your Roof’s Best Friends

A well-maintained roof can outlast the calendar. Consider:

• Annual inspections, especially after major storms.
• Regular gutter cleaning and downspout repair.
• Timely leak repair, even for tiny drips.
• Preventative maintenance, like sealing and coatings.

Neglect is a roof’s worst enemy. The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends at least one professional inspection a year.

Costs & Time Factors (Ranges, Not Quotes)

Roofing costs are like weather—variable and sometimes surprising. Factors include:

• Roof size and pitch.
• Material type (shingle, metal, tile, etc.).
• Complexity (chimneys, skylights, valleys).
• Tear-off vs. overlay.
• Local labor rates and code requirements.

Timelines range from one day for minor repairs to a week or more for full replacement or commercial roofing. Weather can add delays, especially in stormy seasons.

When It’s an Emergency

Storm damage, sudden leaks, or severe structural issues can’t wait. BLH Roofing offers emergency roofing services designed to:

• Tarp and stabilize the roof to prevent further damage.
• Assess and document damage for insurance.
• Prioritize safety for your family and belongings.

Act fast, but don’t skip the vetting process—even in a pinch.

FAQ

Q: How do I know if my roof really needs replacement, or just repair?
A: If your roof is over 20 years old, has widespread leaks, missing shingles, or visible sagging, replacement might be needed. For a few isolated issues, repairs may suffice. A professional inspection is the best way to know.

Q: Can I stay home during the roofing project?
A: Usually, yes. There will be noise and some mess, but reputable contractors keep disruption minimal. Let your contractor know about pets or access concerns.

Q: Are eco-friendly roofing options available for residential homes?
A: Yes. From cool roof shingles to metal roofing with recycled content or green sealants and coatings, there are sustainable choices. Ask your contractor what’s best for your climate and house.

Local and Seasonal Considerations

Roofing is a race against the elements. In colder climates, frozen shingles are brittle and dangerous to install. In hot areas, midday work can be hazardous for crews. Most roofing is best done in mild, dry weather—but emergency repairs can be tackled year-round.

If storms are common where you live, ask about storm damage restoration services and preventative upgrades, like reinforced roof flashing or improved gutter installation. Planning ahead can save headaches (and dollars) when the next big storm rolls in.

Choosing the right roofing contractor is more than a checklist—it’s a safeguard for your home, your budget, and your peace of mind. Ask the tough questions, demand clear answers, and trust your instincts.

Call BLH Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  877-748-7294 .