Questions To Ask Your Roofer

Common questions to ask your roofer

If you are looking for a roofer, you want to make sure you pick the right one.  At Carl’s Roofing, we think we are the right local roofer for you.  However, even if you choose to go with another roofer, we want you to get a quality roof.  So, here are the questions we would tell our friends and family to ask potential roofers.

Are you licensed and insured?

Some questions have no right or wrong answer.  This is not one of them. You want a roofer who is licensed to work in your area. Insurance is also a must.  Your roofer should have general liability insurance, to cover damages to your property or your neighbors. They should also have workers’ compensation, to cover any injuries to their employees while on the job. That is important; if they are not insured, you could be on the hook if someone is injured while working on your roof.

Can I see your insurance certificate?

Do not feel bad verifying insurance.  A few uncomfortable moments before the job begins could save you headaches and money down the road.

What is your legal business name?

You want the legal business name to look up any complaints against them. If a salesperson cannot give you that answer, you may want to look at the company more carefully.

How long have you been in business?

Most people want a roofer with experience.  Of course, a new roofing company may do a great job because they are trying to establish themselves.  If it is a new company, ask some questions about their industry experience.

Has the company done business under other names?

Sometimes you will find a business owner that changes company names whenever they encounter problems.  While these folks may not be honest about their past, it is worth asking the question.  You may also find these former business names if you are checking the BBB or other consumer sites for reviews.

Can you give me local customers as references?

You want to be able to see their work and talk to former customers.  You can always look at pictures, but getting local references means you can see the work in person.

What brands do you use?

Most roofers are going to use one or two manufacturers, and they will offer different levels of shingles. Find out which brands they use, so that you can research products.  If you already know what type of shingles you want, you can see if they work with those products.

Do you use subcontractors?

It is not unusual for roofing companies to use subcontractors.  However, you will want to check out the quality of any subcontracting crews.  Also, find out what jobs are the responsibility of the subcontractor and of the contractor.

Some more roofing questions to consider:

• What steps do you take to protect my yard, home, and landscaping?
• Who is responsible for covering the roof if it rains during the project?
• Who will be my contact during the project?
• Will you do interior inspections after the work is complete?
• How do you handle garbage removal?
• What is the payment schedule?
• Are the drip edges included?
• What technology do you use in roofing?
• Are your shingles hand nailed or nail gunned?
• Can I get a written copy of your warranty?