Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home. A quality installation can last 20-30 years, while a poor job can lead to leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs within months. This guide will show you exactly how to vet roofing contractors and avoid common scams.

1

Verify Licenses and Insurance

Always confirm your contractor has:

  • State roofing license - Requirements vary by state
  • General liability insurance - Covers property damage
  • Workers' compensation - Protects you if workers are injured
Pro Tip: Ask for certificate of insurance directly from their insurance company, not the contractor.
2

Check Online Reviews and Ratings

Look beyond star ratings. Read actual reviews on:

  • Google Reviews (most comprehensive)
  • Better Business Bureau (complaint history)
  • Angi/HomeAdvisor (verified reviews)
  • Yelp (local reputation)

Red flags: Multiple complaints about leaks after installation, poor communication, or unfinished work.

3

Get Multiple Quotes (3-5 Minimum)

Prices can vary 30-50% between contractors for the same job. Getting multiple quotes helps you:

  • Understand fair market pricing
  • Compare materials and warranties
  • Identify outliers (too cheap or expensive)
Average roof replacement: $5,500 - $12,000. Be wary of quotes significantly below this range.
4

Ask About Material Options

A quality contractor should explain:

  • Different shingle brands and grades
  • Underlayment and flashing options
  • Ventilation requirements
  • Warranty differences
5

Understand the Warranty

There are typically two warranties:

  • Manufacturer's warranty: Covers defects in materials (20-50 years)
  • Workmanship warranty: Covers installation errors (1-10 years)

Avoid contractors offering less than 5-year workmanship warranty.

6

Get Everything in Writing

Your contract should include:

  • Detailed scope of work
  • Specific materials (brand, model, color)
  • Start and completion dates
  • Payment schedule
  • Cleanup and disposal details
  • Warranty terms
7

Verify Local Experience

Local contractors:

  • Understand regional weather challenges
  • Know local building codes
  • Have established supplier relationships
  • Are easier to contact for warranty work
8

Watch for Red Flags

Door-to-door solicitors after storms
Pressure to sign immediately
Requests full payment upfront
No physical business address
Quotes significantly below others
No references available
9

Ask for References

Request 3-5 recent references and ask:

  • Was the work completed on time?
  • Was the cleanup satisfactory?
  • Have you had any issues since?
  • Would you hire them again?
10

Never Pay Full Price Upfront

Standard payment structure:

  • Deposit: 10-20% (to secure materials)
  • Progress payment: 40-50% (at midpoint)
  • Final payment: 30-40% (after completion and inspection)

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