✅ Roofing Contractor Hiring Checklist
📋 Before You Contact Anyone
- ☐ Research average roof replacement costs for your home size and material type
- ☐ Decide on the material you want (asphalt, metal, tile, slate, etc.)
- ☐ Check if your homeowner’s insurance may cover part of the replacement (e.g., storm damage)
- ☐ Make a list of 3–5 local contractors with good online reviews and verified contact info
🧾 When Getting Estimates
- ☐ Get at least three written estimates with detailed breakdowns (labor, materials, disposal, warranty)
- ☐ Verify they performed an on-site inspection — never accept quotes based only on photos or Google Maps
- ☐ Compare “apples to apples” — same shingle brand, same scope, same underlayment type
- ☐ Be cautious of bids far below average — they often signal shortcuts or hidden costs
- ☐ Ask if they offer a workmanship warranty in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty
🧰 Verify Credentials
- ☐ Contractor holds a current business license (check state or local licensing board)
- ☐ Has liability insurance (minimum $1 million recommended) and workers’ compensation coverage
- ☐ Can provide at least three recent references with photos of completed jobs
- ☐ Has a permanent business address (not just a P.O. box or personal number)
- ☐ Is manufacturer-certified (e.g., GAF Master Elite®, Owens Corning Preferred) if claiming brand expertise
🏠 Before Signing a Contract
- ☐ Everything is in writing — no verbal promises
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☐ Contract includes:
- Scope of work and materials
- Start and completion dates
- Payment schedule (never pay in full upfront)
- Cleanup and debris removal responsibilities
- Permit and inspection responsibilities
- Warranty details (labor + material)
- ☐ Deposit is reasonable (10–30%), not 50% or more
- ☐ You’ve verified permit requirements with your local building department
🚧 During the Job
- ☐ Confirm proper tear-off of old materials (don’t allow “roof-over” jobs unless approved)
- ☐ Ensure flashing, underlayment, and ventilation are replaced or upgraded as needed
- ☐ The crew maintains a clean job site — nails, shingles, and debris are regularly removed
- ☐ Communicate regularly with the project manager or foreman
🧾 After Completion
- ☐ Perform a final walkthrough with the contractor before final payment
- ☐ Verify the warranty paperwork (manufacturer + contractor) is complete
- ☐ Request photos of finished roof and warranty registration confirmation
- ☐ Keep copies of all documents, receipts, and inspection approvals
🚨 Red Flags to Walk Away From
- ❌ Contractor demands full payment upfront
- ❌ No written contract or vague terms
- ❌ Unmarked trucks, no permanent business address
- ❌ Pressures you with “storm-damage” or “limited-time” offers
- ❌ Refuses to show proof of insurance or license