Questions to ask any roofer before signing
Updated 2026-07-08
A roof is one of the more expensive parts of a home to repair or replace, and it is also hard to inspect yourself once the work is done. Asking the right questions before you sign protects you from most of the problems that come up later.
License and insurance
Ask for the roofer's contractor license number and check it against your state's contractor licensing board before hiring. Also ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. If a worker is injured on your property and the company is not properly insured, you could be held liable.
Scope and materials
Ask exactly what is included: tear-off of the old roof or an overlay, new underlayment, flashing replacement, and the specific brand and product line of material being installed. Get this in writing. A vague quote that just says 'reroof' leaves too much room for a different outcome than you expected.
Timeline and process
Ask how long the job will take, what happens if weather delays the work partway through, and how the crew will protect landscaping, gutters, and the ground around the house from falling debris. Ask whether they will use a magnetic sweep for nails afterward, a small detail that protects tires, feet, and pets.
Warranty terms
Ask about both the manufacturer's warranty on materials and the contractor's own warranty on their labor and installation, since these are separate. Get the length of each warranty and what specifically it covers in writing, rather than a verbal assurance that everything is guaranteed.
Payment structure
Ask about the payment schedule and be cautious of any contractor demanding full payment upfront before any work begins. A reasonable deposit is normal, but the bulk of payment is typically tied to material delivery and project completion, not paid entirely in advance.
References and past work
Ask for addresses of a few recent jobs in your area, not just photos, so you can see finished work in person if you want to. A roofer confident in their work will not hesitate to share this.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important question to ask a roofer?
Confirming an active license and insurance comes first, since it protects you legally and financially if something goes wrong. After that, get the full scope of work and materials in writing so there is no ambiguity about what you are paying for.
Should I get multiple quotes before hiring a roofer?
Yes. Comparing at least two or three written, itemized quotes makes it easier to spot an outlier, whether unusually low or unusually high, and to see how differently each contractor scopes the same job.
What is the difference between a material warranty and a labor warranty?
A material warranty comes from the manufacturer and covers defects in the shingles, tiles, or other roofing product itself. A labor or workmanship warranty comes from the contractor and covers problems caused by how the roof was installed. Ask about both separately.
Is it normal to pay a deposit before roofing work starts?
A partial deposit is common, but the majority of payment should be tied to material delivery and job completion rather than paid entirely upfront. Be cautious of any contractor who insists on full payment before starting.