HireContractor
ElectricianPlumberHVAC ContractorRoofing ContractorPainting ContractorWater Damage RestorationFoundation RepairConcrete ContractorFence ContractorFlooring ContractorLandscaping ContractorSolar InstallerSiding ContractorWindow ContractorMold RemediationGarage Door ContractorAll 42 Trades →

Roofing Contractor Checklist: 10 Questions Before You Sign

Roofing is one of the most expensive home repairs, and it's also one where the quality of installation matters more than the quality of materials. A $15,000 roof installed incorrectly will fail in five years, while a properly installed roof using mid-range materials can last 30. Storm chasers and fly-by-night roofers flood the market after every hailstorm, making it critical to vet contractors before signing anything.

10 QuestionsPrintable ChecklistAvg Cost: $300 - $12,000 per job

Questions to Ask

1Do you recommend a full tear-off or an overlay, and why?

Why It Matters

An overlay (installing new shingles over old ones) costs less upfront but hides underlying damage, adds weight to the structure, and can void manufacturer warranties. Most building codes limit roofs to two layers.

Red Flag

They recommend an overlay without inspecting the decking, or they push a tear-off without explaining why it's necessary for your situation.

Pro Tip

A full tear-off is almost always the better long-term investment. It allows inspection of the decking, replacement of damaged sheathing, and proper installation of underlayment and ice-and-water shield.

2What is your flashing approach for valleys, chimneys, walls, and penetrations?

Why It Matters

Most roof leaks originate at flashing points, not in the field of the roof. Proper step flashing, counter flashing, and valley treatment are what separate a roof that leaks from one that doesn't.

Red Flag

They plan to reuse existing flashing, or they use caulk as a primary waterproofing method at transition points.

Pro Tip

Ask specifically about step flashing at sidewalls, counter flashing at chimneys, and whether they use open or closed valleys. New flashing should be installed at every penetration during a reroof.

3What underlayment and ice-and-water shield will you use, and where will you install it?

Why It Matters

Underlayment is the waterproof barrier between your shingles and decking. Ice-and-water shield at eaves, valleys, and penetrations prevents damage from ice dams and wind-driven rain.

Red Flag

They plan to use 15-lb felt (the cheapest option) everywhere, or they skip ice-and-water shield to save money.

Pro Tip

Synthetic underlayment outperforms felt in durability and water resistance. Ice-and-water shield should extend at least 24 inches past the interior wall line at eaves, and should line all valleys.

4Are you a manufacturer-certified installer, and what warranty will I receive?

Why It Matters

Manufacturer certifications (GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Preferred, CertainTeed SELECT) mean the contractor has met training, insurance, and quality standards. Certified installers can offer extended warranties that cover both materials and workmanship.

Red Flag

They claim certification but cannot tell you the specific warranty tier you'll receive, or they are not certified by the brand they're installing.

Pro Tip

A 50-year manufacturer warranty through a certified installer covers both the shingles and the installation labor. A standard warranty without certification typically covers only the shingles.

5How do you handle decking replacement if you find rot or damage after tear-off?

Why It Matters

Damaged roof decking is only visible after shingles and underlayment are removed. Without a pre-agreed price for decking replacement, you'll face a high-pressure upsell while your roof is open to the sky.

Red Flag

They have no set price per sheet for decking replacement, or they pressure you to decide immediately without time to think.

Pro Tip

Get a per-sheet price for plywood or OSB decking replacement written into the contract before work begins. A typical price is $75-$150 per 4x8 sheet installed.

6What is your ventilation plan for the attic?

Why It Matters

Proper attic ventilation extends shingle life by reducing heat buildup in summer and moisture accumulation in winter. Inadequate ventilation can void manufacturer warranties and cause premature shingle failure.

Red Flag

They don't mention ventilation at all, or they plan to install a ridge vent without ensuring adequate soffit intake.

Pro Tip

The standard is 1 square foot of net free area ventilation per 150 square feet of attic space (1:150 ratio), with balanced intake and exhaust. Ridge vent with soffit vents is the most effective combination.

7Do you carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance, and what are your limits?

Why It Matters

Roofing has one of the highest injury rates of any trade. If an uninsured worker falls off your roof, you could be held liable for their medical bills and lost wages.

Red Flag

They claim workers' comp isn't necessary because they use subcontractors, or they cannot provide a current certificate of insurance.

Pro Tip

Request a certificate of insurance before any work begins. Call the insurance company to verify coverage is active. Minimum recommended limits: $1M general liability, $500K workers' comp.

8How do you protect my property during the project -- landscaping, siding, windows, and gutters?

Why It Matters

Roofing debris damages landscaping, dents siding, and breaks windows. Nails left in the driveway puncture tires. A professional roofer has a specific protection plan.

Red Flag

They have no plan for property protection, or they claim damage is your responsibility under the contract.

Pro Tip

Look for tarps on landscaping, magnetic nail sweeps of the yard and driveway, plywood protection for AC units, and careful removal of debris away from the house perimeter.

9What is your crew size, and how long will the project take?

Why It Matters

An undersized crew extends the project, leaving your home exposed to weather longer. A crew that's too large can rush the work and cut corners. For a typical residential roof, 4-8 workers is normal.

Red Flag

They send one or two workers for a full roof replacement, or they cannot commit to a timeline.

Pro Tip

Most residential reroof projects should complete in 1-3 days. Ask about their contingency plan for rain -- will they tarp the roof if they can't finish in one day?

10What happens if there's a leak within the first year after installation?

Why It Matters

A leak shortly after installation usually indicates an installation defect rather than a material failure. You need clarity on who responds, how quickly, and at what cost.

Red Flag

They have no formal warranty response process, or the contract limits their liability to repairing only the leak point without addressing consequential water damage.

Pro Tip

The contractor should offer a workmanship warranty of at least 5 years, with a commitment to respond to leak reports within 48 hours and repair at no cost.

Bonus Tips for Hiring a Roofing Contractor

  • Never pay more than 30% upfront. A typical payment schedule is 30% at contract signing, 40% at material delivery, and 30% upon completion and your final inspection.
  • Ask your homeowner's insurance agent to review the contractor's insurance certificate. Your agent can confirm coverage is adequate and current.
  • If a contractor shows up unsolicited after a storm, offering free inspections and help filing insurance claims, proceed with extreme caution. Storm chasing is the most common roofing scam.
  • Take photos of your roof, gutters, and property before work begins. This documentation protects you if there's a dispute about pre-existing damage.

Find Licensed Roofing Contractors Near You

Browse verified roofing contractor contractors in your area. Listings include license numbers and customer reviews where available.

Search Roofing ContractorsRoofing Contractor Directory

More Roofing Contractor Resources

Roofing Contractor DirectoryBrowse all roofing contractor contractorsRoofing Contractor Cost GuideAverage pricing: $300 - $12,000 per jobAll Hiring GuidesChecklists for all 42 trades

Related Trade Guides

Gutter ContractorSiding ContractorPainting Contractor
Get Free Quotes