How to Choose a Roofing Contractor: 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring

By All For One Roofing

on August 22, 2025

Homeowner reviewing a roofing contract with a professional on a clipboard

Homeowners face a lot of pressure after roof damage — safety, weather, and insurance all add urgency. Knowing the right questions to ask can make the difference between a lasting repair and ongoing problems.

This guide gives a clear interview framework, a verification checklist, and practical tips for hiring a trustworthy roofer. Use it whether you need emergency roofing, help with a storm claim, or a planned replacement.

Problem/Scenario

Roof problems often show up suddenly: a major storm, a persistent leak, or visible shingle loss. In those moments you may be tempted to hire the first contractor who shows up. That can lead to poor repairs, unpaid subcontractors, or denied insurance claims.

Common scenarios:

Missing or torn shingles after a windstorm.
Water stains and active leaks in the attic or ceiling.
Loose flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights.
Full roof replacement after hail or storm damage.

When storm season hits, lead times grow and some contractors focus on volume. A careful hiring process reduces risk and improves results.

Quick Safety Checklist

Before work begins, verify basic safety measures. These items protect you, your family, and the crew.

Fall protection: Are harnesses and guardrails in use? (OSHA guidelines recommend fall protection for roof work.)
Ladder setup: Are ladders secured and inspected?
Jobsite barriers: Is the work area cordoned off from foot traffic?
Debris protection: Are tarps placed to protect landscaping, cars, and gutters?
Daily cleanup: Will nails be swept up and magnets used after work?
Emergency access: Is a clear path to exits and utilities maintained?

If a crew cuts corners on safety, stop the work and ask questions.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Some minor tasks are reasonable for an experienced homeowner. Others require trained professionals.

Do-it-yourself tasks (for experienced homeowners):

Cleaning gutters (on single-story homes with safe ladder access).
Replacing isolated shingles if you understand flashing and underlayment.
Applying small roof sealant patches for minor leaks.

Call a pro when:

You have an active leak that you cannot locate.
The roof slope or height makes ladder work dangerous.
Flashing around chimneys, skylights, or vents is involved.
The damage affects structure or insulation.
You need a permit, insurance claim documentation, or a full replacement.

For emergency roofing after a storm, call a contractor who offers Emergency Services near you. Professionals can provide temporary protection (tarping) and document damage for insurance.

What professionals do on arrival

A reputable roofer follows a predictable, safe process when they arrive.

Initial safety assessment: Check for hazards and secure the area.
Leak location and source check: Inspect attic, ceilings, and roof deck.
Temporary protection: Install tarps or temporary flashings if needed.
Full inspection: Document damage with photos and notes for you and your insurer.
Provide estimate: Walk you through the written estimate and contract items.
Permits and scheduling: Explain permit needs and the proposed start/completion dates.
Damage mitigation: If water is present, recommend steps to dry and prevent mold.
Insurance coordination: Offer to meet with adjusters or provide documentation for your claim.

If a contractor does not document damage or refuses to tarp in an emergency, that is a red flag.

Prevention & Maintenance

Regular maintenance keeps small problems from turning into emergencies.

Annual roof inspection: Check shingles, flashing, valleys, and vents.
Gutter cleaning: Clear leaves and debris at least twice a year. Consider professional gutter cleaning if you have tall trees or multi-story roofs.
Ventilation and insulation: Proper attic ventilation and insulation reduce ice dams and roofing deterioration.
Sealants and coatings: Reapply or inspect sealants around penetrations and along flashing.
Roof cleaning: Remove algae, moss, and debris safely — use a pro for steep or high roofs.
Preventative maintenance plan: Many contractors, including All For One Roofing, offer yearly inspections and maintenance plans to catch small issues early.

Authoritative guidance: The International Code Council (ICC) and NRCA provide best-practice guidance for inspections, ventilation, and roof maintenance.

Costs & Time Factors (what affects price and schedule)

Roofing costs vary widely by materials, roof pitch, local labor rates, and project complexity. Rather than quotes, here are factors that affect ranges and timelines.

Key cost drivers:

Material choice: Asphalt shingles are typically least expensive; metal, tile, and premium materials cost more.
Roof size and pitch: Steeper and larger roofs require more labor and safety measures.
Layering: Removing old roofing adds labor and disposal fees.
Flashing and deck repair: Damaged decking, flashing, or structural repairs increase costs.
Accessibility: Limited access or special safety equipment raises price.
Permit and inspection fees: Local fees vary and are usually passed to the owner.
Seasonality: Storm season increases demand; prices can rise and lead times lengthen.
Insurance claims: Adjuster timelines and supplemental claims may extend total project time.

Typical timelines:

Small repairs: Same day to a few days (depending on emergency and parts).
Moderate repairs: 1–7 days.
Full roof replacement: 1–7 days on the home, plus permit and inspection time; scheduling can be delayed by weeks during storm season.

Authoritative resources: FEMA and state building departments outline permit and inspection steps that affect timelines.

When it’s an emergency

An emergency calls for immediate action. Examples:

Active interior leaks after heavy rain.
Collapsed decking or visible structural failure.
Rapidly spreading roof fire or exposed electrical lines.
Severe storm damage leaving the home exposed.

Immediate steps for homeowners:

Protect people first. Evacuate if there is structural danger or active fire.
Move vehicles and valuables away from affected areas.
Call a contractor offering emergency roofing or tarping.
Document damage with photos and short videos for insurance.
Contact your insurance carrier to report the claim.
If water is inside, consider a licensed water mitigation company to dry and prevent mold.

For safety guidance during disasters, see FEMA recommendations and local emergency management guidance.

Red flags and warning signs

Watch for these warning signs when hiring a roofer:

High-pressure sales tactics: Avoid contractors who demand an immediate signature or push you to sign without reviewing the contract.
Large upfront cash requests: Reasonable deposits are normal, but large cash-only demands are risky.
No written contract: Never hire without a written agreement that lists work scope, materials, price, timeline, and warranty terms.
Lack of proof of insurance: If a contractor cannot provide a COI, do not proceed.
No local address or unmarked vehicles: Storm-chasing contractors sometimes use temporary addresses. Prefer contractors with local presence and local licenses.
No permit handling: If the contractor says permits aren’t needed but the job typically requires them, get a second opinion.
Poor reviews and unresolved complaints: Look at BBB records and online reviews. Multiple similar complaints are a red flag.
Door-to-door claims of “government discounts” or special pricing: Be cautious and verify credentials.

If you see any of the above, pause, ask for documentation, and consider calling your insurer or the local building department.

What a thorough written estimate should include

A clear, line-item estimate protects both you and the contractor. It should be easy to read and include:

Full scope of work: Detailed description of repairs or replacement tasks.
Materials list: Brand, type, color, and product lines (e.g., shingle model, underlayment, flashing).
Material quantities and unit prices: How many bundles or sheets and associated costs.
Labor costs: Hours or lump-sum labor charges.
Permit fees and inspection costs: Either listed or noted as an allowance to be invoiced.
Disposal and cleanup: Dumpster or hauling costs, and who is responsible for final cleanup.
Timeline: Expected start date, milestones, and completion date.
Payment schedule: Deposit, progress payments, and final payment tied to inspection or completion.
Warranties: Clear details on workmanship guarantees and manufacturer warranties, with duration and coverage.
Change order procedures: How changes during the job will be documented and priced.
Signatures: Contractor name, license number, contact information, and homeowner signature line.

Keep the estimate with your other project documents and provide a copy to your insurance adjuster if you are filing a claim.

Understanding warranties vs workmanship guarantees vs manufacturer warranties

Warranties can be confusing. Get everything in writing and read the fine print.

Manufacturer warranty:
- Covers defects in the roofing products (shingles, underlayment).
- Issued by the product maker.
- May require registration and proper installation to remain valid.
- Covers material replacement, sometimes prorated.
Workmanship (contractor) guarantee:
- Covers how the contractor installed the roof.
- Typically covers installation defects, flashing detail work, and related issues.
- Duration varies by contractor; common ranges are 1–10 years.
- Some workmanship guarantees are transferable; ask if they pass to a new homeowner.
Warranty differences to note:
- Manufacturer warranties usually do NOT cover installation errors.
- Workmanship guarantees do NOT cover manufacturing defects.
- Some warranties require maintenance (regular inspections, gutter cleaning) to remain valid.
- Know the remedy: Does the warranty cover labor and materials, or just materials?

Ask the contractor for examples of warranty claims handled in the last year and whether any charges apply for dispatch or service calls.

Local and seasonal considerations

Local codes, licensing, and weather patterns affect decisions.

Regional licensing differences:
- Licensing and contractor requirements vary by state, county, and city. Confirm the exact licensing board for your area.
- Some areas have specialty licenses for solar, metal, or commercial roofing.
When to hire local vs. national teams:
- Hire local for immediate emergency roofing and permit work. Local contractors know code requirements and inspection processes.
- National or large corporate teams can be useful for major commercial projects or warranty-backed national programs, but local presence is crucial for quick emergency response and inspections.
- Avoid “storm chasers” who temporarily move into an area after a disaster without a steady local office.
Seasonal factors:
- Storm season drives higher demand, longer lead times, and sometimes higher costs.
- Winter and cold weather can limit certain roofing materials and slow repairs.
- Hail season increases claims and can bring out unlicensed or underqualified contractors.
Insurance claim nuance:
- Insurers often inspect storm damage. A well-documented inspection from a local, licensed roofer can speed claims.
- Know your policy’s deductible and coverage limits. Contractors who offer to work around insurance or advise you to withhold information may create problems.

FAQ

Q: How much should I expect to pay for a roof repair? A: Prices vary by damage, materials, and region. Small repairs may cost a few hundred dollars. More complex repairs or partial replacements can run into the thousands. Always get at least two written estimates and confirm what is included.

Q: Can I use my insurance to pay for storm damage? A: Often yes. Document damage with photos, keep all receipts, and give your insurer the written estimate. A contractor can help document repairs for the adjuster, but do not sign over control of your claim to a contractor.

Q: How long does a new roof last? A: Lifespan depends on material. Asphalt shingles commonly last 15–30 years; metal roofs and tile can last longer. Proper ventilation and maintenance extend life.

Q: Do I need to be home when work is done? A: You do not always need to be present, but make sure the contract includes clear communication, access instructions, and approved payment arrangements. For emergencies or insurance-related jobs, being present for key meetings is useful.

Sample contract elements and what to watch for

A good contract should include:

Contractor name, business license number, and full contact details.
Scope of work with clear start and end dates.
Materials, brands, and model numbers.
Payment schedule with defined milestones.
Warranty details, including who to contact for warranty service.
Cleanup and disposal responsibilities.
Permit and inspection responsibilities.
Change order process and how extras are approved.

Watch for:

Blank lines in the contract that could be filled after you sign.
No mention of a cleanup plan or disposal fees.
Vague timelines such as “start soon” without dates.

Trust elements: What All For One Roofing provides

When you evaluate contractors, look for clear documentation. At All For One Roofing we prioritize paperwork and safety:

Licensing: We hold the required local and state licenses and can provide license numbers on request.
Insurance: Liability and workers’ compensation insurance are up to date; we provide a Certificate of Insurance to clients on request.
Warranties: We provide a workmanship guarantee in writing and outline manufacturer warranty responsibilities for installed products.
Sample contract elements: Our written contracts include line-item estimates, permit responsibilities, and cleanup plans.
Customer feedback: We maintain references and testimonials from recent clients and follow up on completed jobs.
Industry affiliations: We follow guidance from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and adhere to OSHA safety practices where applicable.
Emergency response: We provide Emergency Services near you, including temporary tarping and emergency inspections during storm periods.

If you ask for these items, most reputable companies will provide them without hesitation.

Verification checklist you can use right now

Ask for license number and verify on state/county site.
Request COI and call the insurance agent to confirm.
Get a written estimate and a signed contract with payment schedule.
Ask for three recent references and call at least two.
Confirm who pulls permits and who will meet the inspector.
Check BBB and NRCA listings for company name and complaint history.
Take photos of the damage before work begins and after work completes.

Closing thoughts

Hiring the right roofing contractor takes a few extra steps, but those steps protect your home, wallet, and safety. Ask the 10 questions above, verify the answers, and insist on a clear written contract. During storm season, expect delays — but also expect clear communication and proper documentation.

If you need immediate help, or want someone to walk through this checklist with you, we can assist. Our team handles emergency roofing, storm damage restoration, roof repair, and full replacements, and we can help with insurance documentation and permit handling.

Call All For One Roofing now — or reach us anytime at 877-787-2812 .