Your roof is likely the most expensive component of your home to replace. Hiring the right contractor can mean the difference between a 30-year investment and a leaky nightmare that costs you double to fix.
In the roofing industry, “Storm Chasers” (unlicensed workers who travel to storm-hit areas to make quick cash) are a real problem. They take your deposit and disappear, or do shoddy work that voids your warranty.
So, how do you find a legitimate, skilled professional? Follow this step-by-step guide to vet your roofer like a pro.
💡 The Golden Rule: Never hire the first person who knocks on your door. Always get at least 3 quotes to compare pricing and professionalism.
Step 1: Verify the “Big Three” Credentials
Before you even let someone up on your roof for an estimate, ask to see proof of these three things. If they hesitate, walk away.
| Credential | Why It Matters |
| 1. State License | Proves they are legally allowed to work in your area and have passed competency exams. |
| 2. Liability Insurance | Protects you if they damage your house (e.g., drop a ladder on your car). Ask for a certificate. |
| 3. Workers’ Comp | Protects you if a worker falls off your roof. Without this, you could be sued for their medical bills. |
Step 2: Spotting the “Red Flags”
How can you tell a pro from a scammer? Use this comparison chart to spot warning signs immediately.
| 🚩 Red Flags (Avoid!) | ✅ Green Flags (Hire!) |
| Demands full payment upfront (cash only). | Asks for a deposit (10-30%) or payment upon material delivery. |
| “We were just in the neighborhood” (Door-to-door sales). | Has a local physical office and a local phone number. |
| No written contract, just a handshake. | Provides a detailed written estimate with a breakdown of costs. |
| Offers to pay your insurance deductible (This is illegal fraud). | Helps you navigate the claims process legally. |
| Cannot provide local references. | Happy to provide a list of recent clients you can call. |
Step 3: Questions to Ask During the Interview
When the contractor comes to give you an estimate, don’t just ask “How much?” Ask these critical questions to test their knowledge.
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“Who will be on-site?”
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Good Answer: “We have a dedicated project manager who supervises the crew.”
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Bad Answer: “I sub it out to a crew, I won’t be there.”
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“How do you protect my landscaping?”
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Good Answer: “We use tarps to cover bushes and a magnet sweep to pick up nails daily.”
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“What happens if it rains during the job?”
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Good Answer: “We watch the weather closely and keep heavy-duty tarps on site to cover exposed areas immediately.”
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“Is the warranty from you or the manufacturer?”
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Best Answer: “Both. You get a manufacturer warranty on materials and our own workmanship warranty on the labor.”
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Step 4: Analyzing the Contract
Never sign a generic contract. A professional roofing contract should be detailed. If it’s not written down, it doesn’t exist.
The “Must-Have” Checklist for Your Contract:
Start & End Dates: When will they begin and when will they finish?
Materials Listed: Specific brand, color, and type of shingles (e.g., “GAF Timberline HDZ, Charcoal”).
Scope of Work: Does it include removing the old roof? Replacing rotten decking? Installing new flashing?
Cleanup Procedure: Who is responsible for hauling away the debris? (It should be them).
Payment Schedule: Never pay 100% until the job is done and you are satisfied.
Termination Clause: What happens if you need to cancel the contract?
Conclusion: Don’t Rush the Decision
A new roof is a major construction project. Take your time to check reviews, verify licenses, and read the fine print.
At Permax Roofing, we understand how stressful this process can be. That’s why we have built a network of pre-screened, licensed, and insured professionals. We do the background checks so you don’t have to.
Ready to get started?
Let us connect you with up to 4 trusted roofing companies in your area for free, no-obligation estimates.