Your roof protects everything under it, so this is not the place to cut corners or rush a decision. Before you sign with any roofer, get clear answers to these five questions.
1. Are you licensed and insured for roofing specifically?
Roofing carries real injury risk, so confirm the crew has current liability and workers' compensation coverage, and that they're licensed for roofing where you live. Ask for documents, not just reassurance.
2. What exactly is included in the scope?
There's a big difference between laying new shingles over old ones and a full tear-off down to the deck. Ask whether they'll replace underlayment, flashing, and any rotted decking — and get it in writing. Skipping those steps is how leaks come back.
3. What warranty do I get?
Two warranties matter: the manufacturer's warranty on the materials and the contractor's warranty on the workmanship. Ask how long each lasts and what voids them. A confident roofer stands behind their labor for years, not months.
4. Who handles permits and cleanup?
Most roof replacements need a permit and a final inspection. Confirm the roofer pulls it, and ask how they'll protect your landscaping, dispose of old material, and sweep for stray nails afterward.
5. What's the payment schedule?
Expect a modest deposit with the balance due on completion — never the full amount upfront. Tie payments to milestones, and hold the final payment until you've inspected the finished work and the site is clean.