Roofer Hiring Guide: Powerful Questions to Ask Before You Sign the Contract

When it comes to protecting your home, your roof is one of the most critical components. Whether you're dealing with a leak, storm damage, or a full replacement, hiring the right roofer can make or break the outcome. But with so many contractors out there, how do you choose the right one?

The answer is simple: ask the right questions.

A qualified roofer will not only provide quality workmanship but will also give you peace of mind throughout the entire process. Before you sign any contract or commit to a roofing company, take time to interview them thoroughly. Below are 7 powerful questions every homeowner should ask a prospective roofer.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This is non-negotiable. A professional roofer should have the proper licensing required by your state or local jurisdiction. Equally important is insurance—both liability and workers’ compensation. This protects you in case of accidents, property damage, or injuries on your property.

Tip: Ask to see their certificates and verify them with your local licensing board or insurance provider.

2. Can You Provide Local References?

Reputation matters. A trustworthy roofer should have no problem providing references from past clients in your area. Contact at least two or three of them to ask about their experience, the quality of the work, and whether the job was completed on time and within budget.

Bonus: Check online reviews, but prioritize real conversations when possible.

3. What Roofing Materials Do You Recommend and Why?

A knowledgeable roofer will walk you through your options based on your home’s style, budget, and climate. Whether it's asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or tile, their recommendations should be rooted in experience—not just upselling.

Red Flag: If a roofer only pushes one brand or material without explaining your options, it might be a sign they’re more interested in profit than your needs.

4. Do You Offer a Warranty?

A quality roofing job should come with both a manufacturer’s warranty (for materials) and a workmanship warranty (for labor). Make sure you get both in writing and understand what’s covered and for how long.

Pro Tip: Ask how warranty claims are handled and what happens if the roofer goes out of business.

5. What Is the Estimated Timeline for My Project?

Time is money, and delays can be costly. Ask the roofer how long the project will take, when they can start, and what their daily schedule looks like. Be clear on whether weather delays or material shortages could impact the timeline.

Power Tip: A reliable roofer will build some flexibility into the schedule but should still provide a clear start and end date.

6. Who Will Be On-Site Doing the Work?

Some roofing companies outsource labor or hire subcontractors. You’ll want to know who is actually installing your roof—are they trained employees of the company or third-party workers?

Why it matters: Consistent oversight and accountability are harder to maintain with subcontractors. Ask if the project manager will be on-site daily and how issues will be communicated.

7. What’s the Total Cost—and What Does It Include?

Don’t settle for vague or verbal estimates. Get a detailed written quote that outlines materials, labor, permits, cleanup, and any additional fees. Ask if there’s a clause for unexpected costs and how those will be handled.

Smart Move: Compare multiple quotes, but don’t automatically choose the cheapest. A surprisingly low bid might mean cutting corners or using subpar materials.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a roofer is a major decision that affects your home’s safety, value, and appearance. By asking these key questions, you protect yourself from costly mistakes and ensure you’re working with a true professional.

Remember, a great roofer will welcome your questions, provide honest answers, and help you feel confident every step of the way. Don’t be afraid to walk away if something feels off—your roof (and peace of mind) is too important to risk.

Prospective Roofer

"Are You Licensed and Insured?"

In most states, roofing contractors are required to apply for a license on a city, county or state level before they can work professionally. In the State of Washington, roofers are not required to have a license, but they must be registered with the Washington Department of Labor & Industries Contractors' Registration Section. You can verify your contractor online using their name, workers' compensation account number or WA UBI number.

Your roofer's insurance coverage will help protect you from liability in case damage or injuries happen on your property. Your prospective roofers should be able to provide a copy of their insurance certificate. Make sure that their coverage includes general liability insurance (for accidental property damage) and workers' compensation (for injuries).

"What Is the Scope of Work?"

A good roofer should be able to determine the scope of the roofing project after the first inspection. This is important because their findings will be reflected in the quote or estimate. They should also discuss details such as materials, labor and the estimated timeline. Prospective roofers should be able to explain the project's details to their potential clients in a clear and understandable manner.

"How Will You Protect My Property?"

It's no secret that roofing work is messy and carries the risk of damage to other parts of your property. General liability insurance, as discussed above, compensates for damage after the fact, but your roofer shouldn't solely rely on this. Instead, a good roofer must take measures to prevent damage and only rely on their insurance coverage as a safety net. Your prospective roofer should have measures in place that will help protect your property, such as covering pathways and landscaping with tarp or similar material.

State Roofing & Exteriors provides roofing services to customers in Seattle and Tacoma, WA, as well as the surrounding communities. Give us a call, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.