Roofing Near Me: What Are the Questions to Ask Before Hiring?

Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Local Roofing Contractor

Are You Licensed to Do Roofing in My Area?

When you search for roofing near me, always ask if the contractor is licensed to work locally. A license shows the roofer meets local legal and safety standards. Additionally, it shows that they are aware of local building norms and codes. Hiring an unlicensed roofer could result in substandard work or legal complications. You may not have much protection if something goes wrong. Always verify the contractor’s license status directly with your local or state licensing authority. This question helps you avoid big headaches later.

Do You Have Insurance Coverage?

One of the most important questions to ask during your roofing near me search is about insurance. A good roofing contractor should have both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. General liability insurance protects your property if the contractor causes damage during the project. Workers’ compensation insurance covers the roofing company’s employees if they are injured while working on your property. Without proper insurance, you could be held responsible for injuries or accidents. Don’t be afraid to ask for proof. Before doing any work on your roof, a reliable roofer will be pleased to show you their coverage. Insurance protects you from costly liability—don’t skip this step.

Can You Provide a Written Estimate?

Getting a written estimate is essential before hiring anyone from your roofing near me search results. A written estimate outlines the costs, materials, and timeline for your roofing project. It helps avoid confusion and surprise fees later on. Verbal agreements are risky and hard to prove if there’s a disagreement. Ask the roofer to include every detail—like cleanup, materials, labor, and extra charges—in the document. Having everything in writing protects both you and the contractor and helps keep the project on track from start to finish.

Do You Have Local References or Past Projects?

When you find a company under roofing near me, ask for a few references from recent jobs. Speaking with past customers can give you insight into how the roofer works, how they treat clients, and whether they finished on time. You can also ask to see photos or addresses of completed roofs in your area. A reliable roofer will be proud of their work and happy to show it. This step gives you confidence that they’ve done quality jobs close to home—and not just made big promises.

What Materials Will You Be Using?

Roofing materials can vary in price, style, and quality. During your roofing near me search, ask the contractor to explain what materials they recommend and why. Will they use asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or something else? Ensure you understand how long the materials last and what kind of maintenance they require. Cheap materials might save money now, but they could lead to more repairs later. A good contractor will help you choose the right material for your budget, location, and goals for your home or business.

Who Will Be Onsite Doing the Work?

Just because you meet with someone during your roofing near me search doesn’t mean they’ll be doing the work themselves. Ask if they’ll be onsite or if a separate crew will handle the job. It’s helpful to know who’s in charge during the project so you know whom to contact with questions. If they’re using a subcontractor, make sure that the team is licensed and insured. Knowing who’s actually working on your roof makes it easier to communicate and follow up if anything comes up.

What Is Your Project Timeline?

When talking to contractors during your roofing near me search, always ask how long the job will take. Some projects only need a few days, while others take longer, depending on the size of your roof or weather delays. A clear timeline helps you prepare your household, make necessary arrangements, and plan your schedule around the project. You’ll want to know when they plan to start, how many hours they’ll work each day, and what happens if there are unexpected delays. A roofer who gives you a realistic schedule shows that they’re serious and organized.

What Happens If There’s Unexpected Damage?

During your roofing near me search, ask what the contractor does if they find damage under your current roof. Sometimes, once the old roofing is removed, hidden problems like rotten wood or mold appear. You’ll want to know how they’ll handle those surprises and if it will change the price or timeline. A reputable roofing company should clearly outline, in the contract, how unexpected damage, such as rotten wood or mold discovered during the project, will be addressed and whether it will affect costs or the project schedule. This question can prevent future arguments and help you feel better prepared for unforeseen issues during the project.