8 Questions to Ask a Roofer Before You Sign
The short answer
Before hiring a roofer, ask whether they're licensed and insured, who will do the work, whether the bid includes tear-off and decking repair, which materials and warranties are included, how long it will take, how they protect your property, how payment works, and whether they'll pull the permit.
The eight questions
Roofing bids vary more than almost any other trade, and the difference is usually in what's included. These questions make the bids comparable:
- Are you licensed (where required) and insured, including workers' comp?
- Will your own crew do the work, or a subcontractor?
- Does the price include tear-off, disposal and replacing rotted decking?
- Which shingle or material line, and what manufacturer and workmanship warranties?
- How many days will it take, and what happens if it rains?
- How will you protect landscaping, siding and the driveway?
- What's the deposit and payment schedule?
- Will you pull the permit and schedule the inspection?
What a roof should cost
No chart can price your roof, because size, pitch, valleys, tear-off and material change the number so much. Compare bids from roofers who have seen it. If a roofer pushes a full replacement for a small leak, get a second opinion.
Red flags
Door-to-door storm chasers, pressure to sign the same day, a large cash deposit up front, or no written contract. A good roofer will put the scope, materials, price and warranty in writing.
Frequently asked questions
How much deposit should a roofer ask for?
Terms vary and some states cap deposits. Be wary of a large up-front cash deposit, and get the payment schedule in the written contract.
How many roofing quotes should I get?
At least three. Roofing bids vary widely, mostly because of what's included, so compare them on the same scope.
