Avoid Costly Mistakes When Hiring a Roofing Contractor: 5 Essential Questions You Need to Ask

Hiring the wrong roofing contractor can lead to unnecessary costs, subpar work, and even legal headaches. Many homeowners have experienced issues like poor repairs, contractors disappearing, or being stuck with unexpected liabilities because their contractor didn’t have proper insurance or used unreliable subcontractors.

But there’s a way to avoid these problems.
By asking the right questions upfront, you can protect your home and your wallet. Here's what you need to know before signing any contract:

Related: 9 Urgent Signs You Need a Roof Replacement: A Guide for Central Texas Homeowners

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

The quickest way to verify if a roofing contractor is trustworthy is by asking if they are licensed and insured. Licensing ensures the contractor meets local regulations, while insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or damages. Never hire a contractor who cannot provide proof of both.

2. Do You Have a Local Office?

Hiring a local contractor comes with added benefits. If the roofing company has a physical office near your location, they’ll be more accessible if problems arise later on. A local presence also means they are familiar with your area’s weather conditions and roofing needs.

3. Do You Use Your Own Crews or Subcontractors?

This question can save you future headaches. If the contractor subcontracts their work, it may complicate issues like accountability and insurance coverage. A roofing company that employs its own crew is often easier to work with since they have more control over their team’s quality and consistency.

4. Is Your Job Site Fully Insured?

It's not just about insuring the roofing contractor; you need to ensure that the entire job site is covered. This includes trucks, trailers, and any subcontractors working on the project. If something happens on-site, full insurance coverage will protect you from unexpected expenses.

5. What is Your Job Timeline?

Understanding how far out a contractor is scheduling jobs and their timeline for completion will set the right expectations. Ask about their start date, completion estimate, and whether any factors (like weather) could cause delays. Clear communication around the timeline helps prevent misunderstandings.