How do you choose a roofing contractor you can trust?
Verify the essentials before you sign: a valid license where required, current liability and workers’ compensation insurance, a written itemized quote, both material and workmanship warranties, and verifiable reviews. These filters remove the vast majority of problem contractors - and we can match you with local pros who already meet them.
New Roof Guide connects you with licensed local companies - we are not a contractor.
Hire with confidenceWhat should you verify before hiring a roofer?
Work through a short checklist that filters out most problem contractors: confirm licensing and insurance, get a written itemized quote, and check the warranty and reputation. A great roof installed badly is a bad roof, so the contractor matters as much as the material.
- Licensing - valid state or local license where roofing work requires one.
- Insurance - current liability and workers’ compensation, so you are not liable for accidents.
- Written quote & warranty - itemized scope, plus material and workmanship warranties in writing.
- Reputation - verifiable reviews, references and a real business address.
What questions should you ask a roofer?
Ask about licensing and insurance, the warranty on both materials and workmanship, who actually does the work, the timeline, how they handle unexpected decking repairs, and the payment terms. Straight answers and a willingness to put everything in writing are strong signs of a professional you can trust.
Should you choose the cheapest quote?
Not automatically. The lowest bid can mean thinner materials, unlicensed crews, or costs added later. Compare what is included, the warranty and the contractor’s track record - the best value is rarely the cheapest number. Watch for red flags like large cash deposits, no written contract, or post-storm door-knocking.
Want us to find a vetted contractor for you?
Short on time? Tell us about your roof and your location, and we will connect you with licensed, insured local contractors who meet these standards. Comparing written quotes is free, and there is never any obligation to hire.
Check for a valid license where required, current liability and workers' compensation insurance, a physical business address, verifiable reviews, and a written itemized quote.
Ask about licensing and insurance, the material and workmanship warranty, the crew, the timeline, how they handle decking repairs, and payment terms - in writing.
Not automatically. The lowest bid can mean thinner materials or unlicensed crews. Compare what is included, the warranty and the track record.
We connect you with licensed, insured local companies. You should still confirm licensing, insurance and references before signing any contract.
Inspection & contractor guides
Deeper guides on inspections and finding the right pro.
How was this guide put together?
This guide reflects widely accepted best practice for vetting contractors. We avoid quoting universal prices; instead we help you verify credentials and compare written quotes from local pros.
- Basis - standard licensing, insurance and warranty checks.
- Your choice - verified credentials and written quotes from local contractors.
Last updated 19 August 2026. This is general guidance, not professional advice for your specific roof - always rely on a licensed contractor's assessment.
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