Buying Guides

How to Choose a Roofing Contractor: 10 Essential Questions

Tom AndersonJanuary 4, 202611 min

Choosing the wrong contractor can cost tens of thousands. Here are 10 essential questions to ask.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Texas?

Require proof of general liability insurance ($1M minimum), workers' comp, and Texas roofing license. Verify certificates are current.

2. Can You Provide Local References?

Ask for 5-10 recent references in your area. Call them and ask about quality, timeline, and professionalism.

3. What's Included in Written Estimate?

Demand itemized quotes specifying materials, labor, timeline, and warranties.

4. What Permits Are Required?

Contractor should pull permits and handle inspections - included in price.

5. What's Your Workmanship Warranty?

Minimum 5 years, prefer 10+ years written warranty on installation.

Red Flags to Avoid

Demanding large upfront payment (over 25%)
No written contract
Can't provide insurance proof
Pressure to sign immediately
Door-to-door after storms

Frequently Asked Questions

How much general liability insurance should a Texas roofing contractor carry?

A Texas roofing contractor should carry at least $1 million in general liability insurance. You should also confirm active workers' compensation coverage and a current Texas roofing license. Ask for certificates directly and verify they are not expired before work begins.

How many references should I ask a roofer for?

Ask for 5 to 10 recent local references. Calling them matters more than receiving the list — ask each one specifically about work quality, whether the project finished on time, and how the crew handled problems. Local references are more useful than out-of-area ones because you can sometimes see the finished work.

What should a roofing estimate include?

A legitimate roofing estimate should itemize materials, labor, project timeline, and warranties. A vague quote with a single lump-sum number gives you no way to compare bids or hold a contractor accountable if something is left out. Require everything in writing before signing.

How long should a roofing workmanship warranty last?

A workmanship warranty should cover at least 5 years, and a 10-year or longer written warranty is preferable. This is separate from the manufacturer's material warranty. Get the workmanship warranty in writing as part of the contract, not as a verbal promise.

Is it a red flag if a roofer asks for a large deposit upfront?

Yes. Demanding more than 25% of the total job cost upfront is a warning sign. Other red flags include no written contract, inability to provide insurance proof, high-pressure tactics to sign immediately, and door-to-door solicitation right after a storm.

How to Choose a Roofing Contractor: 10 Essential Questions

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Texas?

2. Can You Provide Local References?

3. What's Included in Written Estimate?

4. What Permits Are Required?

5. What's Your Workmanship Warranty?

Red Flags to Avoid

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