Short answer: Choose a local roofer with a verifiable address, the license or registration your state requires, liability and workers compensation insurance, good local references and a detailed written contract. Be cautious of anyone who knocks on your door after a storm, asks for large payments up front or pressures you to sign right away.
A new roof is a big investment, and after a storm, homeowners are often approached by people offering quick repairs. This guide explains how to choose a roofing contractor you can trust, and how to spot the warning signs of a storm chaser.
What to look for
- A local business: a real address and a history in your area, so they will be around for warranty work
- License or registration: check with your state or city, since rules vary
- Insurance: ask for certificates of liability and workers compensation insurance
- References: recent local jobs you can look at
- Manufacturer certification: can allow stronger warranties
- A written contract: with materials, scope, price, schedule, permit, cleanup and warranties
Warning signs of a storm chaser
- Knocking on doors right after a storm with out of state plates
- Pushing you to sign today or claiming a deal expires
- Asking for full payment or a large deposit before work starts
- Offering to pay or waive your insurance deductible, which can be illegal in some states
- Asking you to sign papers that hand control of your insurance claim to them
- No local address, license or insurance proof
Never let anyone climb on your roof without your permission, and never sign anything you have not read. Take time to check any contractor, even after storm damage.
Questions to ask every roofer
- How long have you worked in this area?
- Are you licensed or registered, and insured?
- Will you pull the permit?
- Will you remove the old roof or install over it, and why?
- What underlayment, flashing and ventilation will you use?
- Who will do the work, your crew or subcontractors?
- What is the manufacturer warranty and your workmanship warranty?
- How will you protect my yard and clean up nails?
Comparing quotes
Get at least two or three written quotes and compare them item by item, not only by price. Check that each includes the same materials, removal, deck repair allowance, flashing, ventilation, permit and cleanup. A much lower quote may leave out important parts.
Working with insurance
After storm damage, call your insurer before signing any contract. Your adjuster will inspect the damage. A good roofer can meet the adjuster and point out damage, but you stay in charge of your claim. Read about storm and hail damage roof repair.
Red flags in a contract
- No start or finish date
- Vague wording like standard materials instead of brands and products
- No mention of permits, deck repairs or cleanup
- Pressure to sign papers that hand your insurance claim to the contractor
- No written warranty terms
Payment tips
- Pay a reasonable deposit only, and the balance when work is complete and inspected
- Pay by check or card, not cash
- Get lien waivers from the roofer for materials and labor where your state uses them
- Keep copies of the contract, permit and warranties
Quick answers: how to choose a roofing contractor
How do I choose a good roofing contractor?
Look for a local roofer with a license or registration, insurance, references and a detailed written contract.
What is a storm chaser roofer?
A contractor who travels to storm areas, often pressuring homeowners to sign quickly and pay up front.
Should I pay a roofer up front?
Pay only a reasonable deposit, with the balance after the work is complete and inspected.
Can a roofer pay my insurance deductible?
In many states, waiving or paying a deductible is illegal or a red flag. Check your state rules.
Where can I find a roofer?
Sifixit can connect you with an independent local roofer. Always check their license and insurance.
Related
This guide covered how to choose a roofing contractor. For more background, see Ready.gov’s severe weather advice, and if you need help, Sifixit can connect you with a local provider.
This guide is general information for homeowners, not professional, insurance or safety advice for your situation.
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