Questions to Ask Your Roofer: Safeguarding Your Investment

Hiring a roofer isn’t something most homeowners do often, and when the need finally comes, it’s usually during a stressful moment—after a bad storm, a leak, or a sudden roofing failure that demands immediate attention. With so many contractors available and roofing systems growing more complex every year, knowing who to trust can feel overwhelming.

The good news? Asking the right questions can help you separate the dependable professionals from the people who might leave you with regrets. Your roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make in your home, and choosing the right contractor is the first step toward protecting it.

This guide walks you through the most important questions to ask before you hire a roofer, helping you make confident decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and get the quality you deserve.

Key Takeaways

• A trustworthy roofer should be properly licensed, insured, and transparent about materials and workmanship warranties.
• Asking the right questions helps you avoid poor installations, hidden fees, and unreliable contractors.
• Communication, documentation, and clear expectations are essential to a successful roofing project.
• Homeowners should request detailed estimates, timelines, and proof of insurance before signing any contract.
• A reputable roofer will welcome questions—they aren’t threatened by them.

Why Asking Questions Matters More Than You Think

Roofing is one of those trades where experience, honesty, and attention to detail matter more than anything. A roof that’s installed poorly—even with the best materials—can fail in just a few years. And in a climate like Louisiana’s, with heavy rain, high humidity, and tropical storm seasons, a bad installation can become a nightmare.

When you ask questions, you’re not being difficult—you’re being smart. Think of it like interviewing someone who will be working on the most important protective system your home has. The answers you get will reveal whether the contractor is reliable, experienced, and capable of doing the job right the first time.

Essential Questions to Ask Your Roofer

Below are the questions every homeowner should ask. These aren’t trick questions—they’re basic expectations that any reputable roofer should be able to answer confidently and clearly.

1. Are you licensed and insured?

This is a non-negotiable starting point. Your roofer should carry:

• State-required contractor licensing
  
  
• General liability insurance
  
  
• Workers’ compensation coverage
  
  

Insurance protects you—not just the contractor. If an accident happens on your property and the roofer is uninsured, you could be held financially responsible.

2. How long have you been in business?

Experience matters. A contractor who has weathered years of local storms, supply changes, and roofing trends knows how to handle problems that newer roofers may not expect.

Long-standing contractors also tend to have a track record in the community—reviews, references, and reliable workmanship.

3. Do you provide written estimates?

A verbal quote is about as useful as a screen door on a submarine. Your estimate should include:

• Materials
  
  
• Labor
  
  
• Project scope
  
  
• Tear-off and disposal fees
  
  
• Structural repair costs (if needed)
  
  
• Timeline
  
  
• Warranty details
  
  

Written estimates prevent the classic “you didn’t say that” arguments later.

4. What roofing materials do you recommend—and why?

Not all asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or underlayment systems perform the same. A roofer should explain:

• Why they prefer certain brands
  
  
• Which products last longest in Louisiana
  
  
• What fits your home’s structure
  
  
• Warranty differences between materials
  
  

If their recommendation seems overly generic, they may be more focused on selling than solving.

5. Will you remove my old roof or install over it?

Installing over an old roof (called overlaying) may seem cheaper, but it can:

• Void warranties
  
  
• Hide structural issues
  
  
• Reduce the new roof’s lifespan
  
  
• Add unnecessary weight
  
  

Most quality roofers will recommend full tear-off unless there’s a compelling reason not to.

6. How will you protect my property during the project?

Roofing can be messy. A good contractor prevents damage to:

• Landscaping
  
  
• Gutters
  
  
• Windows
  
  
• Driveways
  
  
• Outdoor AC units
  
  

Ask about their cleanup process and how they handle stray nails—especially if you have kids or pets.

7. Who will be on the jobsite?

Some companies sell the job and subcontract the work. Subcontracting isn’t always bad, but you deserve to know who will actually be hammering on your home.

Ask if:

• The crew is company-employed
  
  
• The project manager will be on-site
  
  
• Communication goes through one contact person
  
  

This ensures accountability and consistency.

8. What warranties do you offer?

There are two major types:

• Manufacturer warranty (covers materials)
  
  
• Workmanship warranty (covers installation errors)
  
  

A strong roofing warranty shows confidence in the work being done.

9. How long will the project take?

You want a realistic timeline—not the fastest or the slowest answer. Weather, materials, and home size all play a role.

And make sure they explain what happens if bad weather delays the project.

10. How do you handle unexpected issues?

Sometimes contractors find rotten decking or water damage after removing a roof. How your roofer handles surprises will reveal a lot about their professionalism.

Ask:

• How additional costs are communicated
  
  
• How soon repairs are made
  
  
• Whether they take photos of hidden damage
  
  

Transparency is key.

Additional Questions That Help You Protect Your Investment

Beyond the basics, here are a few more questions that help you feel confident in your decision:

• Do you offer financing or payment plans?
• How do you ventilate attic spaces to prevent mold and heat buildup?
• Are your materials rated for Louisiana’s weather conditions?
• Can you provide references or examples of recent work?
• Do you install drip edge, flashing, and ice/water barriers?
• How long should my new roof last?

The answers should be clear, direct, and free of hesitation.

FAQs: What Homeowners Want to Know Before Hiring a Roofer

How many quotes should I get before choosing a roofer?

Most experts recommend three, but quality matters more than quantity. If you trust the contractor’s answers and reputation, one clear, detailed quote may be enough.

Does a roofer need to come to my home to give an accurate estimate?

Yes. A roofer who quotes over the phone without seeing your roof can’t evaluate decking, ventilation, flashing, or structural issues accurately.

Is a low price always a red flag?

Not always, but extremely low bids usually signal cheap materials, rushed labor, or inexperienced crews.

What should be in a roofing contract?

A contract should include materials, pricing, scheduling, cleanup expectations, warranties, and proof of insurance.

How do I know if my roofer is using good materials?

Ask for brand names, product lines, and warranty documentation. A reputable roofer will be proud to show you what they use.

Should I be home during roof installation?

You don’t have to be, but being available makes communication easier—especially if unexpected issues come up.

The Right Questions Lead You to the Right Roofer

Your roof is one of the biggest long-term investments you’ll make in your home. Asking smart, straightforward questions isn’t about being skeptical—it’s about being confident. A reputable roofer won’t shy away from explaining their process, materials, or pricing. In fact, they’ll appreciate that you're taking your home’s protection seriously.

Whether you're preparing for a full roof replacement, dealing with storm damage, or simply trying to understand your options, choosing the right contractor is the foundation of a successful project.

For trustworthy roofing expertise, detailed estimates, and friendly guidance every step of the way, reach out to HDS Contractors in New Orleans, LA. Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer your questions, assess your roof, and help you safeguard your investment with quality craftsmanship.