Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer: Essential Checklist

Start with these essential credential questions:

• "Are you licensed in Florida?" - Verify they hold a valid Florida contractor's license
• "What's your license number?" - Get the number and verify it online
• "Are you insured?" - They should have both liability and workers' compensation
• "Can you provide proof of insurance?" - Request certificates directly from insurance company
• "How long have you been in business?" - Experience matters
• "Do you have any complaints or violations?" - Check their record

Never work with unlicensed or uninsured roofers.

Ask about their experience:

• "How many roofs have you installed in Florida?" - Local experience matters
• "Do you have experience with [your material type]?" - Material-specific experience
• "Are you trained on the materials you'll use?" - Manufacturer training is important
• "Have you worked on homes like mine?" - Similar project experience
• "Do you have experience with my type of roof?" - Specific roof type experience
• "Can you provide local references?" - Local references you can contact

Experience with Florida's climate and building codes is essential.

Ask about your specific project:

• "How long will the project take?" - Realistic timeline
• "What materials will you use?" - Specific brands and models
• "Will you handle permits and inspections?" - Permit responsibility
• "What's included in the estimate?" - Detailed breakdown
• "What's not included?" - Hidden costs
• "Who will be on-site supervising?" - Supervision details
• "What happens if there's bad weather?" - Weather delays
• "What's your cleanup process?" - Cleanup expectations

Get detailed answers to understand exactly what you're getting.

Ask about warranties and protection:

• "What warranties come with materials?" - Material warranty details
• "What workmanship warranty do you provide?" - Installation warranty
• "How long are warranties valid?" - Warranty periods
• "Are warranties transferable?" - If you sell your home
• "How do I file a warranty claim?" - Claim process
• "What's covered and what's not?" - Warranty coverage

Understand all warranty terms before signing.

Ask about payment and contracts:

• "What's your payment schedule?" - Payment terms
• "How much is the deposit?" - Upfront payment
• "When is final payment due?" - Final payment timing
• "Do you provide lien waivers?" - Protection from liens
• "What's your cancellation policy?" - Contract terms
• "What happens if I'm not satisfied?" - Dispute resolution
• "Can I see a sample contract?" - Review contract terms

Never pay in full upfront. Typical schedule: 10-30% deposit, progress payments, 10-20% final payment.

Be wary if roofer:

• Can't or won't provide license number
• Can't provide proof of insurance
• Pressures you to sign immediately
• Asks for large upfront payment (50%+)
• Uses high-pressure sales tactics
• Can't provide local references
• Has no online presence or reviews
• Shows up uninvited after storms
• Offers "too good to be true" prices
• Won't put things in writing

These are warning signs—walk away if you see them.