Starting any roofing job, residential or commercial, be sure you are comfortable with the contractor’s representatives.

Here are some important questions to ask. The answers can affect:

  • Your roof’s quality
  • The service you’re provided
  • The satisfaction you receive while the work is being done and after the job is completed.

About the Roof

  • Can my roof be repaired or must it be replaced?
  • What options do I have?
  • What are the pros and cons of each option?
  • Do you recommend that a new roof use the same materials that are used in my current roof or something different? Why?
  • What are other materials options and how would they affect cost?
  • What kind of maintenance will the new (or repaired) roof require?
  • With proper maintenance, how long would the roof last?
  • What kind of warranty comes with the roof you’re recommending?
  • Are better warranties provided with other types? If so, what are they?

About the Contractor

  • How long has your company been in business?
  • How many full time people do you employ?
  • What kind of service, workmanship and materials do you provide?
  • Have you done similar types of roofing jobs in my area? How many? Can I see them?
  • Does your company carry current liability insurance?
  • How much?
  • Do you carry workman’s compensation insurance?

About the Bid

  • When would you start the job?
  • How long will the job take?
  • How much will the job cost?
  • Does your price include cleaning up the job site daily throughout the job?
  • Does your price include hauling away all used materials & trash to certified dump facilities?
  • If asbestos is involved, a certificate of disposal should be obtained. Does the contractor have the necessary license to perform the work?

Contractors you’re talking to should provide answers to these and any other questions you ask in a timely fashion.

The answers should be in writing – either included as part of a bid or proposal, or in a separate letter which provides specific responses to your specific questions.