When it’s time to fix or replace your roof, one wrong hire could cost you more than just money—it could risk your entire home. Choosing a trusted local roofing expert protects your investment, ensures long-term durability, and reduces stress. But how do you know who’s legit, skilled, and reliable? That’s where this guide comes in. You’ll learn how to spot red flags, ask the right questions, and confidently hire a local roofing contractor who delivers precisely what your home needs.
Step 1: Determine Whether You Need Roof Repair or Replacement
The first step is understanding your roofing needs. You’re probably in roof repair territory if you see signs like a few damaged shingles, slight discoloration, or water stains. Repairs are suitable for localized roof damage, perhaps caused by storm damage or aging in a specific section.
But if your roof is over 20 years old, has widespread wear, curling or brittle shingles, sagging spots, or multiple leaks, these are signs you may need a reroofing project.
Don’t rely on guesswork. Bring in professional contractors for a free inspection. A reputable roofing contractor will examine your roofing system’s exterior and interior, checking roofing materials, flashing, gutters, attic insulation, moisture levels, and even signs of mold or rot.
They’ll help determine whether patching will suffice or if it’s time to invest in a new roof. Ensure a thorough assessment, including photos and a written estimate, so you understand exactly what you’re working with.
Step 2: Check for Proper Licensing, Insurance, and Certifications
Now that you know the scope of the roofing project, it’s time to get serious about vetting. Roofing is skilled work, and with your home on the line, you can’t afford to hire someone unqualified. Every contractor you consider must carry the appropriate license for your state and municipality. This ensures they meet minimum competency requirements and are held accountable to building codes.
Insurance coverage is equally crucial. Liability insurance protects your home if something goes wrong during the project, and general liability insurance protects you from being held liable if a crew member gets injured on the job. Always request proof of both, and don’t just take a photocopy at face value—call the insurance company to confirm it’s active.
Next, look at certifications. Contractors certified by top manufacturers like GAF or CertainTeed have undergone specific training and are authorized to install their products. This not only proves expertise but often extends your material warranties. When in doubt, check credentials with your state licensing board or roofing company websites. You want the best protection from day one.
Step 3: Understand Roofing Material Options and Warranties
Once you’ve figured out how to choose a roofer and verified that your preferred roofer is qualified, the next decision is what type of roofing materials to use. Asphalt shingles are the most common, offering affordability, decent durability (15–30 years), and various styles.
Metal roofing is more expensive but incredibly long-lasting, often 40 to 70 years, with excellent resistance to wind, fire, and pests. Tile and slate provide a timeless, high-end look and last even longer, but are heavy and require a solid roof deck.
Each material has its own maintenance needs and cost considerations. But most homeowners miss the fact that the material warranty is often tied to the contractor’s certification and installation process.
If the roofing contractor doesn’t follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, your warranty could be voided even if the material is sound. That’s why you should ask not just about brands and options but also how they’ll be installed, what’s covered under the workmanship warranty, and for how long.
Step 4: Research Local Reputation and Verified Customer Feedback
A good reputation isn’t optional in the roofing industry—it’s essential. You need to dig beyond the company’s website. Start by looking them up on third-party review sites like Google reviews, Yelp, Angi, and the Better Business Bureau.
Focus on recent reviews, and look for patterns. A few one-off complaints may be normal, but consistent issues—missed deadlines, bad communication, poor cleanup—should raise a red flag.
Check whether the roofing company is accredited with the business bureau and if complaints have been filed. Also, search for their name in your state’s contractor complaint registry. Some roofing contractors belong to local or national trade associations, which often require a higher standard of practice.
Finally, ask to provide references. Speak directly with satisfied customers, especially those who have had similar roofing projects done. A reputable roofing contractor will proudly share examples of past work and photos to boost your home’s curb appeal.
Step 5: Request Detailed, Transparent Roofing Estimates
Getting a roofing quote isn’t just about the number at the bottom—it’s about what’s included in that number. A quality roofing contractor will provide written estimates that break down the full scope of work. This should cover roofing materials (with brand and grade), labor, removal and disposal of old materials, cleanup, building permit, and contingencies.
Don’t settle for vague or overly simple quotes. If you get multiple estimates and one is dramatically lower, find out why. Sometimes it’s due to lower-quality materials or hidden fees that appear after work begins.
Likewise, a higher bid may reflect quality roofing, superior warranties, or longer-lasting results. The key is understanding what each contractor offers. Ask questions and get answers in writing—this protects your wallet and roof in the long run.
Step 6: Evaluate the Roofing Timeline and Weather Planning
You’ve selected your roofing contractor and agreed on the scope. Now, it’s time to understand how long the job will take and how external factors like weather may impact that schedule. A standard asphalt shingle replacement usually takes one to three days. Metal, tile, or custom designs can take a week or longer. But even the best timeline can be derailed by rain, wind, or material delivery delays.
That’s why communication is key. Ask your roofer how they handle bad weather. If they secure the site overnight, how they will protect your interior and landscaping if work pauses, and how often will you receive updates.
Reliable local roofing contractors will build flexibility into the schedule, explain backup plans, and keep you in the loop every step of the way. A rushed job or poor planning can lead to issues arising down the line.
Step 7: Review Roofing Contracts Carefully Before Signing
The contract isn’t just paperwork—it’s your protection. Before signing anything, go through every detail with a critical eye. The agreement should specify the exact roofing materials, the full scope of work (including underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and decking), the estimated timeline, and all warranty details. It should also include a clear payment timeline, typically a deposit upfront, with final payment upon completion and approval.
Ensure there are provisions for unexpected issues, like discovering rotten wood or structural damage once the old roof is removed. Know if that requires a change order or if there’s a process to approve additional costs.
The contract should also state cleanup responsibilities, insurance coverage, and dispute resolution terms. If anything seems unclear or too general, ask for clarification. A reputable roofing contractor won’t shy away from transparency.
Step 8: Know What Happens After the Job Is Completed
The job’s done, but your checklist isn’t. Once the final shingle is in place, your roofing contractor should conduct a walkthrough with you. This is your chance to inspect the work, ask questions, and ensure everything looks and functions as promised. They should clean up all debris like shingles, nails, and packaging, and leave your property as they found it.
Don’t forget to collect all relevant documents: a paid invoice, workmanship warranty certificates, maintenance guidelines, and a written confirmation of project completion. Ask how to register your warranty, what’s covered, and who to contact if issues arise.
Some roofing companies even offer financing or financing options, which can help meet your roofing needs and allow you to choose a roofing contractor that meets your expectations.
Protect Your Home with Roof Top Services Today
Don’t leave your roof in the hands of chance—trust the licensed professionals at Roof Top Services for quality you can see and durability you can count on. From honest estimates to expert installation, we’ve got your home covered. Contact us now to schedule your free inspection and get started with a roofer you can rely on.