How to Choose a Roofer: The Complete Homeowner’s Guide

Your roof is one of the most important investments in your home. It protects your family, belongings, and property from harsh weather, and a well-installed roof can last decades. But when it comes time for a roof repair or replacement, many homeowners feel overwhelmed with one big question: how to choose a roofer.

Hiring the right roofing contractor can mean the difference between a smooth, professional installation and a nightmare of delays, poor workmanship, and unexpected costs. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting the right roofer for your home, from qualifications to red flags to watch for.

Why Choosing the Right Roofer Matters

Your roof isn’t just shingles, nails, and flashing—it’s the first line of defense against rain, wind, snow, and extreme temperatures. A poor roofing job can lead to:

Leaks and water damage inside your home.
Mold growth from hidden moisture.
Shortened roof lifespan because of improper installation.
Voided warranties on materials due to incorrect installation practices.
Higher energy bills if the roof isn’t ventilated or insulated properly.

By taking the time to research and carefully evaluate your options, you can avoid these problems and feel confident about your investment.

Step 1: Start with Referrals and Research

One of the best ways to begin your search is through word-of-mouth recommendations. Ask family, friends, or neighbors:

Have you worked with a roofer you trust?
Were you satisfied with the workmanship?
Did the roofer complete the job on time and within budget?

In addition to referrals, use online resources:

Google Reviews & Yelp – Check for consistency in positive feedback.
Better Business Bureau (BBB) – See ratings and complaints.
Angi or HomeAdvisor – Browse vetted local contractors.
Company websites – Professional roofers usually showcase certifications, portfolios, and customer testimonials.

The goal is to build a list of at least three to five potential roofers to evaluate further.

Step 2: Verify Licensing and Insurance

Never skip this step. A roofer should be properly licensed and insured to work in your state or city. Without it, you could be held liable for accidents or property damage.

License – Check your state’s licensing board to confirm the contractor is authorized to operate.
Liability Insurance – Protects your property from accidental damage.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Covers employees if they’re injured on the job.

Ask for proof of insurance and licensing up front. Reputable roofers will provide this without hesitation.

Step 3: Look for Certifications and Credentials

High-quality roofers often have certifications from manufacturers or professional organizations. These credentials indicate advanced training and a commitment to best practices.

Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
GAF Master Elite® Contractor
CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™

Roofers with these distinctions can often offer extended manufacturer warranties that uncertified contractors cannot.

Step 4: Ask the Right Questions

When meeting with potential roofers, prepare a list of questions:

How long have you been in business?
Can you provide local references I can contact?
What roofing materials do you recommend and why?
What does your installation process look like?
How do you handle unexpected issues or hidden damage?
Will you provide a written estimate and timeline?
Do you handle permits and inspections?
What warranties do you offer on materials and labor?

The roofer’s answers should be clear, professional, and backed by experience.

Step 5: Review Written Estimates

Always get at least three written estimates before choosing a roofer. When comparing bids, don’t just look at the bottom-line price. Instead, evaluate:

Scope of work – Does it include tear-off, disposal, flashing, and cleanup?
Materials – Are they using high-quality shingles, underlayment, and fasteners?
Labor costs – Are they transparent and competitive?
Warranty details – Does it cover both materials and workmanship?
Timeline – Is the project completion date realistic?

Be cautious of bids that are suspiciously low—this often signals cut corners or hidden fees down the road.

Step 6: Check Communication and Professionalism

The way a roofer communicates during the initial stages can give you insight into what working with them will be like. Signs of professionalism include:

Prompt responses to calls, emails, or texts.
Clear, detailed estimates without pressure tactics.
A clean, organized website and branded materials.
Willingness to answer questions and explain processes.

If a roofer is disorganized, evasive, or unresponsive, it’s a red flag.

Step 7: Evaluate Warranties

Roofing warranties usually fall into two categories:

Manufacturer’s Warranty – Covers defects in materials (length varies by product).
Workmanship Warranty – Covers installation errors by the contractor.

A trustworthy roofer should offer both. Ask how long the warranties last and what is (and isn’t) covered.

Step 8: Look for Local Experience

Hiring a local roofer has several advantages:

They’re familiar with building codes and permit requirements in your area.
They understand regional weather challenges (snow, hail, humidity, heat).
Local roofers rely on their reputation—so they’re more likely to stand behind their work.

Avoid “storm chasers” who show up after big weather events, offering quick fixes and then disappearing.

Step 9: Visit Completed Projects

If possible, ask the roofer for addresses of recent projects. Driving by a completed job allows you to:

See the quality of workmanship.
Check if the cleanup was thorough.
Observe if the roof looks consistent and professional.

Some roofers may even arrange site visits where you can talk to past clients.

Step 10: Trust Your Instincts

At the end of the day, choosing a roofer isn’t just about numbers on paper. You need to feel comfortable and confident in the contractor you hire. If something feels off—whether it’s high-pressure sales tactics, vague answers, or lack of transparency—it’s best to keep looking.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Unfortunately, not all roofing contractors operate with integrity. Here are warning signs to avoid:

No physical address or office – Only a P.O. box.
High-pressure sales tactics – “Sign today or the deal is gone.”
Demands large upfront payment – Reputable roofers usually require a deposit, not full payment.
Unclear or missing contracts – Always get everything in writing.
Lack of insurance or license – Never take their word for it—verify.

How Much Should You Pay for Roofing Services?

Roofing costs vary depending on materials, labor, and location. On average:

Asphalt shingles: $5,000 – $12,000
Metal roofing: $10,000 – $25,000
Tile roofing: $15,000 – $30,000
Flat roofing (TPO, EPDM): $7,000 – $15,000

Remember: the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Investing in a skilled roofer ensures better longevity and fewer problems down the road.

The Benefits of Choosing the Right Roofer

When you take the time to learn how to choose a roofer wisely, you can enjoy:

Peace of mind knowing the job was done right.
Longer roof lifespan thanks to expert installation.
Fewer repairs because issues are addressed correctly the first time.
Warranty protection from both the manufacturer and contractor.
Improved home value with a durable, attractive roof.

Choosing a Roofer: A Step-By-Step Checklist

To simplify the process, here’s a quick checklist:

✅ Get referrals and read reviews.
✅ Verify license and insurance.
✅ Look for certifications (Owens Corning, GAF, CertainTeed).
✅ Ask detailed questions.
✅ Collect at least three written estimates.
✅ Evaluate professionalism and communication.
✅ Understand warranties.
✅ Prioritize local experience.
✅ Visit past projects.
✅ Trust your instincts.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to choose a roofer isn’t something to rush. Your roof is a major investment, and the contractor you hire plays a huge role in its performance and longevity. By following the steps outlined in this guide—researching, verifying credentials, asking the right questions, and watching for red flags—you can confidently select a roofer who will deliver high-quality results.

Your home deserves the best protection possible, and with the right roofer, you can rest easy knowing your investment is in good hands.

How To Choose A Roofer