Questions to Ask a Roofer (11 Smart Ones Before Hiring)

Hiring the right roofing contractor can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and future replacements. But how do you know who’s trustworthy? Knowing the right questions to ask a roofer before you sign a contract ensures your home is in qualified hands. Whether you’re planning a roof replacement or tackling storm damage in Great Falls and surrounding areas, asking the right things upfront protects your investment and sets expectations clearly. To make a confident decision, explore these conversation starters during your next roofing consultation.

• Why asking questions can save you money and headaches
• 11 key questions every homeowner should ask a roofer
• What to listen for in a contractor’s answers
• How to avoid red flags and find a reliable pro

Why Asking the Right Roofing Questions Matters

Your roof is one of the most important structural and protective elements of your home. Replacing or repairing it is a major expense — one you want done right the first time. That’s why knowing what to ask is essential.

• Protects Your Investment: Informed questions help ensure quality materials and workmanship.
• Uncovers Red Flags Early: Poor answers can reveal hidden issues like lack of insurance or shady practices.
• Clarifies Expectations: You’ll better understand timelines, pricing, and warranties by discussing them upfront.
• Builds Trust: A confident, professional roofer welcomes transparency and thorough questions.
• Ensures Code Compliance: The right contractor will know local building codes in Great Falls and surrounding areas.

11 Smart Questions to Ask a Roofer Before Hiring

The best roofers appreciate informed clients. Use these questions during your initial consultations to evaluate each contractor’s professionalism, reliability, and fit for your project.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Always start with credentials. A valid license shows the contractor is legally permitted to work in your state. Insurance protects both you and their workers if something goes wrong.

• Ask for copies of licenses and insurance certificates
• Ensure they carry both general liability and worker’s compensation

2. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience matters when it comes to proper installation and problem-solving. A company with a strong track record is more likely to stay in business if issues arise later.

• Look for at least 5+ years in the local area
• Ask about experience with homes like yours

3. Can You Provide Local References?

Reputable roofers should have no trouble connecting you with past customers. Talking to other homeowners in Great Falls and surrounding areas can give you peace of mind.

• Ask for 2–3 recent jobs with addresses and contact info
• Check review sites to confirm patterns of quality work

4. What Roofing Materials Do You Recommend?

You want a contractor who understands your needs, not just someone pushing what they stock. The best roofers explain your options based on climate, budget, and long-term goals.

• Ask about pros and cons of asphalt, metal, tile, or synthetic options
• Discuss energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetics

5. What Is Included in the Estimate?

Not all roofing quotes are created equal. Make sure your estimate covers materials, labor, tear-off, disposal, and permits.

• Request a written, itemized estimate
• Ask what could lead to additional charges

6. Who Will Be On-Site During the Job?

Some companies subcontract or switch crews depending on the day. You want to know who’s responsible for your property and how communication will be handled.

• Ask for the name of the site supervisor
• Confirm if workers are employees or subcontractors

7. How Will You Protect My Property?

Roofing can be messy. A quality contractor should take care to protect your landscaping, siding, and driveways.

• Ask about their cleanup process and safety precautions
• Confirm whether they use tarps, dump trailers, or magnetic nail sweepers

8. What Is the Timeline for the Project?

A clear schedule helps you plan around noise, equipment, and workers. It also shows that the roofer is organized and values your time.

• Ask how long the project will take from start to finish
• Discuss possible weather delays and how they are handled

9. Do You Offer a Warranty?

Warranties are a sign of quality and accountability. You should receive two types: one from the manufacturer (on materials) and one from the contractor (on labor).

• Ask how long each warranty lasts
• Confirm what is and isn’t covered

10. Will You Pull the Necessary Permits?

Any reputable roofer will handle local permitting to ensure your roof complies with local codes in Great Falls and surrounding areas.

• Ask if permits are included in the bid
• Verify they understand regional building requirements

11. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues?

Roofs sometimes reveal problems hidden beneath the surface. How the roofer reacts when surprises happen says a lot about their integrity and professionalism.

• Ask how they document unexpected damage
• Confirm how change orders are handled and priced

What to Look For in a Roofer’s Answers

Asking smart questions is only half the process. Pay close attention to how the contractor responds.

Look for Confidence and Detail

• Professionals give clear, specific answers — not vague promises
• Detailed responses show experience and thoroughness

Watch for Transparency

• Reputable roofers don’t hesitate to share references, credentials, or pricing breakdowns
• Evasiveness or deflection can be a red flag

Consider Their Communication Style

• Are they respectful, patient, and informative?
• Good communication early on usually means good project management later

Additional Tips When Hiring a Roofer

Beyond the questions you ask, here are more ways to protect your investment and find the right partner for your roofing project.

Read Reviews Thoroughly

• Look beyond the star rating to see how the company handles issues
• Focus on reviews from the past 12 months

Check Manufacturer Certifications

• Roofers certified by major brands (like GAF or CertainTeed) meet higher standards
• These credentials often qualify you for better warranties

Visit Previous Job Sites (If Possible)

• Ask to drive by completed roofs in Great Falls and surrounding areas
• This lets you see workmanship and attention to detail firsthand

Avoid High-Pressure Sales Tactics

• Quality roofers give you time to make a decision
• Be cautious of offers that expire the same day or require a large deposit up front

Request a Written Contract

• It should clearly outline costs, timelines, payment terms, and warranties
• Avoid verbal-only agreements or vague scope descriptions

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Not every contractor who knocks on your door is worth hiring. Use this checklist to spot potential issues early.

Trust Your Roof to a Contractor Who Welcomes Questions

The right roofing contractor won’t just tolerate questions — they’ll encourage them. A trustworthy roofer knows that informed clients lead to smoother projects and better outcomes. In Great Falls and surrounding areas, where weather and regulations make roofing decisions especially important, it pays to be thorough. If you’re looking for honest answers, professional service, and a team that knows what matters most to homeowners, contact us today to speak with All Team Exteriors.