Hiring a roofer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your home. Having to get a new roof can be frustrating and expensive. It’s something you need for your home and if it’s done properly it should last a very long time. 

Since it’s such an important part of your home, you need a professional contractor who will install, repair or replace correctly. Here is a list of questions that can help you save money and aggravation when it’s time to put on a new roof.

Questions to ask when getting estimates:

• Which areas of my home do you need to inspect to provide an estimate?
• May I have a detailed breakdown of each expense?
• How does the material affect installation costs?
• Can you quote a price for possible repairs common to roof installation or replacement?
• What is the cost of roof removal?
• Does the estimate factor in material price increases?

When you get an estimate from a contractor make sure that you get it in writing along with a projected time frame and all the information included in the contract of your roof. This way you have proof of what the contractor quoted you so that you have that available if you choose to go with that contractor.

Other questions you should ask a contractor before hiring them are: 

• What is your legal business name and address?
• Do you hold a current license as a roofing contractor?
• Which types of insurance do you have, and how much coverage do you carry?
• Are you bonded?
• Will you provide at least three references for my research?
• What warranties do your preferred manufacturers have?
• What are the rules on filing a warranty claim?
• Do you guarantee your work?
• Will you perform roofing repair or maintenance?
• How will you protect your workers’ safety while on my property?
• What steps will you take to avoid damaging my home or property during the installation?
• How will you ensure the project is completed on time?

You want to have someone that is licensed as a contractor so that they are reliable and you know that they know what they are doing when installing your roof. You want a roof that will last the maximum amount of time and this will only happen if it’s installed properly.