Questions to Ask a Roofer Before Hiring (2026 Checklist)

Hiring a roofer is one of the biggest home improvement decisions you will make. A new roof or major repair can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000 or more, and choosing the wrong contractor can lead to shoddy work, voided warranties, and expensive callbacks. Before you commit, start with a professional roof inspection to understand exactly what work is needed. The difference between a great experience and a nightmare often comes down to the questions you ask before signing the contract.

We put together this checklist of 20 essential questions based on our 25+ years of roofing experience in Essex County, NJ. These are the questions that separate trustworthy roofing contractors from fly-by-night operators. Print this list, bring it to every estimate, and do not sign anything until you are satisfied with the answers.

1. 20 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer
2. Red Flags When Hiring a Roofer
3. Why NJ Homeowners Choose R&E Roofing
4. NJ-Specific Contractor Requirements
5. Frequently Asked Questions

20 Questions to Ask a Roofer Before Hiring

Use this numbered checklist during every roofing estimate. A reputable contractor will answer each question confidently and completely. Hesitation, vagueness, or refusal to answer is a clear warning sign.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in New Jersey?

This is the single most important question. In New Jersey, all roofing contractors must hold a valid Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration through the Division of Consumer Affairs. Ask for their registration number and verify it online.

Equally important: ask for proof of insurance. You need to see both general liability insurance (minimum $500,000, ideally $1 million+) and workers' compensation coverage. Without workers' comp, you could be liable if a worker is injured on your property.

What to expect: A legitimate contractor will provide insurance certificates and their license number without hesitation. If they dodge this question, end the conversation.

2. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience matters in roofing. A company that has been operating for 10+ years has weathered economic downturns, handled warranty claims, and built a reputation they want to protect. New companies are not automatically bad, but longevity is a strong trust signal.

Follow up by asking how long they have been doing business in your specific area. A contractor familiar with Essex County knows local building codes, common roof styles, and weather challenges unique to northern New Jersey.

What to expect: Years in business, number of roofs completed in your area, and a physical office address (not just a P.O. box).

3. Do You Have Local References I Can Contact?

Online reviews and testimonials are helpful, but direct references from homeowners in your area are even better. Ask for 3 to 5 references from jobs completed in the last 12 months, and actually call them.

Questions to ask references: Was the work completed on time? Were there any surprise costs? How was the cleanup? Would you hire them again? Did they handle any warranty issues?

What to expect: Names, phone numbers, and addresses of recent local customers. Some contractors can even show you nearby completed projects in person.

4. Will You Provide a Detailed Written Estimate?

Never accept a verbal quote. A professional written estimate should itemize everything: materials (brand, type, quantity), labor costs, tear-off and disposal fees, permits, and any additional charges. This protects both you and the contractor.

Compare itemized estimates side by side. If one contractor's estimate is vague ("roofing job: $12,000"), while another breaks down every component, the detailed estimate shows professionalism and prevents disputes later.

What to expect: A line-by-line written estimate with material specifications, labor breakdown, timeline, and total cost. It should arrive within 2 to 3 business days after the inspection.

5. What Roofing Materials Do You Recommend and Why?

A good roofer does not push a single product. They should evaluate your roof's pitch, your home's architecture, your budget, and New Jersey's climate before recommending specific materials. Ask them to explain the pros and cons of each option.

For New Jersey homes, common recommendations include architectural asphalt shingles for residential, and TPO or EPDM for commercial flat roofs. A knowledgeable contractor will explain why certain materials handle NJ's freeze-thaw cycles and nor'easters better than others.

What to expect: 2 to 3 material options at different price points, with clear explanations of lifespan, warranty, and performance in your local climate.

Want Straight Answers to All 20 Questions?

R&E Roofing answers every question on this list during your free estimate. No pressure, no surprises.

Call (667) 204-1609 Request Free Estimate

6. What Warranties Do You Offer?

There are two types of warranties to ask about: the manufacturer warranty (covers material defects, typically 25 to 50 years) and the workmanship warranty (covers installation errors, varies widely by contractor).

The workmanship warranty is what separates contractors. Some offer 1 to 2 years, others offer 10 to 25 years. A long workmanship warranty tells you the contractor stands behind their installation quality. Get the warranty terms in writing as part of the contract.

What to expect: Clear explanation of both warranty types, written warranty documentation, and what specific issues are covered vs. excluded.

7. Who Will Be on the Job Site Daily?

Find out who manages the project day to day. Will a dedicated project manager or foreman be on-site? Or will the sales representative hand you off to a crew you have never met? Knowing your point of contact before work begins prevents miscommunication.

Also ask about the crew size and whether they will be working on your project full-time or splitting time between multiple jobs. A crew that is bouncing between sites usually means your project will take longer than quoted.

What to expect: Name and phone number of the on-site supervisor, estimated crew size, and confirmation they will be dedicated to your project.

8. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues?

Once the old roof comes off, hidden damage like rotted decking, deteriorated flashing, or mold is not uncommon. Ask the contractor upfront: how do they handle surprises? Will they stop work and contact you before proceeding? Is there a protocol for change orders?

A trustworthy contractor will explain their change order process: they will document the issue, photograph it, present your options with pricing, and get your written approval before doing any additional work. No reputable roofer should ever perform extra work without your consent.

What to expect: A clear change order policy in the contract, with language requiring your approval before any additional costs are incurred.

9. Do You Pull All Necessary Permits?

In New Jersey, a building permit is required for any roof replacement covering more than 25% of the total roof area. The contractor should handle permitting, not you. This is a standard part of their job, and any contractor who suggests skipping permits is a major red flag.

Permits exist to protect you. They ensure the work is inspected for code compliance and create an official record that the work was done properly. This matters when selling your home or filing insurance claims.

What to expect: Confirmation that all permits are included in the price, that they will schedule and attend the inspection, and that you will receive copies of the approved permit.

10. What Is Your Realistic Timeline?

Get a specific start date and estimated completion date in writing. Ask what could delay the project (weather, material availability, crew scheduling) and how those delays will be communicated. A typical residential roof replacement takes 2 to 5 days, depending on size and complexity.

Be wary of contractors who promise unrealistically fast timelines. Rushing a roof installation leads to mistakes. Equally, be cautious of vague timelines like "we will start sometime next month."

What to expect: A specific start date, estimated completion date, daily work hours, and a communication plan for weather delays.

11. Do You Offer Financing Options?

A roof replacement is a significant investment, and many reputable contractors offer financing to make it manageable. Ask about available financing programs, interest rates, term lengths, and whether the financing is provided by the contractor or a third-party lender.

Financing should never be used to pressure you into a decision. A good contractor presents financing as an option, not a sales tactic. Compare financing terms just as carefully as you compare roofing estimates.

What to expect: Available financing programs with clear terms, no-pressure presentation, and time to review the terms before committing.

12. How Do You Handle Cleanup and Debris Removal?

Roofing generates a significant amount of debris: old shingles, nails, underlayment, flashing, and packaging. Ask the contractor exactly how they handle cleanup. Will they use a dumpster? Do they run a magnetic nail sweep of your yard and driveway? Is cleanup included in the price?

Stray roofing nails are a common issue that can puncture tires and injure pets or children. A professional roofing crew runs a magnetic roller over your entire property, including the lawn, driveway, and walkways, at the end of each work day, not just at the end of the project.

What to expect: Daily cleanup protocol, magnetic nail sweep included, dumpster on-site, and final walkthrough with you before the project is considered complete.

13. Do You Work with Insurance Companies?

If your roof has storm damage, you may be filing an insurance claim. Ask whether the contractor has experience working with insurance adjusters, whether they can help document the damage, and whether they will meet the adjuster on-site.

An experienced roofing contractor knows how to document damage in a way that supports your claim, provide the documentation your insurer requires, and ensure nothing is missed during the adjuster's inspection. This can be the difference between a fully covered claim and an underpayment.

What to expect: Experience with the insurance claims process, willingness to meet the adjuster, and help with documentation. Be cautious of contractors who offer to "waive your deductible" (this is insurance fraud).

14. Can I See Photos of Your Recent Work?

Every contractor claims they do great work. Ask to see photos or a portfolio of recently completed projects, ideally in your area and on homes similar to yours. Better yet, ask if you can drive by a recent project to see the finished roof in person.

Pay attention to details in the photos: clean, straight lines along ridges and edges, proper flashing around chimneys and vents, consistent shingle alignment, and tidy work around penetrations. These details separate skilled installers from careless ones.

What to expect: A portfolio of 10+ recent projects with before-and-after photos, ideally including projects on homes with similar roof styles to yours.

15. What Happens If It Rains During the Project?

New Jersey weather is unpredictable, and a partially completed roof is vulnerable to water damage. Ask the contractor how they protect your home if rain arrives mid-project. Do they install temporary waterproof tarps? How quickly can they respond?

A professional roofer monitors weather forecasts and plans their tear-off schedule accordingly. They should never tear off more roof than they can waterproof by the end of each work day. If rain does catch them mid-project, they should have tarps and protocols ready immediately.

What to expect: A specific weather protection plan, confirmation they will not over-expose your roof, and emergency tarping included at no extra cost.

16. Do You Use Subcontractors or Your Own Crew?

Some roofing companies subcontract the actual installation to third-party crews. This is not necessarily bad, but you should know who is working on your roof. If they use subcontractors, ask whether those subs are also licensed and insured, and who is responsible for their workmanship.

Companies that employ their own trained crews typically have better quality control, more consistent results, and clearer accountability. If a subcontractor makes a mistake, the finger-pointing between companies can leave you stuck in the middle.

What to expect: Clear disclosure of whether they use in-house crews or subcontractors, proof of sub insurance if applicable, and who holds warranty responsibility.

17. What Exactly Is Included in the Price?

Hidden costs are one of the most common complaints about roofing projects. Ask the contractor to confirm what is included: tear-off and disposal of old roofing, new underlayment, ice and water shield, drip edge, flashing, ridge vents, pipe boots, and cleanup. Also ask what is not included.

Common items that get left out of cheap estimates: wood decking replacement, ice and water shield in valleys and along eaves, new pipe boots and flashing, proper ridge ventilation, and permit fees. These add up quickly and turn a "low bid" into an expensive surprise.

What to expect: An itemized list of everything included, explicit disclosure of exclusions, and a statement that the price is a "not-to-exceed" amount barring unforeseen structural issues.

18. Do You Offer Emergency Roofing Services?

Ask whether the contractor provides emergency roofing repair services. This tells you two things: they have the capacity and infrastructure to respond quickly, and they will be there for you after the sale if something goes wrong.

In northern New Jersey, winter storms, heavy snow loads, and high winds can cause sudden roof damage. Knowing your contractor offers emergency response gives you peace of mind long after the initial project is completed.

What to expect: 24/7 emergency response availability, a phone number to call for urgent issues, and typical response times in your area.

19. What Certifications Do You Have?

Beyond a basic license, look for manufacturer certifications from companies like GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed. These certifications mean the contractor has been trained and approved by the manufacturer to install their products, and it often unlocks enhanced warranty coverage for you.

For example, a GAF Master Elite contractor (only 3% of roofers qualify) can offer GAF's Golden Pledge Warranty, which covers both materials and workmanship for up to 50 years. Without certification, you may only get the basic material warranty.

What to expect: List of current manufacturer certifications, membership in industry associations (NRCA), and any specialized training certifications.

20. Can You Walk Me Through the Contract Terms?

Before signing anything, ask the contractor to walk you through the entire contract. Key items to review: scope of work, total cost, payment schedule (never more than 1/3 upfront in NJ), start and completion dates, warranty terms, change order process, and cancellation policy.

New Jersey law gives homeowners a 3-day right to cancel home improvement contracts. The contract must include this notice. If a contractor pressures you to sign immediately or insists on starting work the same day, that is a major red flag.

What to expect: A clear, readable contract that the contractor is willing to explain line by line. They should encourage you to take it home and review it before signing.

Red Flags When Hiring a Roofer

Knowing what to look for is only half the equation. You also need to know what to watch out for. Here are the warning signs that should stop you from hiring a roofing contractor, no matter how good their price looks.

Walk Away Immediately If You See These:

Door-to-door solicitation after a storm - "Storm chasers" follow severe weather events, knock on doors, and push quick decisions. They often do subpar work and disappear before you discover problems.
Demands for full payment upfront - NJ law limits initial deposits. A demand for full payment before work begins is a scam indicator.
No physical business address - If they can only provide a P.O. box or cell phone number, they may not be around to honor warranties.
Cash-only payment requests - Professional contractors accept checks, credit cards, and financing. Cash-only demands often mean they are avoiding tax records and accountability.
Refuses to provide insurance certificates - If they will not show you proof of insurance, they likely do not have it. This exposes you to serious liability.
Verbal-only quotes - No written estimate means no accountability. Everything should be documented.
Pressure to sign immediately - "This price is only good today" is a high-pressure sales tactic. A fair price will still be fair tomorrow.
Suggests skipping permits - This saves the contractor money at your expense. Unpermitted work can void insurance, cause problems when selling, and may not be code-compliant.
Offers to waive your insurance deductible - This is insurance fraud in New Jersey and puts both you and the contractor at legal risk.
No online presence or reviews - In 2026, any legitimate business has a web presence. No website, no Google reviews, and no social media is a red flag.

Why NJ Homeowners Choose R&E Roofing

At R&E Roofing, we believe the best way to earn your business is to answer every question honestly and completely. Here is how we respond to all 20 questions on this checklist:

1. Licensed & Insured?

Yes. We hold a current NJ Home Improvement Contractor registration, carry $1 million+ in general liability insurance, and maintain full workers' compensation coverage. We provide certificates upon request.

2. How Long in Business?

Over 25 years. R&E Roofing has served Essex County and the surrounding NJ area since 2000, headquartered at 573 Valley Street, Orange, NJ 07050.

3. Local References?

Absolutely. We provide references from homeowners in your town and invite you to read our verified Google and BBB reviews.

4. Written Estimate?

Every estimate is detailed, written, and itemized. We break down materials, labor, disposal, permits, and any optional upgrades so you can compare apples to apples.

5. Material Recommendations?

We offer multiple options at different price points and explain why each is suited (or not) for your specific roof and New Jersey's climate. No one-size-fits-all upselling.

6. Warranties?

We offer a 25-year workmanship warranty on top of manufacturer material warranties. Our warranty is transferable and provided in writing as part of your contract.

7. On-Site Management?

A dedicated project manager oversees every job. You will have their name and direct phone number before work begins.

8. Unexpected Issues?

We stop, document, photograph, and present options with pricing. No additional work is performed without your written approval.

9. Permits?

We handle all permits as a standard part of our service, including scheduling and attending inspections. Permit costs are included in your estimate.

10. Timeline?

We provide specific start and completion dates in your contract, along with daily communication about progress and any weather-related adjustments.

11. Financing?

Yes. We offer flexible financing options through trusted lending partners. Zero pressure to use them. We present options so you can choose what works for your budget.

12. Cleanup?

Full daily cleanup including magnetic nail sweeps of your entire property. We treat your home like it is our own. A final walkthrough with you confirms the job meets your standards.

13. Insurance Claims?

We have extensive experience with insurance claims, will meet your adjuster on-site, and provide all documentation needed to support your claim.

14. Recent Work Photos?

We maintain an extensive portfolio and can show you completed projects throughout Essex County. Drive-by visits are welcome.

15. Rain Protection?

We monitor forecasts daily, never over-expose your roof, and have emergency tarping protocols ready at every job site. Your home stays protected no matter what.

16. Subcontractors?

We use our own trained crews for the majority of our work. When specialized subcontractors are used, they are fully licensed, insured, and supervised by our project manager.

17. What's Included?

Our estimates are comprehensive: tear-off, disposal, new underlayment, ice and water shield, drip edge, flashing, ridge vents, pipe boots, permits, cleanup, and final roof inspection. No hidden charges.

18. Emergency Services?

Yes. We provide 24/7 emergency roof repair throughout Essex County with typical response times of 60 to 90 minutes.

19. Certifications?

We hold manufacturer certifications and maintain memberships in industry associations. Our team regularly completes continuing education in roofing technology and best practices.

20. Contract Transparency?

We walk every customer through the contract line by line. We encourage you to take it home, read it, and ask questions. No pressure, no rush, no fine print surprises.

NJ-Specific Contractor Requirements

New Jersey has some of the strongest consumer protection laws in the country when it comes to home improvement contractors. Understanding these rules helps you identify legitimate contractors and protect yourself.

Home Improvement Contractor Registration

All roofing contractors in NJ must be registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC). Verify registration at njconsumeraffairs.gov. Operating without registration is illegal and punishable by fines up to $10,000 per violation.

Written Contract Requirements

NJ law requires a written contract for any home improvement project exceeding $500. The contract must include: contractor's legal name and HIC number, total price, payment schedule, start and completion dates, description of work and materials, and a notice of your 3-day cancellation right.

Deposit Limits

New Jersey limits the initial deposit a contractor can collect to one-third (33.3%) of the total contract price. Any contractor demanding more upfront is violating state law.

3-Day Cancellation Right

Homeowners have a 3-business-day right to cancel any home improvement contract without penalty. This applies to contracts signed at your home, not at the contractor's place of business. The cancellation notice must be included in the contract.

Building Permits

Roof replacements in NJ require a building permit from your local municipality. The contractor is responsible for obtaining permits and scheduling inspections. Permit fees vary by town (typically $100 to $500 in Essex County) and should be included in your estimate.

Insurance Requirements

While NJ does not mandate specific insurance minimums for HIC registrants, reputable contractors carry general liability insurance ($1 million+) and workers' compensation insurance. Always request and verify current certificates of insurance before work begins.

How to File a Complaint in NJ:

If you have a dispute with a roofing contractor, file a complaint with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs at (973) 504-6200 or online at njconsumeraffairs.gov. You can also file with the Better Business Bureau. Document everything: contracts, photos, correspondence, and payment records.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important question to ask a roofer before hiring?

The most important question is "Are you licensed and insured?" In New Jersey, roofing contractors must hold a valid Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration. Always ask for proof of both general liability insurance ($1 million minimum) and workers' compensation coverage. Without these, you could be financially responsible for injuries or property damage during the project.

How many roofing estimates should I get before hiring?

Get at least 3 written estimates from licensed roofing contractors. This gives you a fair comparison of pricing, materials, warranties, and approach. Be cautious of bids significantly lower than others, as this often indicates inferior materials, skipped steps, or unlicensed workers. Focus on value and reputation rather than the cheapest option.

Should a roofer provide a written contract before starting work?

Absolutely. New Jersey law requires a written contract for any home improvement project over $500. The contract should include a detailed scope of work, total cost with payment schedule, materials to be used, project timeline, warranty terms, permit responsibilities, and cancellation policy. Never pay more than one-third upfront, and never pay in full before the work is completed and inspected.

How do I verify a roofer is licensed in New Jersey?

Verify a NJ roofing contractor's license through the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs website (njconsumeraffairs.gov). Search their Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration number. You can also check for complaints through the Better Business Bureau and look up their business registration with the NJ Division of Revenue. A legitimate contractor provides this information willingly.

Get Your Questions Answered - Schedule a Free Consultation

Hiring a roofer does not have to be stressful. Armed with these 20 questions, you can confidently evaluate any contractor and make an informed decision that protects your home and your budget.

At R&E Roofing, we welcome tough questions because we know our answers set us apart. With 25+ years serving Essex County, a 25-year workmanship warranty, and transparent pricing on every project, we have built our reputation on earning trust the old-fashioned way: through honest work and straight answers.

Ready to see the difference? Schedule a free roof inspection and bring this checklist with you. We will answer every question on this list and provide a detailed, no-obligation written estimate for your roof repair or replacement project.

Get Honest Answers from Trusted NJ Roofers

R&E Roofing provides transparent estimates, answers every question upfront, and backs our work with a 25-year workmanship warranty. See why Essex County homeowners trust us with their biggest investment.

Free inspections and detailed written estimates
25+ years serving Essex County, NJ
Licensed, insured & NJ HIC registered
25-year workmanship warranty
Financing options available
5-star Google reviews

Call (667) 204-1609 Get Free Estimate

Quick Checklist Summary

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