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Hiring Guide

How to Hire a Roofer: Complete 2026 Checklist

Your roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements. Whether you need a repair, replacement, or new installation, hiring a qualified roofer protects one of your most valuable assets. A botched roofing job can lead to leaks, mold, structural damage, and voided warranties.

$5000–$15000 per roof replacement10-step checklist8 red flags

10-Step Hiring Checklist

Follow these steps before hiring any roofer.

  1. 1

    Verify licensing and credentials

    Check your state's licensing board to confirm the roofer has an active license. Some states require a specific roofing license; others include it under general contracting.

  2. 2

    Confirm insurance coverage

    Roofing is high-risk work. Verify general liability insurance (minimum $1M) and workers' compensation. Get certificates directly from the insurer.

  3. 3

    Get at least three written estimates

    Each estimate should detail materials, labor, tear-off costs, disposal fees, and timeline. Be wary of bids that are significantly lower than others.

  4. 4

    Ask about material options and warranties

    Discuss shingle types, underlayment, and ventilation. Understand the difference between the manufacturer's material warranty and the roofer's workmanship warranty.

  5. 5

    Check for manufacturer certifications

    Top roofers are certified by manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed. Certified installers can offer extended warranties.

  6. 6

    Review their work history

    Ask for photos of recent roofing projects and contact information for at least three references.

  7. 7

    Confirm they handle permits and inspections

    Roof replacements require permits in most jurisdictions. The roofer should handle the permit process and ensure the work passes inspection.

  8. 8

    Discuss the tear-off process

    Overlaying new shingles on old ones is cheaper but can mask problems. A full tear-off to the decking is usually the better long-term investment.

  9. 9

    Understand the payment terms

    A reasonable deposit is 10-20%. Never pay in full before the job is complete. Tie payments to project milestones.

  10. 10

    Get the contract in writing

    The contract should specify materials, colors, scope, timeline, cleanup, disposal, payment schedule, and all warranty terms.

Red Flags to Watch For

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

  1. 1How long have you been in the roofing business locally?
  2. 2What roofing materials do you recommend for my home and climate?
  3. 3Will you do a full tear-off or overlay?
  4. 4What manufacturer certifications do you hold?
  5. 5What is your workmanship warranty, and how long does it last?
  6. 6Who will be the on-site supervisor?
  7. 7How do you handle unexpected repairs to decking or flashing?
  8. 8What is included in cleanup and disposal?

What to Verify

Confirm all of the following before signing a contract with any roofer.

Average Cost

$5,000–$15,000per roof replacement

Prices vary by location, project complexity, and the roofer's experience. Always get multiple written estimates before making a decision.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a new roof cost?
A new asphalt shingle roof for an average-sized home (1,500-2,500 sq ft) typically costs $5,000 to $15,000. Metal roofing runs $10,000 to $25,000, and tile roofing can exceed $30,000. Factors include roof size, pitch, material, tear-off needs, and local labor rates.
How long does a roof replacement take?
Most residential roof replacements take one to three days for asphalt shingles. Metal or tile roofs may take a week or more. Weather, roof complexity, and the need for structural repairs can extend the timeline.
How do I know if I need a new roof or just a repair?
If your roof is under 15 years old and the damage is localized (a few missing shingles, a small leak), a repair is usually sufficient. If the roof is over 20 years old, has widespread granule loss, multiple leaks, or visible sagging, a replacement is the better investment.
Should I file an insurance claim for roof damage?
If the damage is caused by a covered event like hail, wind, or a fallen tree, filing a claim is usually worth it. Document the damage with photos before any temporary repairs. Have the insurance adjuster inspect before signing a contract. Be cautious of roofers who offer to 'handle' your insurance claim.

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