7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor | Roofing Experts 360
A roof replacement or repair is a big investment and the quality of the work depends entirely on the contractor you choose. In a market like Seattle or Renton, where the weather can be harsh and roofs take a beating, you need someone who’s reliable, local, and experienced.
At Roofing Experts 360, we’ve seen too many homeowners fall for low bids and end up with poor workmanship or unlicensed crews. Don’t let that be you.
Here are 7 questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a roofer.
1. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
This is non-negotiable. Roofing involves ladders, tools, and potential hazards. If a contractor isn’t licensed or insured, you could be held liable for damages or injuries.
Ask for their Washington contractor license #
Verify liability and workers’ comp insurance
Request proof in writing
2. What Local Areas Do You Serve?
Hiring a local roofer ensures they understand:
Seattle and Tacoma’s rainy seasons
Local building codes and permits
Nearby suppliers and materials
Ask: “How long have you served my city?” and “Can I see projects you’ve completed nearby?”
3. Can You Provide Recent References or Reviews?
Any reputable roofer should have:
A list of satisfied customers
Positive Google, Yelp, or BBB reviews
Photos of recent work (before/after)
Call at least 2 references and ask:
“Did the crew show up on time?”
“Did they finish the job as promised?”
“How’s your roof holding up now?”
4. What Warranty Do You Offer?
There are usually two warranties:
Manufacturer’s Warranty: Covers roofing materials
Workmanship Warranty: Covers installation errors
Tip: Ask how long each warranty lasts, what it covers, and whether it’s transferable if you sell your home.
5. What Will the Estimate Include?
A clear written estimate should list:
Materials (type, brand, quantity)
Labor costs
Cleanup/removal
Permits and warranty details
Avoid vague pricing. A good roofer will walk you through the estimate line by line.
6. Will You Pull the Permits?
In most Washington cities, roof replacements require permits. Make sure your contractor:
Knows which permits are needed
Handles the process with the city
Includes permit fees in the quote
If a roofer asks you to pull permits, it’s a red flag.
7. Who Will Be Onsite Managing the Project?
Ask:
“Will you be supervising the crew?”
“How will we communicate during the job?”
“What’s the protocol if I have a concern?”
You want clear answers, a direct contact person, and project accountability.
Final Thought: Trust Is Non-Negotiable
The roof is your home’s first defense against storms, leaks, and damage. Choosing the wrong contractor can cost you thousands in repairs—not to mention headaches and delays.
At Roofing Experts 360, we vet and verify every roofer in our network to ensure you get:
Licensed professionals
Transparent pricing
Local service across Seattle, Renton, Tacoma, and beyond
Get a Free, No-Obligation Roofing Estimate Today
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