Questions You Need to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

July 16, 2025

Hiring a roofing contractor in Durham, NC isn’t a decision to take lightly. Your roof is one of your home’s most important systems, and the contractor you choose will have a direct impact on its long-term performance and durability. With so many companies offering similar services, it’s essential to ask the right questions during the selection process to ensure you hire a contractor who is honest, qualified, and experienced.

Knowing what to ask will help you identify red flags, understand the project scope, and gain peace of mind knowing your home is in capable hands.

Are You Licensed and Insured?

This is one of the first questions you should ask any contractor. In North Carolina, roofers must meet specific licensing requirements to legally operate. Additionally, any contractor you hire should carry both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you if damage occurs to your property or someone gets injured on the job.

Never assume a contractor is licensed or insured—ask to see physical documentation and verify it with local authorities. Reputable roofers will never hesitate to show their credentials.

How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience matters. A contractor with years of hands-on knowledge is more likely to deliver high-quality results and navigate unexpected challenges. Ask how long the company has been in business and whether they’ve worked on homes similar to yours.

While newer companies aren’t necessarily bad, longevity can be a sign of consistent performance, customer satisfaction, and financial stability.

Can You Provide Local References?

Don’t just take their word for it—ask for references from past clients, particularly from the Durham area. Speaking to previous customers gives you a clearer picture of the contractor’s communication style, professionalism, and workmanship.

If the contractor hesitates or provides vague answers, it could indicate they have something to hide. A well-established company should have a list of happy clients willing to share their experiences.

What Is the Warranty on Your Work?

A strong warranty reflects a contractor’s confidence in their work. There are typically two types of warranties to consider: one from the manufacturer covering the roofing materials, and another from the contractor covering labor and installation.

Ask for specifics about each warranty, including length, what’s covered, and any maintenance requirements. Companies like Rhino Roofing in Durham offer transparent, written warranties backed by both their workmanship and trusted manufacturers.

What Materials Do You Recommend and Why?

Roofing materials vary widely in terms of price, durability, and aesthetics. Ask your contractor which materials they recommend and why those choices are suitable for your home’s needs and the local climate.

Top brands like GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed are known for their durability and strong warranties. Contractors who regularly use and recommend these brands demonstrate a commitment to quality.

How Will You Protect My Property During the Project?

Roofing is a messy and disruptive job, so it’s important to ask how the contractor plans to protect your landscaping, siding, gutters, and driveway during the process. A responsible roofer will use tarps, plywood, and other barriers to prevent damage.

Also ask how they plan to handle cleanup after the project is complete. Will nails and debris be picked up? Is a magnet sweep included? These are details that can impact your overall satisfaction.

What Is the Payment Schedule?

Avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront. A clear, reasonable payment structure usually includes a deposit followed by payments tied to project milestones or completion.

Everything should be documented in a written contract to avoid surprises. Make sure the agreement also includes timelines, materials, warranty details, and change-order procedures.

Who Will Be On-Site Managing the Job?

Clarify whether the person you’re speaking with will actually be present during the job or if the work will be subcontracted. It’s important to know who your main point of contact will be and how they will oversee quality control.

Some companies rely on subcontractors who may not share the same level of accountability or skill. Choose a contractor with in-house crews or who directly manages subcontractors on-site.

Hiring a roofer isn’t just about price—it’s about trust. By asking the right questions, you’ll better understand who you’re working with and what to expect. Roofing is a long-term investment, and taking the time to choose the right contractor will pay off in quality, performance, and peace of mind.

Read also our blog: Searching for a Reputable Ro

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