How to choose a roofing contractor: A checklist
Last updated
Short answer: Verify the contractor's license and insurance, get more than one written estimate, and read the whole contract before you sign. Pay a reasonable deposit by check or card, never in full up front, and never sign over your insurance check. Search for complaints. These steps follow the FTC's advice for hiring any home-repair contractor.[1]
The FTC's advice for hiring any home-repair contractor applies directly to roofing.[1][2]
What should you check before hiring a roofer?
- Verify the license and insurance. Confirm the license with your state or county and ask for proof of insurance.[1] Examples: Arizona's ROC (R-42 roofing)[3], Illinois IDFPR, Minnesota DLI, Utah DOPL (S280), Nevada's NSCB (C-15), and the Kansas Attorney General's roofing registration.
- Get more than one written estimate with the scope, materials, timeline, and price. Don't automatically pick the lowest, and ask why prices differ.[1]
- Read the contract. It should include the contractor's name, address, and license number; start and finish dates; the payment schedule; and every promise made verbally. It should have no blank spaces. If you signed at home, it should explain your right to cancel within three business days.[1]
- Pay safely. Make a reasonable down payment. Pay by check or card, never by wire, gift card, or crypto, and make the final payment only after the work is done.[1]
- Check reviews and complaints. Search the company name along with "complaint" or "scam."[1]
- Don't let the roofer handle your insurance decisions. The FTC says not to rely on a contractor to tell you what's covered and never to sign over your insurance check.[1]
When you request a free inspection through this site, you'll be connected with a local roofing contractor serving your area. Use the same checklist with them. You're never obligated to hire anyone.
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Leave your name and number and a local roofing contractor will call you back about a free estimate and inspection. Available to homeowners in our service markets.
- A local contractor calls you. They confirm your address and a time that works.
- They inspect your roof. Free, in person, no obligation.
- You get a written price. You decide. No pressure.
Frequently asked questions
What questions should I ask a roofer?
Ask for their license number, proof of insurance, a written itemized estimate, who will be on site, the timeline, the warranty terms, and the payment schedule.
How many estimates should I get?
The FTC suggests getting estimates from more than one contractor. Three is a common rule of thumb.
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Sources
- FTC, How to Avoid Scams After Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters. consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scams-after-weather-emergencies-and-natural-
- FTC, How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam. consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-home-improvement-scam
- Arizona ROC, License classifications. roc.az.gov/license-classifications
Sources checked November 4, 2026. Estimates are not quotes. Roofing, insurance, and legal details vary. Confirm with your contractor, insurer, or attorney.