Learn the important questions to ask before hiring a roofer, from qualifications to timelines. Protect your property with the right roofing contractor.
Hiring the right roofer for your home is an important step in protecting your property. Your roof plays a key role in shielding your house from weather damage and keeping everything inside safe and dry.
Whether you're planning a small repair or a full replacement, asking the right questions before hiring someone can help you avoid future problems, manage costs, and ensure the job is done properly.
Are You Fully Qualified and Insured?
Before any work begins, it's essential to ask if the roofer is fully qualified and holds valid insurance. A qualified roofer will have the proper training and certifications for the type of roof work you need. Insurance is just as important, especially public liability cover, which protects both your home and the contractor if something goes wrong during the job.
Taking the time to check their qualifications can save you from a lot of stress later. If a roofer is unwilling to provide proof of insurance or certificates, that’s a strong signal to look elsewhere. Reputable companies are happy to provide these details because they know it builds trust and shows their business is legitimate.
How Much Experience Do You Have?
Experience often reflects the quality of work you can expect. It's worth asking how long the roofer has been working in the trade and what types of jobs they’ve completed in the past. Some roofers may focus on repairs while others take on larger projects like full replacements or complex roof designs.
By understanding their background, you can ensure they have dealt with similar roofing issues to yours. Experienced roofers are more likely to anticipate complications and know how to handle them efficiently. This can be especially important if your home has an older roof or uses specific materials that require specialist knowledge.
Can I See Reviews or Past Work?
One of the best ways to check the quality of a roofer’s work is by asking to see previous jobs they’ve completed. This might include photos of past projects or feedback from previous clients in your area. A company that takes pride in its work will often have a portfolio ready to show and won’t hesitate to provide references if you ask.
Reading reviews or even contacting former customers directly can help you get a better idea of what to expect. It’s a chance to find out if the roofer kept to the agreed time, if the cost matched the quote, and if any issues were handled professionally. A good track record speaks volumes and can help you feel more confident when hiring.
Will You Give Me a Written Quote?
It’s important to ask for a clear, written quote before agreeing to any work. This quote should outline the full cost of the job, including materials, labour, and any possible extras. Without a written agreement, you might face unexpected charges or misunderstandings once the work begins.
Getting everything in writing helps protect you and sets clear expectations from the start. It also allows you to compare different roofers and decide who offers the best value for your money. A professional contractor will have no problem providing a detailed quote and explaining what’s included.
How Long Will the Job Take?
Time is another factor you need to consider when hiring a roofer. Ask how long the job is expected to take and what might affect that schedule. Weather can often cause delays, especially with roof work, so it’s good to know how the company handles that and whether it will impact the cost or quality of the work.
You should also find out whether the roofer works alone or as part of a team. Larger companies might send several people to speed up the job, while independent roofers may take longer, depending on their availability. Understanding the timeline helps you plan around the work and ensures you’re not left with an unfinished roof for too long.
At Red Ridge Roofing, we provide expert roof repair services across Ascot, Farnborough, and Bracknell. Whether your roof is leaking, tiles are missing, or flashing is loose, our experienced team is ready to respond quickly and professionally to protect your home or business.
