10 Questions to Ask Roofing Contractors Before Hiring Them
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you from the elements, adds curb appeal, and helps with energy efficiency. Whether you need a roof repair or a full roof replacement, hiring the right roofing contractor is crucial to ensuring a durable, high-quality result.
With so many options available, how do you choose the best contractor? Asking the right questions before signing a contract can help you make an informed decision and avoid costly mistakes. Bonac Builders believes in transparency and quality craftsmanship, so we’ve put together a list of the top 10 questions you should ask any roofing contractor before hiring them.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Hiring a licensed roofing contractor ensures they meet the necessary state and local requirements. Additionally, insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the project. Make sure your contractor has:
General liability insurance (covers property damage)
Workers' compensation insurance (protects workers in case of injury)
Bonac Builders is fully licensed and insured, so you can trust that your home is in good hands.
2. How Long Have You Been in the Roofing Business?
Experience matters when it comes to roof repair and roof replacement. A contractor with years of experience has encountered a variety of challenges and knows how to handle unexpected issues that may arise during the job.
Why it’s important:
Experienced contractors know how to install and repair all roofing materials properly.
A long-standing reputation means a company is less likely to disappear after the job is done.
Bonac Builders has been serving Long Island homeowners for over 15 years, specializing in a wide range of roofing services.
3. Can You Provide References or a Portfolio of Past Work?
A reliable contractor should be able to provide a list of previous customers and examples of completed roofing projects. Checking reviews and testimonials can also help verify their reputation.
What to look for:
Before-and-after photos of roof replacements
Testimonials from past clients
A portfolio of different roofing materials used on projects
Take a look at Bonac Builders’ portfolio to see our high-quality craftsmanship in action.
4. What Roofing Materials Do You Offer?
Different roofing materials have different lifespans, costs, and maintenance requirements. Ask the contractor what options they provide and which material best suits your home’s needs.
Common Roofing Materials:
Asphalt roofing – Affordable, durable, and versatile
Wood roofing - Naturally beautiful and eco-friendly
Metal roofing – Long-lasting and energy-efficient
Slate roofing – High-end, luxury roofing with a lifespan of over 100 years
Tile roofing – Durable and classic
5. Do You Provide a Written Estimate?
A detailed, written estimate prevents misunderstandings and unexpected costs. The estimate should include:
✔ Cost of materials and labor
✔ Expected project timeline
✔ Payment schedule and potential additional costs
Bonac Builders provides transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees, so you know exactly what to expect.
6. What Is the Expected Timeline for the Project?
Understanding how long your roof replacement or repair will take helps with planning and avoids unnecessary disruptions.
Key factors that affect project timelines:
Size of the roof – Larger homes take longer to complete.
Weather conditions – Rain or snow can delay the process.
Type of roofing material – Slate roofing and metal roofing may take longer to install than asphalt roofing.
We provide homeowners with a realistic timeline and keep them informed throughout the project.
7. Do You Offer Roofing Warranties?
A quality roof replacement should come with both a material warranty and a workmanship warranty.
Manufacturer warranty – Covers defects in the roofing materials (varies by brand).
Workmanship warranty – Covers the contractor’s installation work.
Bonac Builders stands by our craftsmanship with comprehensive warranties on both materials and labor.
8. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues or Additional Costs?
Sometimes, hidden problems are discovered during a roof replacement.
Ask your contractor:
How will additional costs be communicated?
Will I have to approve extra charges before work continues?
What happens if a major issue is found?
We always discuss unexpected findings with homeowners before making any changes to the scope of work.
9. What Safety Measures Do You Take?
Roofing is dangerous work, and your contractor should have proper safety procedures in place to protect workers and your property.
A professional roofing contractor should:
· Follow OSHA safety guidelines
· Use protective equipment
· Have a trained and experienced crew
At Bonac Builders, safety is our top priority, and we ensure that all workers follow industry-standard protocols.
10. Do You Provide a Cleanup Plan After the Job?
Once your roof replacement is complete, your yard shouldn’t be left with debris, nails, or old roofing materials. A professional roofing contractor should:
Remove all leftover materials
Leave your property as clean as they found it
We take clean-up seriously and ensure your home is spotless once the job is done.
Why Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor Matters
By asking these 10 essential questions, you can protect your investment and ensure your new roof installation lasts for decades. Choosing an experienced, transparent, and reliable contractor is key to getting a high-quality roof replacement.
Why Bonac Builders Is the Right Choice for Your Roofing Needs
· Licensed and insured roofing contractors
· Over 15 years of experience in roof replacement and repair
· Competitive pricing with detailed written estimates
· Workmanship warranties for peace of mind
Conclusion
Your roof is too important to trust to just anyone. Before hiring a roofing contractor, make sure they answer these 10 key questions with transparency and confidence.
Ready to upgrade your roof? Contact Bonac Builders today for a free consultation and experience expert roofing services you can trust!