ServiCover📌 Key Takeaway: The best predictor of a good roof is a good installer. Verify license and insurance, compare at least three itemized bids, and get both the manufacturer warranty and the contractor's workmanship warranty in writing.
The Vetting Checklist
- License — verify with your state contractor board where roofing licenses are required.
- Insurance — ask for certificates of general liability and workers' compensation, issued directly from the insurer.
- Local address and history — a physical office and years of local references matter after the job is done.
- Manufacturer certification — GAF, Owens Corning or CertainTeed credentials unlock stronger system warranties.
- Written, itemized estimate — materials by brand and product line, tear-off, underlayment, ventilation and decking allowance.
- Workmanship warranty — look for at least 5-10 years from the contractor, separate from the shingle warranty.
Questions to Ask Every Roofer
- Who will be on my roof — your crew or subcontractors?
- How do you handle rotted decking, and what's the per-sheet price?
- What ventilation changes, if any, do you recommend and why?
- Who pulls the permit, and who schedules the final inspection?
- How will you protect landscaping, and how do you clean up nails?
Red Flags
- Door-to-door "storm chasers" right after hail or wind events, especially with out-of-state plates
- Large upfront deposits — a reasonable deposit covers materials; paying most of the job in advance is risky
- Offers to "cover your deductible" — this can amount to insurance fraud in many states
- Pressure to sign an insurance assignment before you've spoken to your insurer
- No written contract or vague line items
Understanding the Two Warranties
| Warranty Type | Who Backs It | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer material warranty | Shingle maker | Defective shingles; often prorated after an initial period |
| Enhanced system warranty | Shingle maker (certified installers only) | Full system components, sometimes workmanship |
| Workmanship warranty | Your contractor | Installation errors — the most common cause of failures |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many roofing quotes should I get?
At least three. It shows you the local price range and makes it easier to spot quotes that leave out tear-off, ventilation or decking.
Should I pay a roofer in full before the job?
No. Common structures are a modest deposit, with the balance due on completion and after you've inspected the work.
🔎 How we research: The ServiCover Editorial Team compiles prices and guidance from published 2026 cost guides, manufacturer information and industry sources. Prices are national ranges and vary by location, home and provider, so always compare written quotes. We don't perform the work ourselves, and we may earn a commission when you request quotes through our partners — see our Advertiser Disclosure.