Picking someone to sort out your roof feels like a big step, doesn’t it? Most people only need to call in a roofer a handful of times, so it’s normal to feel a mix of nerves and confusion when you start looking. This is your roof we’re talking about—it keeps the rain out, protects your family, and gives you peace of mind. Handing over such a responsibility shouldn’t be taken lightly. So, how do you know you’re trusting the right person with such a key part of your home? You ask questions. Not just any questions—the right ones that get you to the heart of whether they’re up to scratch.
Have a chat with a few roofers before you pick. The best roofing companies will actually be keen to answer your questions. Anyone who gets grumpy or cagey? You might want to think twice. Here are five of the most important questions, plus some extra tips that can save you hassle down the line.
Are You Licensed and Certified?
Let’s get the basics sorted first. You wouldn’t hand your keys to someone without a proper driving licence, so why let just anybody loose on your roof? Find out straight away what paperwork they’ve got.
- Keeps things above board: A roofer with a licence knows their trade and stays on the right side of local laws.
- Industry memberships are gold: Associations like the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) only let in contractors who put safety and quality first.
- Red flags: Waffling, paper dodging, or making excuses when you ask for proof.
Here’s an example: Someone in Yorkshire once shared how her roofer’s NFRC badge made her feel settled from day one. The job sailed through without a single hiccup, just as she hoped.
Would you really feel comfortable with someone clambering about on your roof if they can’t show you they’ve had the proper training?
Do You Have Insurance Coverage?
Life throws curveballs. Even the most careful tradespeople can have a mishap. That’s why insurance isn’t something to gloss over—it’s as important as the tools in their van. Before anything starts, ask to see their insurance details. You’re not being awkward, just smart.
Here’s what to check:
- Public liability insurance: This covers any damage to your house or the property next door while they’re working.
- Employers’ liability insurance: Makes sure those working at your home are protected if someone gets hurt.
- Contract works insurance: Provides a safety net if bad weather or other surprises disrupt the work.
Don’t be embarrassed. An honest roofer will hand over this information with a smile.
A true story: A family in Birmingham once had a solar panel knocked loose during a job. There was no fuss. The roofer’s insurance took care of the repair, and the work carried on after a quick chat and a cuppa.
Could you really sleep well knowing you might be stuck with a huge repair bill because someone else made a mistake?
Can You Share References or Real Examples of Past Work?
Most of us want to see proof before we commit, so don’t hold back from asking for references. A genuine tradesperson should be proud to show off their past work.
- Get real feedback: Names and numbers help, as do before-and-after photos or a conversation with a previous client.
- See if they fit your project: Ask if they’ve tackled similar jobs—tile, slate, flat roof, or anything specific to your home.
- Steer clear if they stall: A roofer who fumbles for reasons not to share examples could be hiding something.
For example, a lady in Devon was torn between two roofers, unsure who’d fit her budget or needs best. After a reassuring chat with a couple of the roofer’s old customers, she went with the one who stood by their word—and she had no regrets.
If you dig around, does the feedback you get match what your roofer is telling you? Or is there a disconnect?
Ask Around and Go Online
Friends, family, and neighbours are a great resource, but don’t forget the internet. Places like Checkatrade and Trustpilot can shine a light on regular patterns—are reviews consistently positive or do complaints crop up again and again?
- Check how issues are handled: Sometimes things go wrong; it’s their attitude to putting things right that matters.
- See their work: If your home has special requirements, ask to see a similar job they’ve done. A Cardiff homeowner did this for a fancy slate roof and felt much more confident signing up.
What Kind of Warranties Do You Offer?
A decent roofer sticks around if something goes wrong, rather than disappearing once the invoice is paid. That’s why understanding their warranties before you agree to anything is fundamental.
- Workmanship warranty: This sorts out mistakes in the actual fitting or installation. How long is it for, and what’s covered?
- Manufacturer warranty: This backs you up if the tiles or materials are faulty.
- Paper beats promises: Always get it written down. Verbal agreements might sound fine now, but paperwork keeps everyone honest.
For instance, a woman in Liverpool picked a roofer who offered a proper ten-year warranty in writing. When a small leak appeared by the chimney a few years after, the team came back and sorted it without question or extra charge.
Would you rather take your chances if problems pop up—or do you want it in black and white, just in case?
How Will We Stay in Touch During the Project?
Feeling out of the loop when work’s going on at your house can be stressful. That’s why it’s worth agreeing from the start how you’ll communicate.
- Who’s your contact? Will it be the boss, a foreman, or someone else entirely?
- How often will they update you? Do you want daily check-ins, or is a weekly catch-up more your style?
- How do you reach them? Whether by phone, text, or WhatsApp, knowing what works best avoids missed messages.
Here’s a recent example: In Bristol, a homeowner felt anxious at first, worried about unexpected surprises. The roofer nipped this in the bud by setting up regular check-ins—making sure everyone always knew what was next or if plans needed changing.
- If a roofer resists: Should you have to chase for updates? A reluctance to commit to contact could spell trouble later.
Would you be happy not knowing what’s happening up on your roof—or do regular updates sound more reassuring?
When Surprises Crop Up
Sometimes, opening up a roof reveals unexpected issues. Maybe rotten beams, extra leaks, or worse. So, clear it up from the start:
- Will the roofer tell you about new issues straight away?
- How will extra costs be discussed and agreed?
- Will they get your go-ahead before any new work starts?
Make sure these points are included in your contract. When something comes up, you’ll be glad there are no misunderstandings.
Other Things Worth Asking
Those five questions set you up well, but a few others are just as handy:
- How are quotes put together? Look for detailed and transparent breakdowns—including materials, scaffolding, rubbish removal and more.
- What’s your experience with my type of roof? Don’t settle for guesses if your property is unusual or old.
- What about health and safety? Any roofer should make safety for their team and your home a top priority.
A man down in Southampton appreciated getting a thorough quote that covered even the little things—like what would happen if the hire skip filled up early. That level of detail gave him peace of mind.
After all your chats, do you feel more certain—or are you still left with doubts? Trust your instincts.
The Bottom Line
Getting a new roof or a repair isn’t a little job, and you shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions—after all, it’s your home at stake. Reliable roofers understand that you want to feel informed and confident; they’ll happily share information, documents, and real examples. If anyone grumbles or tries to make you feel awkward, it likely means something’s not quite right.
Trust how you feel after those first conversations. Look for honesty, paperwork that backs up their promises, and straightforward answers. The best contractors want you to understand what you’re paying for—they know that happy clients shout loudest and recommend them to friends and neighbours.
So, take your time, speak up, and walk away from anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable. There’s a roofer out there who will treat your home with as much care as you do. That’s exactly who you want working over your head.