Your roof is one of the most critical parts of your home. Getting the job done right depends entirely on who you hire.
This guide walks you through every step needed to make a smart decision, from verifying credentials to spotting contractors who won’t stand behind their work.
1. Verify Licensing and Insurance First
Any contractor you consider must hold a valid license for your state and carry general liability insurance.
Without insurance, you could be held financially responsible if a worker is injured on your property.
Ask for proof of both before any conversation goes further. A legitimate company will provide these without hesitation.
2. Research Local Reputation and Reviews
Search for the company on Google, the Better Business Bureau, and Yelp. Focus on reviews from the past six months.
Pay attention to how the company responds to negative feedback. That tells you more than the five-star reviews.
Ami Feller, owner of Roofer Chicks and an Angi Expert Review Board member, notes that roofers who focus on a specific shingle brand often secure extended manufacturer warranties due to their purchase volume — a direct benefit to homeowners.
3. Get at Least Three Written Quotes
Getting multiple bids helps you understand fair market pricing for your area and project scope.
If one quote is significantly lower than the others, it usually signals cheaper materials, underpaid labor, or corners being cut.
When you choose a roofing company, always compare quotes line by line, not just the bottom number. Materials, timelines, and warranty terms matter just as much as price.
Local vs. National vs. Storm Chaser: A Quick Comparison
Not all roofing contractors operate the same way. Here is how the main types stack up:
| Factor | Local Contractor | National Chain | Storm Chaser |
| Licensing | Usually verified | Verified | Often unverified |
| Local code knowledge | Strong | Moderate | Weak |
| Accountability | High | Moderate | Low |
| Warranty follow-up | Reliable | Varies | Rare |
| Pricing transparency | High | Moderate | Low |
Local contractors typically offer the strongest accountability because they live and work in the community they serve.
4. Ask the Right Questions Before You Sign
Questions to ask every contractor:
How long have you been operating in this area? Do you have references from recent local jobs?
What does your workmanship warranty cover, and for how long? Is it separate from the manufacturer warranty?
Who will actually be doing the work — your own crew, or subcontractors?
What is the payment schedule? Paying in full upfront is a major red flag.
Watch the video above for a walkthrough on evaluating roofing contractors before you commit.
5. Know the Red Flags
The marylandreporter.com article on roof replacement highlights that homeowners should prioritize licensed, insured companies with verifiable references, especially given the aggressive tactics common in the industry.
There are two types of warranties on any roofing job: the manufacturer warranty on materials and the workmanship warranty from the contractor.
The manufacturer warranty covers material defects. The workmanship warranty covers installation errors.
Always get both in writing. A company that won’t put its workmanship warranty in writing is a company to walk away from.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many quotes should I get for a roofing job?
Get at least three quotes from licensed local contractors. This gives you a reliable range to compare pricing, materials, and timelines.
What should a roofing contract include?
The contract should detail the scope of work, materials to be used, start and end dates, payment schedule, warranty terms, and cleanup responsibilities.
Is the cheapest roofing bid usually a bad sign?
Not always, but a bid that is significantly below others often means cheaper materials or shortcuts. Always ask what is included.
Do roofing contractors need to pull permits?
In most states, yes. A contractor who suggests skipping permits is putting you at legal and structural risk. Always confirm this upfront.
How do I verify a roofer’s license?
Most states have an online contractor license lookup tool through their licensing board. Ask the contractor for their license number and verify it yourself.
The Bottom Line
A good roofing company is licensed, insured, locally established, and transparent about pricing and warranties.
Take your time, ask questions, and never let a contractor pressure you into a fast decision.
For more guidance on home improvement decisions in Maryland, visit marylandreporter.com.
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