(440) 307-2060
What to Do Before Signing a Roofing Contract
Replacing or repairing a roof is a big investment—and one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. A solid roof protects your home, adds value, and ensures energy efficiency. what to do before signing a roofing contract, it’s crucial to take a few important steps to make sure you’re getting what you pay for.
This guide outlines everything you should do before putting pen to paper.
1. Get Multiple Estimates
It’s always smart to get at least three estimates before hiring a roofing contractor. Prices can vary significantly depending on materials, scope of work, and the contractor’s experience.
When comparing quotes, don’t just look at the bottom line. Pay attention to:
- What’s included (materials, labor, permits)
- Timeline for the job
- Cleanup procedures
- Warranty information
Make sure each contractor is bidding on the same scope of work so you can make an accurate comparison.
2. Research the Contractor’s Background
Don’t take a contractor’s word at face value. Do your own homework.
Check the following:
- Licensing: Make sure they are licensed in your state or locality.
- Insurance: They should have both liability insurance and workers’ compensation.
- Reputation: Look for customer reviews and ask for references. Speak to past clients about their experiences.
Choosing an experienced and well-reviewed contractor greatly reduces the risk of poor workmanship or unethical business practices.
3. Schedule a Roof Inspection
Before any work begins, request a roof inspection—ideally from a third-party inspector who doesn’t have a financial interest in selling you a new roof. This inspection should determine whether you need a full replacement, a repair, or maintenance.
Inspections can help:
- Confirm the true condition of your roof
- Prevent unnecessary work or upselling
- Provide documentation if insurance is involved
A good contractor may also offer a free or low-cost inspection and explain their findings in clear terms.
4. Review the Contract Thoroughly
Your roofing contract is your legal protection, and it should spell out every aspect of the job. Never sign anything vague or incomplete.
Here’s what to look for in the contract:
- Contractor’s full business name, address, and contact info
- Detailed scope of work (including material removal, flashing, insulation, etc.)
- Type and brand of materials to be used
- Start and completion dates
- Payment schedule
- Cleanup and disposal details
- Permit responsibilities
- Warranty information (both for materials and workmanship)
- Change order process (what happens if additional work is needed)
- Termination clause (how either party can cancel the contract)
If any verbal promises were made, make sure they are added in writing. Never rely on handshake agreements.
5. Understand the Payment Terms
You should not be asked to pay for the entire project up front. Standard practice is a deposit followed by milestone payments as work progresses.
A fair payment plan might look like this:
- 10-25% deposit at contract signing
- A payment when materials are delivered
- Final payment after the job is completed and inspected
Avoid cash-only deals and be wary of contractors who ask for most of the money before starting the job. This could be a sign of trouble.
6. Watch for Red Flags
Before signing a contract, be alert for signs that something may be off.
Common red flags include:
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Extremely low bids compared to others
- Vague or incomplete contracts
- No verifiable license or insurance
- Poor online reviews or no reviews at all
- Asking for full payment up front
Be especially cautious of door-to-door roofers who show up after a storm and claim your roof is damaged. While some may be legitimate, many are looking to make quick money and disappear.
7. Ask Key Questions
Asking the right questions before hiring a roofer can give you peace of mind—and help you spot any inconsistencies.
Some helpful questions include:
- How long have you been in business?
- Can I see examples of past work?
- Do you use your own crew or subcontractors?
- What certifications do you have?
- Who will be my main contact during the job?
- What is your clean-up process?
- What warranties do you offer?
- What happens if there are weather delays?
- How do you handle hidden damage, like rotted decking?
Any contractor who’s honest and professional should be willing to answer these questions.
8. Confirm Warranty Details
There are typically two types of warranties with roofing projects:
- Manufacturer Warranty: Covers the materials, often 20–50 years or more.
- Workmanship Warranty: Covers installation and labor, usually ranging from 1 to 10 years.
Make sure both warranties are spelled out in the contract. Also ask what could void either warranty, such as poor ventilation or unauthorized repairs.
9. Know Who’s Responsible for Permits
Roofing work often requires permits depending on local building codes. Ask your contractor who is responsible for obtaining these.
A reputable contractor will:
- Pull the permits themselves
- Schedule necessary inspections
- Ensure the work complies with code
If they ask you to pull the permit, this could be a sign they are unlicensed or trying to avoid responsibility.
10. Include Cleanup and Property Protection
Roof replacement is messy. There will be nails, shingles, old wood, and possibly debris falling from above.
Make sure your contract includes:
- Use of tarps to protect landscaping
- Daily cleanup procedures
- Dumpster placement and removal
- Magnetic nail sweep after the job
A clean, respectful crew is a mark of professionalism.
11. Understand the Change Order Process
Sometimes once the old roof is removed, hidden issues are found—like rotten wood or damaged flashing. These items can increase the price, but they should not be used to pressure you into on-the-spot decisions.
A good contract includes:
- How change orders are initiated
- How new work is priced
- Your right to approve any changes before the work begins
Make sure you’re not stuck paying for unexpected work you didn’t authorize.
12. Know Your Cancellation Rights
Depending on where you live, you may have the legal right to cancel a contract within a short window of time after signing, especially if the deal was made in your home.
Things to keep in mind:
- Some states allow a 3-day cooling-off period
- Cancellation clauses should be clearly outlined in the contract
- Make sure you know if your deposit is refundable
Read the fine print carefully before signing anything.
13. Take Time to Think
Don’t let anyone rush you into a roofing contract. If a contractor tells you the deal is “only good today” or uses scare tactics about your roof collapsing, be wary.
Instead:
- Take your time to compare quotes
- Ask follow-up questions
- Get a second opinion if needed
- Consult with friends or family
Good contractors understand that roofing is a big decision and will respect your need to think it over.
14. Learn From Real-Life Experiences
Homeowners who’ve gone through the roofing process often share valuable lessons:
- One homeowner discovered that a verbal warranty wasn’t honored—because it wasn’t written into the contract.
- Another learned the hard way that the cheapest quote led to leaks and expensive repairs just months later.
- A couple had to fight to get their deposit back when they found out the contractor wasn’t licensed.
These stories underline the importance of clear documentation, vetting your contractor, and protecting yourself legally.
Final Thoughts
Signing a roofing contract isn’t something to take lightly. It’s a legally binding agreement that involves a major investment in your home.
Before signing:
- Get multiple quotes
- Verify licenses, insurance, and reputation
- Get a full inspection
- Make sure the contract spells out everything in detail
- Understand the payment plan and warranty terms
- Ask questions and review red flags
Taking the time to follow these steps can save you from costly mistakes—and ensure that your roof is built to last.
