Hiring a roofing contractor is one of the most significant home improvement decisions you'll make. Your roof protects everything beneath it, and the contractor you choose determines whether that protection lasts 10 years or 30.

The challenge? Most homeowners only hire a roofer once or twice in their lifetime. Without industry experience, it's hard to know what questions separate qualified professionals from contractors who cut corners.

We've compiled this list based on 50 years of experience at AMECO Solar & Roofing. These are the questions we wish every homeowner would ask—whether they hire us or someone else. Print this checklist, bring it to your consultations, and don't sign a contract until you're satisfied with the answers.

Licensing and Insurance

These questions are non-negotiable. In California, working with an unlicensed or uninsured contractor puts your finances and property at serious risk.

What is your California State License Board (CSLB) license number?

Why it matters: California law requires contractors to be licensed for jobs over $500. Write down the number and verify it at www.cslb.ca.gov before proceeding.

Green flag: They provide the number immediately and encourage you to verify it.

Red flag: Hesitation, excuses, or claims that licensing "isn't necessary" for your project.

Do you hold a C-39 Roofing Contractor license or a B General Building Contractor license?

Why it matters: Both licenses permit roofing work, but a C-39 indicates specialized roofing expertise.

Green flag: C-39 license with years of roofing-specific experience.

Red flag: Only a general handyman license or no roofing-specific credentials.

Can you provide a current certificate of insurance showing general liability and workers' compensation coverage?

Why it matters: Without proper insurance, you could be liable for injuries on your property or damage to neighboring homes.

Green flag: They email certificates directly from their insurance provider within 24 hours.

Red flag: Promises to "get it to you later" or offers to show you a card instead of official certificates.

Is your insurance coverage active through my project's expected completion date?

Why it matters: Policies expire. Coverage that ends mid-project leaves you exposed.

Green flag: Certificate shows coverage extending well beyond your timeline.

Red flag: Coverage expires before or during your project window.

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Experience and Reputation

A contractor's track record tells you more than their sales pitch ever will.

How long have you been in business under your current company name?

Why it matters: Some contractors close and reopen under new names to escape bad reviews or legal issues.

Green flag: Established business with consistent name and ownership for 10+ years.

Red flag: Recent name changes, vague answers about company history, or less than 3 years in business.

Can you provide references from at least three recent customers in my area?

Why it matters: Local references allow you to verify work quality and potentially view completed projects.

Green flag: Immediate offer of multiple references with permission to contact them.

Red flag: Claims that references are "confidential" or only offers references from years ago.

Do you have experience with my specific roof type and roofing material?

Why it matters: Tile roofs, flat roofs, slate, and metal each require specialized knowledge. A shingle expert isn't automatically qualified for tile work.

Green flag: Photos of similar completed projects and specific technical knowledge about your roof type.

Red flag: Vague assurances that "all roofs are basically the same."

What is your rating with the Better Business Bureau, and do you have any unresolved complaints?

Why it matters: BBB complaints reveal patterns of customer dissatisfaction.

Green flag: A+ or A rating with resolved complaints showing responsiveness.

Red flag: Unresolved complaints, patterns of similar issues, or no BBB presence at all.

Have you ever had your license suspended or revoked?

Why it matters: Past disciplinary action indicates serious problems. This information is public on the CSLB website.

Green flag: Clean record with no disciplinary history.

Red flag: Any history of suspension, revocation, or legal judgments.

The importance of hiring a reputable and experienced roofing contractor

Investing in a new roof is a big deal. Before you invest your money, discover how to assess roofing companies. It’s imperative that you choose a reputable roofing contractor. You should prequalify roofing contractors in order to have the project done perfectly the first time and avoid costly mistakes. Here are some tips to help you choose a good professional:

Verify that the company has a physical location, a phone number, a tax ID number, and a business license if necessary. Don’t be afraid to ask for evidence of insurance from a roofing installer near you. Even more importantly, demand to see proof of his liability and workers’ compensation insurance policies. Keep the insurance policies in place throughout the project. Uninsured roofing contractors have been the subject of lawsuits involving several building owners and residents. Furthermore, if an uninsured contractor works on your property, you might be held accountable for any injuries or damage they cause.

Remember that pricing is just one factor to consider when deciding on a roofing contractor. Consideration should be given to factors such as professionalism, expertise, and the final product’s quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important question to ask a roofing contractor?

License verification is the single most important question. Ask for their CSLB license number and verify it at www.cslb.ca.gov before any other discussion. An unlicensed contractor puts your finances and property at serious legal risk.

How many quotes should I get before hiring a roofer?

We recommend obtaining at least three detailed written quotes. This provides a reasonable pricing range and allows you to compare approaches, materials, and professionalism. Be cautious of quotes that fall significantly above or below the average.

Should I hire the cheapest roofing contractor?

Rarely. The lowest bid often indicates cut corners—inferior materials, unlicensed workers, skipped steps, or plans to add charges later. Focus on value rather than price: quality materials, proper installation, strong warranties, and a reputable company.

What should I do if a contractor can't answer these questions?

Move on. A qualified, honest contractor will answer these questions confidently and completely. Hesitation, evasion, or pressure to skip due diligence are warning signs that something isn't right.

Can I negotiate with roofing contractors?

Yes, but focus on value rather than just price. You might negotiate upgraded materials at the original price, extended warranties, or better payment terms. Avoid pushing for discounts that encourage contractors to cut corners.