Hiring a roofing contractor is a big decision. Your roof is one of the most valuable parts of your home, and you want to be sure the person you hire can do the job right. But many homeowners in Kansas City are not sure what questions to ask before they sign a contract.
Asking the right questions can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your home. Here are the top questions you should ask any roofing contractor before hiring them.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured In Kansas City?
The first thing you should ask is simple. Are you licensed and insured? A license shows that the contractor has met state or city requirements to perform roofing work. Insurance protects you if something goes wrong on the job, such as property damage or worker injury.
If a contractor cannot provide proof of both, it is a red flag. A professional roofing contractor in Kansas City will be able to show these documents quickly.
2. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience matters when it comes to roofing. Ask how many years they have been working in Kansas City. A local contractor with years of experience has likely worked on homes similar to yours. They know the city’s weather, codes, and roofing challenges.
While new companies are not always bad, a long track record can give you peace of mind.
3. Can You Provide Local KC References?
A good roofer should be able to give you names and phone numbers of past customers. Call these references and ask questions like:
- Did the roofer finish on time?
- Was the price close to the estimate?
- Have you had any problems since the work was completed?
- Would you hire them again?
References give you real insight into how the contractor works.
4. What Materials Do You Recommend and Why?
Not all roofing materials are the same. Some work better for Kansas City’s heavy storms, while others are better for energy efficiency. Ask the contractor what materials they suggest and why.
A trustworthy roofer will explain the pros and cons of shingles, metal, or other materials. They should also discuss warranties offered by manufacturers.
5. Will You Provide a Written Estimate?
Always ask for a written estimate before work begins. This estimate should include:
- Cost of materials
- Cost of labor
- Timeline for completion
- Payment terms
- Warranty details
Verbal promises are not enough. A written estimate protects both you and the contractor.
6. Who Will Be Working on My Roof?
Some roofing companies use their own crews. Others hire subcontractors. It is important to know who will be on your property. Ask if the people working on your roof are employees, subcontractors, or a mix of both.
If subcontractors are used, ask if they are insured and experienced.
7. How Will You Protect My Property?
Roofing can be messy. Shingles, nails, and other debris can damage landscaping or even create safety hazards. Ask how the contractor plans to protect your yard, driveway, and home during the project.
Many professional roofers use tarps, magnetic nail sweepers, and careful cleanup methods to leave your property as good as they found it.
8. What Warranty Do You Offer?
A roof is a long-term investment, and you want it to last. Ask what kind of warranty the contractor provides. Many offer two types:
- Manufacturer’s warranty for the roofing materials
- Workmanship warranty for the labor
Be sure you understand how long the warranty lasts and what it covers.
9. How Do You Handle Unexpected Problems?
Sometimes issues appear after work has started. Rotted wood, hidden leaks, or storm damage may need extra repair. Ask how the contractor handles these surprises. Will they stop work and get your approval before moving forward? A clear answer shows professionalism.
10. Do You Have the Good Contractors Club Shield?
One of the easiest ways to make sure you are hiring a trustworthy roofer is to check if they are listed with The Good Contractors Club. Every roofer in the directory has been vetted through reviews, the Better Business Bureau, and other checks.
This means you can trust that the contractor has been pre-screened before they ever show up at your door. Plus, with The Good Contractors Club you can contact contractors directly—no hidden fees, no middlemen, and no spam.
The Bottom Line
The right questions can save you time, money, and stress. Before you sign a contract, be sure to ask about licensing, insurance, experience, materials, warranties, and property protection. Do not be afraid to ask for references and written estimates.
And remember, when you use The Good Contractors Club, many of these steps are already done for you. The roofers listed there are vetted, verified, and ready to help. That way, you can hire with confidence and focus on what matters most, protecting your home.