No one wakes up excited about paying for a new roof. The truth is, the average homeowner replaces their roof about 1.3 times in their lifetime. Sooner or later, it’s something we all face. With so much advertising out there, it can be tough to sort through the noise and figure out what really matters when choosing a quality roofing contractor in your area.
Here are 7 practical tips to help you find a roofing contractor you’ll be happy with:
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Ask the contractor for references.
Most contractors won’t give you names of unhappy customers. Still, a good contractor should have no problem providing real references. If they can’t, that’s a red flag. A reputable roofer will have plenty of satisfied customers willing to vouch for their work. -
Check Google reviews.
Search “roofing contractors near me” and look at ratings and review counts. A perfect 5-star score with only two reviews may not be reliable. Look for a contractor with strong ratings and at least 100 reviews — that’s usually enough to reflect real customer experience. -
Only hire a licensed and insured contractor.
Always ask for a copy of their insurance certificate. Michigan law requires roofers to maintain a current builder’s license and carry at least $500,000 in liability and workers’ comp insurance. Roof replacement is a major project, and you don’t want to risk being financially responsible if something goes wrong. -
Check for manufacturer certifications.
Shingle manufacturers vet contractors before certifying them. They confirm licenses, insurance, and years in business. Certified contractors can also offer stronger warranties on both materials and workmanship. While certification isn’t a guarantee of quality, it’s a strong indicator. -
Ask friends and neighbors.
Word of mouth is powerful. People rarely recommend someone they weren’t happy with. Plus, homes in the same neighborhood are often built around the same time. A contractor with local experience will likely understand your home’s unique construction. -
Ask about warranties.
Every roof warranty has two parts: materials and workmanship. Manufacturers cover defects in the shingles, but contractors cover leaks from improper installation. The legal minimum is one year, but a good roofer should offer at least 10 years — sometimes even 25 or more. -
Read the contract carefully.
The worst surprise is an invoice much higher than expected. Read the contract line by line. A good contractor will explain possible extra costs in advance and include clear terms on how changes will be handled.
