What to Ask a Roofer Before You Sign Anything

I've talked to 55 roofing companies across Atlanta. I've seen the good, the bad, and the ones whose websites are literally broken. Here are the questions that tell you which one you're dealing with.

1. Are you licensed and insured in Georgia?

This should be a one-word answer: yes. If they hesitate, explain, or say "I'll get back to you," call someone else. A legitimate roofer has their license number on their website and can show you proof of insurance before they step on your property.

2. Can I see photos of similar roofs you've done in my neighborhood?

A roofer who's been working in your area will have photos. Bonus points if they can name the street or subdivision. If they show you generic stock photos, they're either new or they don't document their work. Neither is good.

3. What kind of underlayment do you use?

This is a test. If they look confused, they're not the crew you want. A good roofer will name a specific product — synthetic underlayment, ice and water shield, felt — and explain why they use it. The underlayment is what keeps water out when a shingle fails. It matters.

4. Do you have a local office or are you chasing storms?

After a big storm, out-of-state roofers flood into Atlanta. They do a few jobs, collect checks, and leave. Six months later when something goes wrong, their phone is disconnected. A local roofer with a real address and a real reputation has skin in the game.

5. How do you handle the decking if there's rot?

Every roofer should tell you: we won't know until the old roof comes off, but here's our process if we find damage. Per-square-foot pricing for deck replacement. Photos before and after. A clear line item on the final invoice. If they give a vague answer, they'll hit you with a surprise bill.

6. What's your warranty — on labor, not just materials?

Manufacturers warranty the shingles. That's separate. What you need is a labor warranty from the roofer. If the roof leaks because of bad installation, who pays to fix it? A roofer who stands behind their work gives you 5-10 years of labor warranty. A roofer who doesn't gives you 1-2.

7. Can I talk to a recent customer?

Any roofer who's good at what they do has happy customers who will take a phone call. If they can't produce one, or they say "check my reviews," ask yourself why they can't connect you with a real person.