How to Choose a Roofing Contractor (and Dodge Storm-Chaser Scams)

Why this decision is riskier than it looks

A roof is one of the most expensive things you'll buy for your home, and it's sold by an industry with a low barrier to entry and a lot of one-storm operators. After every hailstorm, out-of-town "storm chaser" crews descend on a neighborhood, knock on doors, promise a free roof, do fast work, and leave the state before the first leak shows up. Their warranty is worthless because they're gone.

The good news: separating the pros from the chasers takes about ten minutes and a few direct questions.

Red flags — walk away if you see these

• They knocked on your door uninvited after a storm and pressed for a quick yes.
• Pressure to sign "today" for a discount that magically expires. Real roofers don't need urgency tricks.
• Cash only, or a large upfront deposit (more than ~15–30%). Never pay in full before work is done.
• They offer to "waive" or "eat" your insurance deductible — that's illegal in many states and can constitute insurance fraud, and you're the one left on the hook.
• No physical local address, no license number, out-of-state plates, and a magnetic sign on the truck.
• No written contract, or a vague one that doesn't name the materials, scope, or warranty.
• A bid dramatically lower than the others — someone is cutting corners you can't see until it leaks.

Questions to ask before you sign

• "What's your license number, and are you insured and bonded?" Then verify it — don't take their word.
• "Do you carry workers' comp and liability insurance?" If a worker is hurt on your roof without it, you can be liable.
• "Are you a local company, and how long have you been at this address?" Longevity is warranty insurance.
• "Is the crew your employees or day-labor subcontractors?" It affects accountability and quality.
• "What's the workmanship warranty, separate from the manufacturer's material warranty?" You want both in writing.
• "Can I see recent local jobs and talk to those homeowners?" Real references, not just a logo wall.
• "What's the payment schedule?" It should be tied to milestones, not a big check upfront.

Pro tip from our network contractors

The manufacturer warranty only counts if the roof is installed to spec — and only a manufacturer-certified installer can offer the strongest "system" warranties. Ask whether the contractor is certified by the shingle brand they're quoting; it's a free signal of legitimacy.

Get three quotes — and read them, don't just compare the total

Three written quotes isn't about finding the lowest number; it's about seeing who's honest. Line them up and read the scope: Does it include a full tear-off or a cheap overlay? A decking-replacement allowance? Underlayment, flashing, cleanup, and haul-away? Two bids that look $3,000 apart are often quoting two different jobs.

If a quote comes back far below the others, that's not a deal — it's a warning. Know what a roof should cost before you compare, and if there's storm damage involved, understand how insurance coverage works so no one can play games with your claim.