Whether you're dealing with a sudden roof leak or planning a full replacement, choosing a roofing contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. A quality roofer can protect your home—and your wallet—while a poor one can create more problems than they solve.
So, how do you know who to trust?
Use these seven tips to help you choose the right roofing contractor with confidence, avoid common mistakes, and get the job done right the first time.
Recommendations for Choosing A Roofing Contractor
Here are some of the best steps to follow when sifting through your roofing contractor options:
1. Take Your Time—Don’t Rush the Decision
If your roof is damaged after a storm, it’s natural to want repairs fast. But rushing the process often leads to poor results. Instead of hiring the first available roofer, take time to research your options.
A reputable roofing contractor will:
- Offer temporary protection if needed
- Explain your options clearly
- Encourage you to get multiple quotes instead of pressuring you into a decision
A hasty choice can lead to poor workmanship, denied warranty claims, or even scams. Choosing a roofer is too important to rush—especially when your home’s safety is on the line.
2. Ask Friends and Family for Recommendations
The best way to choose a good roofing contractor is often by word of mouth. Ask trusted friends, family, or neighbors if they’ve worked with someone they’d recommend.
If no one in your circle has a referral, check:
- Google reviews
- Better Business Bureau ratings
- Local Facebook groups
- Nextdoor recommendations
These sources can help you spot both high-quality companies and those to avoid.
3. Use a Home Warranty Plan to Connect With Trusted Roofers
If you have a 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty with the Roof Leak add-on, you already have a shortcut to choosing a roofing contractor you can trust.
Our network includes pre-screened, local professionals who:
- Are familiar with your area’s roofing needs
- Understand how to diagnose issues covered by your plan
- Work with our claims team to make the repair process easier
- Are comfortable with your current roofing materials
This can save you hours of research and provide extra peace of mind during the stressful experience of a roofing issue.
4. Avoid “Storm Chasers” at All Costs
Storm chasers are out-of-town contractors who knock on doors after a major storm, offering quick, cheap repairs. They often lack proper licensing, offer vague contracts, and disappear once they’re paid—leaving you stuck if something goes wrong.
To protect yourself:
- Only work with local, verified contractors
- Never sign anything on the spot
- Ask for insurance and licensing documentation
When it comes to how to pick a roofer, follow this golden rule: If it feels rushed or pushy, walk away.
5. Choose an Established Local Roofing Company
Local experience matters. Picking a roofing contractor with a strong reputation in your community means they:
- Understand regional climate and building codes
- Will still be around if you need help down the road
- Likely have ties to suppliers and inspectors you may work with
Look for companies with at least 5–10 years of experience and a proven track record of successful installs and repairs.
6. Don’t Choose Solely Based on Price
We all want to save money, but the cheapest bid is rarely the best bid. Lowball quotes often skip steps, use inferior materials, or come from uninsured companies. That could cost you more in the long run.
Instead, get quotes from at least two or three roofing contractors and compare:
- What’s included in the scope of work
- The warranty on labor and materials
- Payment terms and insurance coverage
The right contractor will be patient, transparent, and happy to answer your questions—because they want to earn your trust.
Pro Tip: Quotes will vary depending on your location, the season, and your roofing materials. That said, the average roof repair costs an average of $1,152, according to Angi. A full roof replacement, meanwhile, averages about $9,517—though it can certainly reach much higher.
7. Review Bids From at Least Two Roofing Contractors
One of the smartest ways to protect yourself when selecting a roofer is by collecting and comparing multiple bids. Getting at least two or three estimates helps you understand:
- The fair market cost for your specific project
- What each contractor includes (or leaves out)
- Who communicates clearly and professionally
If you’ve never seen a roofing bid before, here’s what you should pay attention to:
- Line-item breakdowns (materials, labor, permits)
- Warranties offered (both workmanship and manufacturer)
- Estimated project timeline
- Proof of insurance and licensing
- Cleanup and disposal details
Pro Tip: If one bid seems unusually low, it may be cutting corners. If one seems high, ask what additional value it includes.
Final Thoughts: Additional Support For Choosing A Roofer
If you’re wondering how to select a roofing contractor, remember: It’s not just about finding someone who can do the job—it’s about finding someone who can do it right.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Take your time—don’t rush into the first quote
- Ask for referrals from people you trust
- Use your 2-10 Home Service Plan to connect with verified roofers
- Avoid storm chasers and unverified contractors
- Choose a company with local roots and a long track record
- Compare more than just price—review value, service, and experience
- Review bids from at least two different roofing contractors
Knowing how to select a good roofing contractor can save you time, stress, and thousands of dollars. At 2-10, we’re here to help you protect your home with dependable coverage and reliable pros.
