Find a Great Roofing Contractor

How to Choose a Roofing Contractor You Can Trust

Your licensed NJ roofing contractor, Allied Roofing Solutions, is dedicated to providing high-quality craftsmanship on every project we perform. Since 2007 we have made it our goal to have top workmanship and customer service, so we know something about how to find a great roofing contractor.


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Hiring a roofing contractor can feel like a gamble. Will they show up on time? Will the work hold up for years to come? Or will you be stuck with a leaky roof and an unreliable contractor who won’t return your calls?

how to choose a roofing contractor

A roofing project, whether it’s a repair or a replacement, is a big investment, and the last thing you want is to hire the wrong contractor. Poor workmanship, delays, and hidden fees can turn an already costly project into a nightmare. That’s why knowing how to choose a roofing contractor is so important. This guide will help you spot red flags, ask the right questions, and hire someone who will do the job right the first time.

1. Get Recommendations and Read Reviews

One of the best ways to start your search is by asking friends, family, and neighbors if they’ve worked with a roofer they’d recommend. Personal experiences can provide real insight into a contractor’s reliability and work quality. If you don’t have referrals, turn to online reviews. Google, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and sites like HomeAdvisor can help you find reputable contractors.

When checking reviews, pay attention to:

  • Recent customer experiences (within the last six months)
  • Comments about professionalism, timeliness, and work quality
  • Any patterns of complaints, such as poor communication or unfinished jobs

At Allied Roofing Solutions, we encourage homeowners to check out our online reviews and see why so many customers trust us for their roofing needs.

2. Check Licensing, Insurance, and Experience

questions to ask potential roofers

Hiring a roofing contractor without proper licensing and general liability insurance can leave you at risk. A professional roofer should provide:

  • Valid state licensing to operate legally
  • General liability insurance to cover damages or accidents
  • Workers' compensation insurance to protect their crew and you from liability
  • Bonding to guarantee the work is completed as promised

Before hiring, request documentation for these credentials. A reputable roofer will be transparent about their qualifications. Allied Roofing Solutions meets all licensing and insurance requirements, giving homeowners confidence in their roofing investment.

3. Compare Roofing Estimates the Right Way

Don’t settle for the first estimate you receive. Get at least three written estimates so you can compare pricing, materials, and timelines. If a contractor skips a roof inspection and gives a quote over the phone, that’s a red flag. A proper inspection helps uncover roof damage or structural issues that might affect the final cost. A professional estimate for a roof installation or roof repair should include:

  • A detailed breakdown of labor and material costs
  • The expected project timeline
  • Warranty details for materials and workmanship
  • A clear payment schedule

A significantly lower bid might seem like a great deal, but it can mean poor workmanship, low-quality roofing materials, or even hidden fees that increase your total roofing project costs in the long run. At Allied Roofing Solutions, we provide transparent, competitive pricing without cutting corners.

Trouble deciding between multiple roofing contractors?

Choosing between roofing contractors goes beyond comparing prices. Here are some questions to ask when deciding who’s the best fit for your home:

communication with roofing contractors

Clear Communication

  • Who took the time to explain the estimate and answer your questions thoroughly?
  • Did one contractor seem rushed or impatient, while another was willing to walk you through the process?
  • If you had follow-up questions, who responded promptly and professionally?
Roofing company list of references

Reputation & Reviews

  • Do past customers consistently praise one contractor over another for reliability and craftsmanship?
  • Have you seen complaints about missed deadlines, surprise charges, or poor cleanup?
  • Does one company have a strong presence in your local community with verified testimonials?
Warranties for Materials and Workmanship

Warranties & Certifications

  • Which contractor offers the strongest manufacturer-backed warranty?
  • Does one company’s warranty have more fine print or loopholes than another?
  • Who provided a clear, written breakdown of their warranty terms without you having to ask?
experienced roofing contractors

Experience & Local Presence

  • Has one contractor been serving your area for years, while another just recently started operating locally?
  • Who has experience with homes similar to yours, whether it’s an older home, a large roof, or specialty materials?
  • If something goes wrong in five years, which company is more likely to still be around to honor their warranty?

At the end of the day, the right contractor is the one who makes you feel confident in their work, not just their price. The cheapest bid might save money upfront, but a well-established company with strong warranties, great communication, and a track record of satisfied customers is worth the investment.

4. Check Past Roofing Projects and Certifications

A professional contractor should have a strong portfolio and industry certifications. Ask for:

  • A list of recent clients you can contact
  • Photos of completed projects
  • Proof of manufacturer certifications, such as Owens Corning Platinum Preferred status

Allied Roofing Solutions is an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Roofing Contractor, meaning we meet the highest standards in the industry and can offer some of the best warranties available.

5. Know Your Roofing Warranty Options

Roofing warranties protect your investment, especially when it comes to shingle repairs and replacements, but understanding the differences in warranties is important. There are two primary types:

There are two primary types:

  • Manufacturer warranties, which cover material defects
  • Workmanship warranties, which cover installation errors

It’s important to know what can void your warranty when choosing the right roofing contractor.

Common reasons include:

  • Poor installation by an unqualified roofing contractor
  • Failure to schedule routine maintenance
  • Using unapproved materials or modifications

At Allied Roofing Solutions, we stand behind our work and offer strong warranties so homeowners can feel confident in their roofing investment.

6. Avoid Storm Chaser Roofing Scams

After big storms, out-of-state roofing contractors often show up offering quick, cheap storm damage repairs. While it may seem convenient, these contractors are often unreliable and disappear once the job is done. Instead, work with a well-established local company that has a history of serving your community. Local contractors are more likely to honor warranties and be available if issues arise later.

As a trusted New Jersey roofing company, Allied Roofing Solutions is committed to long-term service and customer satisfaction.

7. Evaluate Their Communication and Reliability

 

potential contractors should be reliable and communicative

Good communication is an important factor when deciding how to choose a roofing contractor. From the first call to project completion, take note of how the contractor interacts with you. A professional contractor should:

  • Provide detailed estimates and contracts
  • Answer your questions thoroughly
  • Keep you updated throughout the process

If a contractor is hard to reach before the job starts, it’s unlikely their communication will improve once work is underway. Allied Roofing Solutions prioritizes customer service, making sure every client stays informed throughout their roofing project.

8. Get Clear Terms on Repairs and Payments

Once a roofing project begins, hidden issues like rotting wood or moisture damage can surface. Before work starts, ask how the contractor handles unexpected repairs. Will they pause the job to provide a revised estimate, or will they charge you without notice?

Also, make sure the payment terms are clear. Avoid roofing contractors who demand large upfront payments. Most reputable companies structure payments throughout the project to protect both parties.

9. Inspect the Work Before Making Final Payment

Before making your final payment, take the time to do a thorough walkthrough to review their roofing work with your contractor. This is your chance to catch any issues before the roofing project is officially complete. A professional roof inspection can also help identify any lingering concerns before signing off on the work.

What to Look for in Your Final Inspection

Look at your new roof from different angles—shingles should be evenly aligned with no gaps, curling, or loose edges. If shingles are out of place, it can lead to roof damage and costly repairs down the road.

Check that flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is properly sealed. Poorly secured flashing is one of the most common roof repair needs because it allows water to seep into the roof system.

A roofing company should confirm that gutters are securely attached and free from debris. If water isn’t draining properly, it can cause leaks, foundation issues, or roof deck deterioration.

Proper ventilation keeps your home energy efficient and prevents mold and rot. If your attic feels damp or excessively hot, it could indicate a ventilation problem that needs attention before the roofing job is finalized.

A professional contractor will leave the property clean. There shouldn’t be any loose nails, shingle pieces, or other materials scattered around. A good contractor’s company will use magnetic sweepers to collect stray nails from driveways and lawns.

Taking the time to go through this final checklist can help avoid hidden fees and unexpected roof repairs later. At Allied Roofing Solutions, we walk through every completed roofing project with our clients to guarantee quality results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right roofing company involves checking their licensing, liability insurance, experience, and customer reviews. Ask for written estimates, verify warranties, and make sure they communicate clearly throughout the process.

You should get at least three estimates. Comparing estimates helps you gauge fair pricing and assess each contractor’s professionalism. Many roofing companies also offer roof inspections before providing an estimate, which can help uncover potential issues that might affect the final cost.

Spring and fall are ideal times for a roof replacement since mild temperatures help materials set properly. However, an experienced contractor can complete a quality roof replacement year-round.

Most roofing jobs take between one and three days, depending on the size and complexity of the project.

Check their licensing, insurance, and certifications. You should also find reviews, ask for references, and make sure they have a physical business location. A reputable roofing contractor should have a strong standing with the Better Business Bureau, where you can check for complaints, unresolved issues, and overall ratings.

Your Roof Deserves the Best - Schedule Your Inspection Today

Knowing how to choose a roofing contractor can save you time, money, and stress. A trusted professional should provide clear estimates, quality workmanship, and reliable service, giving you confidence that your home is in good hands.

At Allied Roofing Solutions, we’ve helped homeowners across Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, and Somerset Counties protect their homes with expert roofing services. Don’t let a minor roofing issue turn into a costly repair: take action today.

Call  (201) 773-0633 or fill out our free estimate form to get started.