Before hiring a roofer, confirm they carry current liability and workers’ compensation insurance, hold a Tennessee license for the job size, will pull the permit, and put both a manufacturer and a workmanship warranty in writing. Never pay in full up front.
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Why the right questions matter on a roof
A roof is one of the most expensive and highest-risk projects a homeowner will ever take on, and most of the work happens where you cannot see it. Once shingles are down, it is nearly impossible to know whether the decking was inspected, the underlayment was installed correctly, or the flashing was replaced.
That is why the questions you ask before signing matter more than the final walk-through. The goal is to confirm licensing, insurance, and warranty terms in writing, and to spot the shortcuts that lead to leaks two winters from now.
Insurance and licensing questions
Roofing is dangerous, high-liability work. If a crew member is hurt on your property and the contractor does not carry workers’ compensation, you can be exposed. Ask for current certificates directly from the insurer, not a photocopy.
- Can you provide current general liability and workers’ compensation certificates?
- Are you licensed in Tennessee for a project of this size?
- Will your own crews do the work, or is it subcontracted?
- Who is my point of contact if there is a problem after the job?
Scope and warranty questions
A vague estimate is where profit gets protected at your expense. A trustworthy roofer will spell out whether they are tearing off the old roof or laying over it, what underlayment and flashing they will use, and exactly what each warranty covers.
Remember that a material warranty from the manufacturer and a workmanship warranty from the contractor are two different things. You want both, in writing.
- Is this a full tear-off or a layover, and why?
- Will you replace damaged decking, and how is that priced?
- What underlayment and ice-and-water shield are included?
- What does the workmanship warranty cover, and for how long?
Payment and timeline questions
Large up-front deposits are a classic warning sign. A reasonable deposit secures materials; paying in full before work starts removes your leverage if something goes wrong.
- What deposit do you require, and what does it cover?
- When are the remaining payments due?
- What is the expected start and completion window?
- How do you handle weather delays?
Homeowner checklist
- Current liability and workers’ comp certificates, verified with the insurer
- Tennessee licensing appropriate to the project size
- A written tear-off vs. layover plan
- Separate material and workmanship warranties in writing
- A reasonable deposit, never full payment up front
- A permit pulled by the contractor, not the homeowner
Frequently asked
Should I be worried about a large upfront deposit?
Yes. A modest deposit to secure materials is normal, but being asked to pay most or all of the cost before work begins is a common red flag. It removes your leverage if the work is not completed properly.
Do I need a permit to replace my roof?
Most full roof replacements require a permit and inspection in East Tennessee. A reputable contractor pulls it in their name and welcomes the inspection.
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