10 Questions to Ask Before You Sign a Roofing Quote
The exact questions we tell friends and family to ask any roofer — before they pay a deposit or agree to start work.
Most roofing complaints come down to the same thing: the homeowner didn't ask the right questions before saying yes. These ten will filter out the majority of rogue traders and stop nasty surprises mid-job.
1. Are you a limited company, and what's your company number?
A registered limited company (like WS Roofs Ltd, company number check on Companies House) is publicly accountable. A cash-only trader with no paperwork is not.
2. Can I see your public liability insurance?
Ask to see current public liability insurance appropriate to the proposed work and confirm the level of cover. Ask for the certificate — a genuine roofer sends it within an hour.
3. Are you on Checkatrade, TrustMark or similar?
Independent review platforms verify identity and let past customers post honestly. Google reviews alone are useful but easier to game.
4. What's included and what's excluded, in writing?
Scaffolding, waste removal, VAT, new lead flashing, roof felt — get every line item on paper. Verbal quotes are where disputes start.
5. What guarantee do you provide, and is it in writing?
Workmanship guarantees should be 10 years minimum on a new roof, 5 on repairs. Ask for the guarantee wording before you commit.
6. Do you use your own team or subcontractors?
Neither is wrong — but you should know. Subbed work is where quality control slips if the main contractor isn't on site.
7. What's the payment schedule?
Reputable roofers rarely ask for more than 25% upfront on larger jobs, and never full payment before completion. If they demand cash in full before starting — walk away.
8. How long will the job take, and when can you start?
A firm start date and realistic duration are both good signs. 'Next week, three days' with no diary in sight often means they'll disappear mid-job.
9. Will you leave the site tidy each evening?
Sounds small — matters enormously. It also tells you how the finished job will look.
10. Can I speak to two recent customers nearby?
A genuine local roofer has jobs on the same road. If they can't give you two references within 5 miles, that's a red flag.
We answer all ten in writing before any customer signs. Get a free written quote: 07928 888913.
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