How to Choose a Roofing Contractor for Your Building

Selecting the right roofing partner is one of the most important decisions a property owner or manager will make. A roof protects your building, your tenants, and your investment, but its performance depends heavily on the contractor you hire. With so many options available, choosing a roofing contractor can feel overwhelming. How do you know who is qualified, who is reliable, and who will provide lasting results rather than short-term fixes?

This guide outlines essential considerations for selecting a contractor, from verifying certifications to asking the right questions before signing a contract. By following these roofing contractor tips, you can feel confident that your building’s roof is in capable hands.

Why Choosing a Roofing Contractor Matters

Your roof is more than just another building component—it’s a critical system that impacts energy efficiency, safety, and long-term property value. Working with the wrong contractor can lead to poor workmanship, voided warranties, and higher repair costs down the road. On the other hand, a professional team brings expertise, proper installation techniques, and proactive guidance to help your roof reach its full service life.

Ultimately, choosing a roofing contractor isn’t about finding the lowest bid. It’s about identifying a partner you can trust to protect your property, respond promptly to issues, and deliver work that stands the test of time.

Look for Certified Roofing Contractors

Certification is one of the strongest indicators of professionalism and credibility. Certified roofing contractors undergo specialized training, meet strict industry standards, and often have access to extended manufacturer warranties.

When evaluating a contractor, ask:

Are they certified by leading manufacturers such as GAF, IKO, or Johns Manville?
Do they maintain current safety training and OSHA compliance?
Can they provide proof of certifications and licensing?

Choosing a certified contractor ensures that your roof is installed or repaired according to best practices and industry requirements. This isn’t just about quality—it’s about peace of mind that your investment is fully protected.

Experience and Reputation Matter

Beyond certifications, experience plays a major role in determining whether a contractor can deliver reliable results. Look for companies with a proven track record in your region, ideally with decades of experience across multiple roof types and systems.

Signs of a strong reputation include:

Positive reviews on trusted platforms like Angi or Google.
Testimonials from other commercial property owners.
Awards or recognition from industry organizations.

A contractor with a solid reputation demonstrates consistency, reliability, and commitment to customer satisfaction, all critical qualities when trusting someone with your building’s roof.

Regular roof inspections help prevent costly repairs. Learn how commercial roof inspections and roof maintenance save money in the long run.

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Roofing Contractor Tips: What to Ask Before Hiring

To avoid costly mistakes, always ask potential contractors the right questions before making a final decision. Here are key questions every property owner should consider:

What certifications and licenses do you hold?

Verifies their qualifications and compliance.

Do you carry insurance and bonding?

Protects you from liability in case of accidents.

Can you provide references from recent projects?

Allows you to gauge their quality and client satisfaction.

How do you handle warranties?

Ensures that both workmanship and manufacturer warranties remain valid.

What safety practices do you follow?

Confirms that workers and building occupants are protected.

Who will be on-site completing the work?

Clarifies whether subcontractors will be involved and how they are managed.

By asking these questions up front, you reduce uncertainty and gain valuable insight into how the contractor operates.

Don’t Overlook Warranties and Materials

Another critical factor in choosing a roofing contractor is understanding how they handle materials and warranties. A reliable contractor will be transparent about the brands they use, explain why those products are suited for your building, and provide documentation for both manufacturer and workmanship warranties.

Some questions to ask include:

Which roofing materials do you recommend for my building, and why?
How long does the manufacturer warranty last, and what does it cover?
Do you provide your own workmanship warranty, and how is it enforced?

Contractors who are vague about these details may be cutting corners. On the other hand, those who clearly explain product choices and stand behind their work demonstrate accountability and professionalism. Knowing your roof is covered by both material and labor warranties adds another layer of financial protection.

How to Spot Red Flags When Hiring

Not every contractor will meet the high standards your building deserves. Watch for these warning signs that indicate you should continue your search:

Unusually Low Bids: If the price seems too good to be true, it usually is. Cheap bids often lead to cutting corners or using subpar materials.
Lack of Transparency: Contractors who avoid answering questions about certifications, insurance, or subcontractors may be hiding something.
Poor Communication: Delays in responding to calls or emails before you hire them are a preview of future frustrations.
No Written Estimates: Reputable contractors always provide detailed, written proposals outlining scope and cost.

Avoiding these pitfalls will save you significant headaches and expenses in the long run.

The Role of Safety and Compliance

Roofing projects can be hazardous if not managed properly. That’s why safety practices are another critical factor in choosing a roofing contractor. A reliable contractor prioritizes OSHA compliance, worker training, and on-site safety protocols. This protects not only the crew but also your building occupants and visitors.

Ask contractors to explain their safety policies and confirm they carry workers’ compensation insurance. Contractors who take safety seriously are far more likely to deliver quality work while minimizing risks.

Building a Long-Term Partnership

Hiring a roofing contractor isn’t just about a single project. Ideally, you want to establish a long-term partnership with a company that will continue to support you through inspections, maintenance, and future repairs. A reliable contractor will work with you to develop a proactive maintenance plan, provide documentation for warranty compliance, and remain available for emergency needs.

This relationship saves money, reduces stress, and ensures that your building is always protected by a trusted team.

Take the Next Step in Choosing the Right Contractor

When it comes to protecting your property, the decision of who you trust with your roof is one of the most important you’ll make. Don’t settle for uncertainty or risk working with unqualified providers.

With over four decades of proven service, Showalter Roofing Services has built a reputation for excellence across Chicagoland. As certified roofing contractors, we deliver the expertise, reliability, and long-term care property owners need. From inspections and repairs to complete installations, our team brings unmatched professionalism and attention to detail.

Make the smart choice today—contact Showalter Roofing Services to schedule a consultation and discover why so many property owners continue to rely on us when choosing a roofing contractor.