What Should I Ask a Roofer Before Hiring Them?

Before hiring a roofer, ask about their license, insurance, who does the work, exactly what materials and warranty you are getting, how damaged decking is handled, and how payment works. The answers should be clear and, ideally, in writing.

What are the most important questions?

1. 1Are you licensed for a job this size? Check on verify.tn.gov.
2. 2Can your insurance agent send me your certificate? Liability and, where it applies, workers' compensation.
3. 3Who will be on my roof? Your own crew or subcontractors?
4. 4What shingle or material, by brand and line?
5. 5Will you tear off the old roof or lay over it?
6. 6How do you price replacing rotten decking? Per sheet, stated in the contract.
7. 7What warranties apply? Manufacturer on materials, and the roofer's own on workmanship — how long each lasts.
8. 8Who pulls the permit, if one is required?
9. 9How do you protect the yard and clean up nails?
10. 10What is the payment schedule?

Yes. After hail and wind, out-of-town crews knock on doors. Get your own inspection from an established local company, and do not sign an agreement that hands your insurance claim to someone you have not verified.

Repair or replace?

Read roof repair vs. roof replacement and what a new roof costs in Middle Tennessee.

Where do I find roofers near me?

Browse roofing companies or start in Murfreesboro, Nashville or Clarksville.