Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home — and one of the most expensive to replace. Choosing the wrong contractor can mean poor workmanship, voided warranties, or worse: being left with damage and no recourse when the contractor disappears.
Here's what every homeowner should verify before signing a roofing contract.
1Proper Insurance Coverage
Why Insurance Matters
A professional roofer should carry a true roofing insurance policy — not just a general contractor policy. Roofing has specific risks (working at height, potential for water damage, etc.) that require specific coverage.
Without proper insurance, you could be liable if a worker is injured on your property, or left paying out of pocket if your home is damaged during the project.
What to Verify:
General Liability Insurance
- Minimum of $1 million coverage
- Preferably $2 million for full protection
- Should cover your home AND all possessions inside
Workers' Compensation Insurance
- Must cover the entire crew, not just one person
- Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property
- Watch out: Some contractors have coverage for only the owner
Don't Just Take Their Word For It
Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and call the insurance company to verify it's current. Some contractors let policies lapse or carry fake documentation.
2Manufacturer Certifications
Why Certification Matters
Many homeowners don't realize that your warranty is directly tied to your contractor's certification level. A contractor without manufacturer certification can only offer you limited warranties — even if they use the exact same materials.
Higher certification levels unlock better warranties, including coverage for workmanship (not just materials) and longer terms.
Certification Levels Explained:
Basic Certified Contractor
Entry-level certification. Limited warranty options — typically materials only, no workmanship coverage.
Master Elite (GAF) / SELECT ShingleMaster (CertainTeed)
Top-tier certification. Only 2-3% of contractors achieve this level. Unlocks premium warranties up to 50 years including full workmanship coverage.
FORTIFIED by IBHS
Special certification for storm-resistant roofing. May qualify for insurance discounts. Requires specific training and adherence to enhanced installation standards.
Pro Tip
Ask prospective contractors: "What's the best warranty you can offer, and what certification allows you to offer it?" If they can't answer clearly, that's a red flag.
3Red Flags: Spotting "Storm Chasers"
After major storms, out-of-state contractors often flood affected areas. They're commonly called "storm chasers" — they do quick work, cash the insurance check, and disappear. If problems arise later, you have no recourse.
Warning Signs
- • Going door-to-door after storms
- • Out-of-state license plates
- • No local address or phone number
- • Pressure to sign immediately
- • "Special pricing" that expires today
- • Asking for full payment upfront
- • No written contract or vague terms
Good Signs
- • Local address and established business
- • Verifiable insurance and certifications
- • Good reviews from local customers
- • No pressure — willing to answer questions
- • Clear, written contract
- • Reasonable payment terms
- • BBB accredited or positive rating
Your Hiring Checklist
Before signing with any roofing contractor, verify:
NC Roofing Service Meets Every Requirement
$2M liability coverage. Full crew workers' comp. Certified by GAF, Owens Corning, AND CertainTeed. FORTIFIED certified. BBB A+ rated. Local to Rougemont since 2018.
NC Roofing Service and Repair, LLC
Certified, licensed and insured roofing professionals serving the NC Triangle since 2018. Based in Rougemont, NC.