Finding a good roofer in Brooklyn can feel like a real headache, right? Everyone says they’re the best, but not all deliver what they promise. That’s why knowing how to hire the right roofing contractor in Brooklyn, NY, is so important. The right roofer will check everything properly, use solid materials, be honest about costs, and finish the job safely without giving you stress later.Your roof keeps your whole home safe, so choosing the wrong person can cost you big time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything, like how to find a reliable roofer, what questions to ask, what red flags to spot, and how to avoid scams.By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to do and who to trust when it’s time to fix or replace your roof.
Tips on How to Hire the Right Roofing Contractor in Brooklyn, NY
Now is the time to get some important tips by which you can hire an experienced and reliable roofing contractor in Brooklyn, NY.
1. Start With Local Research and Referrals
Always start with people you trust and what’s near you. Ask your neighbors, friends, or family who recently got roofing work done. Brooklyn homes deal with the same weather and building codes, so local referrals are super useful.Then check online platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). These reviews help you see how honest a contractor is, how good their work looks, and how they treat their clients.
Platform
What to Check
Why It Matters
Google Reviews
Star rating, customer feedback
Shows real client experiences
BBB
Accreditation, complaint history
Tells you if they handle issues professionally
Yelp
Project photos, response time
Helps verify work quality and reliability
2. Verify License and Insurance — No Exceptions
In New York City, every roofing contractor must be licensed by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). You can check their license online on the official DCWP website.Also, ask for proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. These protect you if a worker gets injured or if your property is damaged during the job.For instance, if a roofer slips while working and doesn’t have insurance, you might be held responsible for their medical costs. Always verify before signing anything.
3. Check Experience and Local Knowledge
Roofing in Brooklyn is different from roofing in other areas. Roofs here deal with flat designs, cold winters, and strong summer heat. So choose someone who has worked on Brooklyn-style roofs before.Ask:
How many years have you worked in NYC?
What type of roofing projects have you handled (flat, asphalt, metal, etc.)?
Can you share photos or addresses of completed jobs nearby?
Tip: Contractors with over five years of Brooklyn-specific experience usually handle permits, weather problems, and inspections more smoothly.Choosing the right type of contractor matters for your roof. Learn more in our guide: home improvement contractor vs general contractor: which one is better?
4. Request at Least Three Written Estimates
Never stick to the first quote. Always get detailed, written bids from at least three contractors. Compare their prices line by line, not just the total.A good estimate should include:
Type and brand of materials
Labor cost
Project timeline
Cleanup and disposal plan
Warranty information
Also, remember that the cheapest quote isn’t always the best. Some contractors may use poor-quality materials or skip cleanup, which could cause extra costs later.
5. Review the Contract in Detail
Never start work without a written and signed contract. It protects both you and the roofer. Your contract should clearly mention:
Total project cost
Payment schedule
Start and completion dates
Materials and brands
Warranty coverage
Who handles permits and inspections
For example, if your contractor promises a 20-year warranty but it’s not written in the contract, it doesn’t count. Always make sure promises are written down.
6. Understand the Warranty Terms
A good roofer gives two warranties, one for materials and one for workmanship.
The manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in the roofing materials.
The workmanship warranty covers mistakes made during installation.
Tip: Ask how long each warranty lasts and what it includes.
7. Ask About Permits and Compliance
In NYC, many roofing jobs need permits from the Department of Buildings (DOB). Your roofer should handle all permits and inspections. This keeps the work legal and safe, following NYC building rules.Ask:
Will you handle all DOB permits?
How do you make sure the work meets NYC code standards?
Example:If a contractor skips permits to “save time,” the city might fine you later or force you to redo the work.
8. Evaluate Communication and Professionalism
Pay attention to how the contractor talks and responds.
Do they call you back quickly?
Do they explain things clearly?
Do they answer all your questions with patience?
A good roofer always keeps communication open. If they’re hard to reach before the job, it’ll probably be worse once work starts.
9. Spot and Avoid Roofing Scams or Fraud
Sadly, roofing scams happen, especially after storms. Here’s how to catch red flags early.
Red Flag
What It Means
No written contract
They can change prices later
Cash-only payment
Usually means unlicensed work
High-pressure sales
They want you to commit before comparing
Very low bid
They may use cheap materials or vanish midway
No local address
Hard to reach later for repairs or warranty claims
For instance, if someone knocks on your door offering “storm damage repair” and demands cash up front, that’s a scam. Always check their license and business address first.
10. Inspect the Work Before Final Payment
When the job is done, inspect everything carefully.
Make sure all roof areas are sealed well.
Look for leftover nails or debris.
Confirm that all promised materials were actually used.
Only pay the final amount after you’re happy with the work and have received all warranty papers.
Know the Average Roofing Costs in Brooklyn (2025 and 2026)
Here’s a quick look at what roofing costs usually look like this year:
Note: Prices change depending on roof size, how easy it is to access, and the brand of materials used.
Ask the Right Questions Before Hiring
Always treat this like a job interview. Here are key questions to ask:
Are you licensed to work in NYC?
Can you show proof of insurance?
How long have you worked in Brooklyn?
Do you have local references I can contact?
Who will be on-site during the project?
What’s your cleanup process?
How long is your workmanship warranty?
These questions help you quickly identify professionals from pretenders.
Got Roof Problems? Let’s Fix Them the Right Way
Leaky roof? Damaged shingles? Or maybe your roof just looks tired? Don’t stress. We can help. At AKT Construction NY Inc., we don’t just cover up issues. We find the real cause and fix it properly. From small leaks to full roof replacements, our Brooklyn roofing team handles it all with care and honesty.We use top materials, work neatly, and keep you updated the whole time. You’ll know exactly what’s happening and why.
Call AKT Construction NY Inc. today: +1 (929) 631-5866Let’s check your roof, fix the problems, and give your home the protection it deserves.
Wrapping Up
In short, hiring a roofer doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing. You just need to know what to check and what to avoid. That’s really what how to hire the right Roofing Contractors in Brooklyn, NY is all about, like taking simple, smart steps that save you from big problems later.When you follow these steps, you protect your home, your budget, and your peace of mind. And in the end, you’ll have a strong, safe roof that lasts for many years.
FAQs
How do I know if a roofing contractor is licensed in Brooklyn?
You can easily check if a roofer is licensed by asking for their license number and verifying it on New York City’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection website.
What questions should I ask before hiring a roofing contractor?
Always ask about their experience, insurance, warranty, and how long the project will take. It’s also smart to ask for references or photos of past work. This helps you see their quality and reliability before trusting them with your roof.
How long does a typical roof replacement take in Brooklyn?
Most residential roof replacements take about two to five days, depending on roof size and weather. If the weather is rough or the roof is complex, it might take a bit longer. A good contractor will give you a clear time estimate before starting.
Do Brooklyn roofing contractors give free estimates?
Yes, most do. Many professional roofing companies in Brooklyn offer free roof inspections and written estimates. This helps you compare quotes and choose wisely without paying anything upfront.
What should I do if my roof starts leaking suddenly?
If your roof starts leaking, place a bucket under the leak to avoid damage and call a roofer right away. Try to take photos of the leak too. They’ll help with insurance claims. Never wait too long, as leaks get worse fast.
Can I hire a roofer during winter in Brooklyn?
Yes, you can, but it depends on the weather conditions. Many roofers still work on mild winter days, but heavy snow or ice can delay work. Always ask your contractor if the weather is suitable before scheduling repairs.
Do I need to be home when roof work is happening?
Not always, but it helps. Being home allows you to ask questions and keep an eye on progress. If you can’t be there, make sure you trust the contractor and stay in touch through calls or photos.
How long does a new roof usually last in Brooklyn?
A new asphalt shingle roof can last around 20 to 30 years if properly installed and maintained. Metal or tile roofs last even longer. Regular roof inspections every year or after storms help keep it strong.
What signs show it’s time to replace my roof instead of repairing it?
If you see curling shingles, frequent leaks, or patches of missing tiles, it might be time for a replacement. Also, if your roof is over 20 years old, it’s usually better to replace it than keep repairing it. A roofer can inspect and confirm what’s best.
