Top 20 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Hiring a roofing contractor in Brooklyn is not something you do every day. You notice a leak. Shingles look worn. Rain sounds different than before. At that moment, most people start searching for a roofing contractor, hoping to fix the problem fast without making it worse. But rushing this decision often leads to poor work, hidden costs, and stress that could have been avoided.

Your roof protects your home, your family, and everything inside. A bad roofer can leave you with leaks, damaged ceilings, and expensive repairs later. That is why asking the right questions before hiring matters more than picking the cheapest quote.

So, what should you really ask before hiring a roofer? The answer is simple. You need to ask clear, practical questions that reveal their experience, work quality, pricing, warranties, and communication style. 

That is exactly what this guide will show you: the top 20 questions to ask before hiring a roofing contractor. If you want to avoid costly mistakes and feel confident about who you hire, keep reading.

Here are the Top 20 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor in Brooklyn

Now, let’s show you those crucial questions you must ask before hiring a roofing contractor in Brooklyn.

1. Are You Licensed and Fully Insured?

This question protects you more than any other. A professional roofer should hold the proper license required in their city or state. Licensing shows they are legally allowed to do roofing work.

Insurance is just as important. They must have general liability insurance to cover damage to your home. They must also have workers’ compensation insurance to cover injuries on your property.

If they cannot show proof in writing, do not hire them. Without insurance, you could be responsible for accidents. AKT Construction NY Inc. holds a valid NYC Home Improvement Contractor License, issued by the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.

The license is active and registered in Brooklyn, confirming legal approval to perform home improvement and roofing work.

2. How Long Have You Been Working in Roofing?

Do not just ask how long the company has existed. Ask about total roofing experience. Many owners worked for other roofing companies for years before starting their own. An experienced roofer understands problems before they become costly mistakes. More experience usually means better planning and better results.

3. Can You Provide References and Examples of Past Work?

A trustworthy roofer is proud of their work. They will show photos and give names of past customers.

• Call at least one reference.
• Ask if the job finished on time.
• Ask if the price stayed the same.
• Ask if the roofer responded quickly to concerns.

Honest answers tell you a lot.

4. Do You Have Manufacturer or Industry Certifications?

Certifications mean training and quality standards. Many manufacturers only certify roofers who follow strict installation rules. This often leads to better workmanship and stronger warranties. It also shows the roofer takes their work seriously.

5. Are You a Local Company with a Physical Office?

Local roofers, like AKT Construction NY Inc., care about their reputation. They rely on word of mouth and repeat customers. A physical office means they are easy to find if something goes wrong. Be careful with companies that only have a phone number. A real address shows stability.

6. Will You Perform a Full Roof Inspection?

A proper roof inspection, especially after a storm, takes time. It includes shingles, flashing, valleys, chimney, attic, decking, and ventilation. Quick quotes without inspection often lead to surprise costs later. A good roofer explains what they see and why it matters. This shows honesty.

7. Will You Check Attic Ventilation and Explain It?

Ventilation is critical for roof life. Poor ventilation can damage shingles and cause moisture problems inside your home. A skilled roofer checks airflow and explains improvements clearly. If they skip this, they are cutting corners.

8. Will You Handle Permits and Inspections?

Roofing projects often need permits. A professional roofer handles the paperwork and inspections for you. You usually pay the permit fee. They manage the process. If they avoid permits, that is risky.

9. What Roofing Materials Do You Recommend and Why?

A good roofer gives you options. They explain different materials, styles, colors, and price ranges. They also explain which materials suit your climate best. You should never feel pushed into one option. Education matters more than sales.

10. Will You Use Subcontractors on My Project?

Some companies use subcontractors. That is fine if they are trained, insured, and supervised. Ask who is responsible for their work. You should only deal with one company, not many people. Clear responsibility avoids problems.

11. What is the Expected Project Timeline?

Ask when the job will start. Ask how long it will take once it begins. Weather delays happen. A good roofer explains how they handle delays and keep you informed. Clear timelines reduce stress.

12. How Will You Protect My Property During the Job?

Roofing creates debris. Nails and shingles can fall. A professional roofing contractor in Brooklyn explains how they protect landscaping, siding, driveways, and windows. They plan safety before work starts. This shows respect for your home.

13. How do You Handle Hidden Damage Like Rotten Decking?

Some damage is hidden until old materials are removed. Ask how they identify and fix these problems. They should explain pricing clearly before extra work begins. No surprises should appear on the final bill.

14. How do You Ensure Proper Installation?

Ask about fastening, flashing, underlayment, and sealing. A skilled roofer explains how each layer works together. Good installation prevents leaks and extends roof life. Clear answers show expertise.

15. What Exactly is Included in the Written Estimate?

Everything must be in writing.

• Materials.
• Labor.
• Tear-off.
• Disposal.
• Cleanup.

If something is not written, it may not be included. Written clarity protects you.

16. What Warranties do You Offer?

There are two warranties.

• Material warranty from the manufacturer.
• Workmanship warranty from the roofer.

Ask how long each lasts and how claims are handled. A good roofer explains this clearly.

17. What are Your Payment Terms?

Never pay the full amount up front. Most standard jobs require little or no deposit. Final payment should be due only after completion and inspection. Payments should always be traceable.

18. How do You Handle Unexpected Costs or Changes?

Problems can happen. What matters is how they are handled. A professional roofer discusses changes before doing extra work. Your approval should always come first.

19. Who will be My Main Contact During the Project?

You should know who to call. Ask how often updates are given. Good communication builds trust. Poor communication causes frustration.

20. How will You Clean Up and Close the Project?

Cleanup is part of the job. Ask about dumpsters, nail magnets, and final walkthroughs. Your home should look safe and clean when they leave. A final inspection confirms everything is done right.

Why You Can Rely on AKT Construction NY Inc. for Your Roofing Needs

You can rely on AKT Construction NY Inc. because we give you real value, not empty promises. We start with a free roof inspection and a free, honest quote so you know exactly what your roof needs and what it will cost. Our team is fully licensed and insured, and we use quality materials that last through Brooklyn’s weather. 

We handle repairs, replacements, maintenance, emergency service, gutters, and skylights all in one place. We keep you informed at every step, protect your property, finish on time, and clean up properly. 

We also offer warranties and maintenance plans to help your roof last longer and save you money over time. If you want stress-free roofing done right, call AKT Construction NY Inc. today and get your free quote.

Wrapping Up

Choosing a roofing contractor in Brooklyn is not about the lowest price. It is about trust, quality, and long-term protection. These are the top 20 questions to ask before hiring a roofing contractor. Listen carefully to the answers. Get everything in writing. When a roofer explains clearly, answers confidently, and respects your concerns, that is when you know hiring them is worth it.