Questions to ask a roofer before you hire

Built from the Federal Trade Commission's and the Texas Department of Insurance's advice. Ask these on the phone, before anyone climbs on your roof.

What to ask

1. Can you give me a written estimate? Get more than one. Three helps you spot a price that is too high or too good to be true.
2. Can you send your insurance certificate? Texas does not license roofers, so this matters more than a "licensed" claim. Why.
3. Who pulls the permits? A contractor who asks you to get them is a warning sign.
4. How much do you need up front? Don't pay the full amount before the work is done.
5. Who have you done work for nearby? Ask for references and check them.
6. Will everything you just told me be in the contract? Promises made on the phone belong on paper.

What the contract should say

• The roofer's name, address and phone number.
• An estimated start and completion date.
• Any promises made in conversation.
• If you signed it at home: your right to cancel within three business days, in writing.
• No blank spaces. Every line filled in.

Warning signs

• They knock on your door because they are "in the area".
• They have materials "left over from another job".
• They push you to decide right now.
• They want everything up front, or cash only.
• They ask you to get the permits.
• They push a lender they know.

Paying

Don't make the final payment until the work is done and you are happy with it.

Questions homeowners ask

What should be in a roofing contract?

The FTC says the contract should include the contractor's name, address and phone number, an estimated start and completion date, any promises made in conversation, and, if you signed it at home, your right to cancel within three business days. Every blank should be filled in.

How much should I pay a roofer up front?

The FTC says don't pay the full amount up front and don't make the final payment until the work is done and you are satisfied. The Texas Department of Insurance adds that after a disaster, out-of-town contractors cannot ask for a down payment before they start.

What are the warning signs of a roofing scam?

The FTC lists: knocking on your door because they are in the area, leftover materials from another job, pressure to decide now, asking for everything up front or cash only, asking you to get the permits, and pushing a lender they know.

Can I cancel a roofing contract I signed at home?

The FTC says your contract should include a written statement of your right to cancel within three business days if you signed it in your home.

Sources

• Federal Trade Commission: How to avoid a home improvement scam
• Texas Department of Insurance: How to avoid contracting scams

This is general information, not legal advice. Checked Sep 26, 2026.