Before You Hire ANY Roofing Contractor, Verify These 6 Things

Before You Hire ANY Roofing Contractor, Verify These 6 Things

Don't simply take a salesperson's word for it.

Verify everything.

A reputable contractor will gladly provide proof.

1. Read Their Google Reviews

Don't settle for a company with only a handful of reviews.

Look for a contractor with 40–50 or more verified 5-star Google reviews from real local customers.

Read the comments—not just the star rating.

Pay attention to what homeowners consistently say about:

• Communication
• Cleanliness
• Workmanship
• Warranty service
• Professionalism
• Whether they'd hire the company again

A strong, long-term reputation is earned—not bought.

2. Verify Their General Liability Insurance

Never accept, "Yes, we're insured."

Ask for a current Certificate of Insurance (COI) showing at least $1,000,000 in General Liability coverage.

Then take one extra step that many homeowners never think to do:

Call the insurance agent listed on the certificate and verify the policy is active.

Ask:

• Is this policy currently in force?
• Does it provide at least $1,000,000 in General Liability coverage?
• Has the policy been canceled or is it scheduled to expire soon?

A legitimate contractor won't be offended—they'll respect that you're protecting your investment.

3. Verify Their Kentucky Business Registration

Before signing anything, confirm the company is an active business in Kentucky.

Use the official Kentucky Secretary of State Business Entity Search:

https://sosbes.sos.ky.gov/BusSearchNProfile/Search.aspx

Better yet, search for yourself using the official Kentucky Secretary of State business database to confirm the company is active and in good standing.

If you can't find the company—or its status isn't active—that should prompt additional questions.

4. Ask About Manufacturer Certifications

Don't assume every roofer is qualified to install every roofing system.

Ask:

• Are you an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor?
• Are you Factory Certified?
• Which manufacturers have certified your company?
• What enhanced warranty options do those certifications make available?

Manufacturer certifications typically require contractors to meet specific standards for installation practices and business performance. Some enhanced manufacturer-backed warranties are available only through qualified contractors. Warranty eligibility varies by manufacturer and warranty program. Always ask to review the warranty documentation before signing.

5. Ask Who Will Actually Install Your Roof

Many companies sell the job...

...then hand it off to subcontractors you've never met.

Ask:

• Who will supervise my project?
• Are the installers employees or subcontractors?
• How long have they been installing roofs?
• What roofing-specific training have they completed?

You're not hiring a salesperson.

You're hiring the people who will protect your home.

6. Compare Qualifications—Not Just Price

The cheapest estimate often leaves out important items.

Instead of asking:

"Who's the cheapest?"

Ask:

• Who has the best reputation?
• Who has the strongest credentials?
• Who has the proper insurance?
• Who has manufacturer certifications?
• Who has a proven history of standing behind their work?
• Who will still be here years from now?

Remember...

A roof isn't something you want installed twice.

The bitterness of poor quality lasts long after the sweetness of a low price is forgotten.

When it comes to protecting your home, business, or farm...

Qualifications matter. Experience matters. Accountability matters.

Choose your contractor accordingly.