Updated July 2026 · RoofSkill Editorial
Roofing is one of the most storm-chaser-prone trades in Texas. After every hail event, out-of-town crews flood DFW neighborhoods — some good, many not. These twelve questions separate professionals from problems.
1. Are you licensed and insured — can I see certificates? Texas doesn't require a state roofing license, which makes insurance proof even more important. Ask for general liability (at least $1M) and workers' comp certificates sent directly from their insurer.
2. What's your physical business address? A local address you can visit matters when warranty issues arise three years from now. Storm chasers work out of trucks and disappear.
3. How long have you operated in this market? Verify against their Google reviews history and state business filings — not just what the sales rep says.
4. Are you a manufacturer-certified installer? GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Platinum, and CertainTeed SELECT certifications unlock stronger manufacturer warranties and indicate vetted installation quality.
5. Who actually does the installation? Most roofs are installed by subcontracted crews — that's normal. What matters: does the company use consistent crews, and is a company supervisor on-site?
6. Full tear-off or overlay? The right answer is almost always tear-off. Overlays hide decking rot and void most warranties.
7. What's included in writing? Decking repair pricing per sheet, drip edge, ice-and-water shield in valleys, underlayment type, ridge vents, and haul-away should all be itemized.
8. How do you handle unexpected decking damage? Get the per-sheet price in the contract before work starts — this is the most common source of surprise charges.
9. What's the workmanship warranty? Materials warranties come from the manufacturer; leaks come from installation. Look for 5–10 years workmanship coverage from a company likely to still exist then.
10. What are the payment terms? Never pay in full up front. Typical legitimate terms: little or nothing down, balance on completion. Large deposits are a red flag in a trade where suppliers extend credit.
11. Will you provide a lien waiver? If the roofer doesn't pay their supplier, a lien can land on your house. A final lien waiver protects you.
12. Who is my single point of contact? Storm-season chaos is real; you want one name and number, not a call center.
Offering to waive your insurance deductible (illegal in Texas), pressure to sign a "letter of intent" on the first visit, no physical address, and quotes wildly below everyone else's. Compare vetted, review-verified companies on RoofSkill's city directories before you shortlist.
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