How to Spot a Quality Roofing Contractor: 5 Red Flags to Avoid

Hiring a roofing contractor can feel like walking into a minefield.
You’re trusting someone with one of the most critical parts of your home, and if you choose wrong, the consequences can be costly—financially and emotionally.
But here’s the thing: spotting a quality roofing contractor isn’t rocket science. It’s about knowing what to look for and, more importantly, what to avoid.

Let’s break down five red flags that should send you running in the opposite direction.

Lack of Proper Licensing and Insurance

This one’s a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many homeowners skip this step. A contractor without proper licensing or insurance is a disaster waiting to happen.

• Why It’s a Red Flag: Licensing ensures the contractor meets local requirements and standards. Insurance protects you if something goes wrong—like an injury on your property or damage to your home.
• What to Do: Always ask for proof of licensing and insurance. A reputable contractor will have no problem providing this information. If they hesitate or make excuses, that’s your cue to walk away.

No Portfolio or References

A contractor who can’t show you examples of their work or provide references is like a chef who’s never cooked a meal. It’s a huge red flag.

• Why It’s a Red Flag: Quality contractors take pride in their work and are eager to show it off. If they can’t provide a portfolio or references, it could mean they’re inexperienced—or worse, hiding something.
• What to Do: Ask to see photos of completed projects and speak to past clients. Better yet, see if they’ll let you visit a job site to observe their crew in action. As I’ve said before, no contractor is going to send you pictures of their bad work, but seeing them in action or hearing from real customers will give you a clearer picture of their quality ‌1‌.

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Ever had a contractor tell you, “This deal is only good if you sign today”? That’s a classic high-pressure sales tactic, and it’s a major red flag.

• Why It’s a Red Flag: Quality contractors don’t need to strong-arm you into making a decision. They let their work and reputation speak for themselves. High-pressure tactics often indicate desperation or a lack of confidence in their services.
• What to Do: Take your time. A good contractor will respect your decision-making process and provide a detailed, written estimate for you to review at your own pace.

Unrealistically Low Bids

If a contractor’s bid is significantly lower than others, it might seem like a great deal—but it’s often too good to be true.

• Why It’s a Red Flag: Low bids can indicate corner-cutting, subpar materials, or hidden fees that will pop up later. Remember, you get what you pay for. As I’ve said before, roofing is a tough job, and if someone’s offering to do it for peanuts, they’re likely sacrificing quality—or safety—to make it work ‌3‌.
• What to Do: Compare bids carefully. Look for details about materials, labor, and warranties. If something seems off, ask questions. A reputable contractor will be transparent about their pricing.

Poor Communication

If a contractor is hard to reach, doesn’t return your calls, or gives vague answers to your questions, consider it a red flag.

• Why It’s a Red Flag: Communication is key in any project, especially one as significant as roofing. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and unmet expectations.
• What to Do: Pay attention to how the contractor communicates from the start. Are they responsive? Do they answer your questions clearly? Do they explain their process? If not, it’s time to move on.

Bonus Tip: Trust Your Gut

Sometimes, a contractor might check all the boxes on paper but still give you a bad feeling. Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right roofing contractor doesn’t have to be stressful. By knowing the red flags to watch for, you can avoid common pitfalls and find a contractor who will deliver quality work and peace of mind.

Ready to work with a contractor you can trust?
Contact MARASUN today for expert roofing services backed by integrity, transparency, and a commitment to excellence. Let us show you what a quality roofing experience looks like.