How to check a roofer is legitimate
**TL;DR: Check if your roofer has valid insurance, verifiable credentials, and positive customer reviews. Ask for references, get multiple quotes, and ensure they’re registered with a recognised body like the NFRC or Guild of Master Craftsmen. Never pay upfront.**
## Introduction
Finding a trustworthy roofer in the UK isn’t always straightforward. You’re inviting someone onto your home and paying them to do essential work. That’s why checking a roofer is legitimate matters so much. A dodgy trader can cost you thousands in poor workmanship and leave your home vulnerable to water damage. The good news? You can spot a legitimate roofer by doing a few simple checks. This guide walks you through exactly what to look for, from insurance to credentials to customer feedback. You’ll feel confident hiring someone who’ll do the job right.
## Is your roofer properly insured?
**Always ask for proof of public liability insurance and employer’s liability insurance if they hire staff. A legitimate roofer will have both without hesitation.**
Insurance is your safety net. If something goes wrong or someone gets hurt, you’re protected. Ask the roofer for their insurance certificate directly. Don’t just take their word for it. Most reputable traders will email you a copy immediately. Check the policy covers roofing work specifically. Some general insurance policies exclude certain jobs. The coverage amount should be at least £1 million for public liability. This protects you if damage occurs to your property or a neighbour’s during the work.
## Can they prove they’re registered with a recognised body?
**Look for membership in the NFRC, Guild of Master Craftsmen, or Which? Trusted Traders. These organisations vet members properly and handle complaints if issues arise.**
Legitimate roofers often belong to professional bodies. The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) is the biggest one in the UK. Guild of Master Craftsmen membership also carries weight. These organisations have strict standards. They require members to carry proper insurance and maintain quality standards. You can check the NFRC website to verify a roofer’s membership. Some roofers join WHICH? Trusted Traders too. This means WHICH? has vetted them. It’s not a guarantee of perfection, but it’s a good sign they take their reputation seriously.
## Do they have genuine customer reviews you can check?
**Read reviews on Google, Trustpilot, and Checkatrade. A legitimate roofer will have multiple positive reviews with specific details about completed jobs.**
Customer reviews tell the real story. Go to Google Maps and search the company name. Look for detailed reviews, not just star ratings. Someone who says “Great job, finished on time” is more credible than “Perfect work”. Check Trustpilot as well. Checkatrade is specifically for tradespeople in the UK. A legitimate roofer will have history there. Be wary if they have no reviews at all. Also watch for suspiciously perfect ratings with no negative feedback ever. Real businesses have the occasional complaint. See how the roofer responds to criticism. Professionals handle complaints professionally.
## What should you ask for before hiring?
**Request references from recent customers, a detailed written quote, and copies of qualifications. Legitimate roofers provide all of this without hesitation or extra charges.**
Get at least three quotes from different roofers. Compare the prices and what’s included. If one quote is far cheaper than others, ask why. Cheap often means cutting corners. Request references from recent work. Call or email previous customers if possible. Ask them about quality, timeliness, and communication. Get the quote in writing. It should list what work is included, materials used, and the total cost. Ask about guarantees. Reputable roofers guarantee their workmanship for 5-10 years. Material guarantees vary by product but should be clearly stated.
## Red flags that suggest a roofer isn’t legitimate
Watch out for roofers who demand full payment upfront. They should ask for maybe 25% deposit and the rest on completion. Avoid anyone who pushes you to decide quickly or offers a one-time discount if you sign today. Legitimate traders let you think it through. Be suspicious of anyone working entirely from cash with no receipt system. Get everything in writing before work starts.
## Conclusion
Checking a roofer is legitimate protects your home and your wallet. Verify insurance, check professional memberships, read customer reviews, and ask for references. Get quotes in writing and never pay everything upfront. These steps take an hour but save you from costly mistakes later. Ready to find a trustworthy roofer? Find a roofer near you by searching our free UK directory today. You’ll discover vetted local traders ready to help with your roof.
## FAQ
**Can I check if a roofer is insured without asking them?**
You can check some insurance companies’ registers online, but it’s limited. Always ask the roofer directly for proof. They should provide it without fuss.
**What’s the minimum insurance amount I should expect?**
Public liability insurance should be at least £1 million. Some roofers carry more, which is better. Always check the certificate yourself.
**Are online reviews always reliable?**
Most reviews are honest, but not all. Look for detailed feedback with specific examples. Be wary of exclusively perfect or completely negative reviews.
**What guarantees should a legitimate roofer offer?**
They should guarantee their workmanship for 5-10 years minimum. Materials usually have longer guarantees from manufacturers, typically 10-20 years.
**How much should I pay upfront?**
A deposit of 25-50% is standard. Never pay 100% upfront. Pay most on completion of work to ensure they finish the job properly.