10 things to check before hiring a roofer
# 10 Things to Check Before Hiring a Roofer
**TL;DR:** Before hiring a roofer, check their qualifications, insurance, references, and pricing. Ensure they’re registered with relevant bodies like NFRC or FASS. Get written quotes from multiple companies. Verify their experience with your roof type. Ask about guarantees and timescales. Always get everything in writing to protect yourself.
## Introduction
Hiring a roofer is one of the biggest home improvement decisions you’ll make. Your roof protects everything you own. It shields your family from the elements. Yet many homeowners rush this process and end up with poor workmanship or hidden costs.
A bad roofer can cost you thousands in repairs. They might use cheap materials that fail quickly. Worse, they could cause structural damage that’s expensive to fix.
The good news? You can avoid these problems. This guide shows you exactly what to check before hiring a roofer. We’ll cover the essentials that every homeowner needs to know. Following these steps takes just a few hours. It’ll save you money and stress later.
## Are They Properly Qualified and Insured?
**This is your first priority.** A qualified roofer holds relevant certifications from bodies like the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) or similar organisations. They should carry public liability insurance and employer’s liability if they have staff. Always ask to see proof.
Uninsured roofers are a serious risk. If someone gets injured on your property, you could be liable for costs. Insurance also shows the roofer takes their work seriously. It means they’re operating as a legitimate business, not a cowboy.
Check their credentials are current and valid. You can verify NFRC membership on their website. Ask how long they’ve been trading. Experience matters, especially with complex jobs.
## Do They Offer Written Quotes and Detailed Breakdowns?
**Can they give you a clear, itemised quote in writing?** Any reputable roofer should provide a detailed quote listing materials, labour costs, and timescales. This protects both of you. It prevents misunderstandings about price and scope.
Compare quotes from at least three roofers. Prices vary across the UK. A quote significantly lower than others might mean lower quality materials or rushed work. A quote much higher doesn’t always mean better service.
Ask what’s included. Does it cover scaffolding? Waste removal? Roof inspections? The cheapest quote often hides extra costs later. Written quotes should break down every expense clearly.
## Have You Checked Their References and Reviews?
**What do previous customers actually say about their work?** Ask for at least three recent references. Contact them directly. Ask about punctuality, cleanliness, and finish quality. Were there any problems after completion?
Check online reviews on Google, Trustpilot, and local business directories. Read negative reviews carefully. How did the roofer respond? Did they try to fix problems? Honest businesses have a mix of reviews. Ones that’re all perfect seem suspicious.
Visit previous jobs if possible. You’ll see the quality of their work firsthand. Check how they left the site. Professional roofers clean up thoroughly and protect your property.
## What Guarantees Do They Provide?
**Do they guarantee their workmanship and materials for a set period?** Most reputable roofers offer 5-10 year guarantees on labour. Material warranties depend on what you’re using. Slate lasts decades. Felt might only last 10-15 years.
Get guarantees in writing. Know exactly what’s covered. Are they responsible if leaks appear after six months? What about weather damage? Understand the terms before signing anything.
Some roofers offer extended warranties for extra cost. This is worth considering if you’re doing a major job. Check whether guarantees transfer if you sell your home. Some do. Some don’t.
## Do They Specialise in Your Roof Type?
**Have they worked with your specific roof material before?** Slate, tile, felt, and metal roofs all need different expertise. A roofer experienced with slate might not be the best choice for a flat felt roof. Experience matters hugely for quality results.
Ask about the techniques they’ll use. Modern methods differ from traditional ones. Some roofs benefit from older techniques. Others need newer approaches. The right roofer knows the difference.
Check how long they estimate the job will take. This gives you an idea of their experience level. Complex jobs shouldn’t be rushed.
## Conclusion
Hiring a roofer doesn’t have to be stressful. Use this checklist every time. Check qualifications, insurance, and references. Get written quotes from multiple companies. Understand their guarantees fully. Take your time with the decision.
A good roofer is worth the effort to find. They’ll do quality work that lasts decades. Your roof protects everything you value most. It deserves a professional who cares. Find a roofer near you by searching our free UK directory today.
## FAQ
**How much does a new roof cost in the UK?**
Costs vary widely depending on size and materials. A typical semi-detached house might cost £3,000-£8,000. Slate roofing is more expensive than felt. Always get multiple quotes for accurate pricing.
**Should I get my roof surveyed before hiring a roofer?**
Yes, if there’s any damage or the roof’s aged. A survey costs £100-£200 but reveals problems early. It helps roofers give accurate quotes. It’s especially important for listed buildings.
**What’s the difference between NFRC and other roofing certifications?**
NFRC is the largest UK roofing contractor association. FASS (Federation of Associations of Specialist Installers) covers installers. Both verify proper training and insurance. Membership shows professional standards.
**Can I haggle on roofer quotes?**
You can negotiate, especially on larger jobs. Don’t push prices too low though. Cheap work often means poor quality. A small discount is reasonable. Cutting quotes in half usually indicates problems.
**How long should I wait before roofers can start work?**
It depends on their schedule. Good roofers stay busy. 2-4 weeks is common. Avoid roofers offering immediate start dates. They might not have steady work, suggesting quality issues.