Before signing with a roofing contractor in Asheville, arm yourself with these 10 essential questions to ensure you’re hiring a reliable, qualified professional for your home’s protection.
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10 Critical Questions Every Asheville Homeowner Should Ask Before Hiring a Roofer
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against Western North Carolina’s unpredictable weather patterns—from heavy summer downpours to occasional winter snow and ice. When it’s time to repair or replace this crucial investment, the contractor you choose makes all the difference between a roof that lasts decades and one that develops problems within years. Before signing any contract, arm yourself with knowledge by asking these essential questions.
Why These Questions Matter for Asheville Homeowners
The unique climate and building requirements in Western North Carolina demand specific expertise from roofing contractors. From understanding how to properly install roofing to withstand our region’s weather to navigating local building codes in Buncombe County, the right roofer needs specialized knowledge. These questions will help you identify contractors who truly understand our local roofing needs.
The 10 Questions You Must Ask
1. Are you properly licensed and insured in North Carolina?
Never work with a contractor who can’t provide proof of proper licensing and insurance. In North Carolina, roofing contractors need a license for projects exceeding $30,000. Ask for their license number and verify it with the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. Also request certificates for both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you from liability if accidents occur on your property.
2. Do you have experience with Asheville’s specific roofing challenges?
Western North Carolina has unique weather patterns and architectural considerations. Ask how long they’ve worked in the area and for specific examples of how they address regional challenges like humidity, heavy rains, and occasional ice dams. A contractor familiar with local conditions will recommend appropriate materials and installation techniques for our climate.
3. Can you provide references from recent local projects?
Request at least three references from projects completed within the past year, specifically in the Asheville area. Contact these homeowners and ask about their experience. Even better, ask if you can drive by to see their roof in person. Quality contractors are proud of their work and happy to connect you with satisfied customers.
4. What warranty do you offer on workmanship?
Manufacturer warranties cover materials, but workmanship warranties cover installation errors. Ask specifically what’s covered under their workmanship warranty and for how long. Quality contractors typically offer at least 5-10 years on workmanship. Get this in writing and understand exactly what would void the warranty.
5. How do you handle unexpected issues like rotten decking?
Once old shingles are removed, contractors sometimes discover underlying damage. Ask how they handle these situations, including how they determine costs for additional work. Reputable contractors will document the damage, discuss options with you, and provide clear pricing before proceeding.
6. What is your storm damage and emergency response process?
In Asheville, where severe storms can occur suddenly, knowing your contractor’s emergency response process is crucial. Ask about their typical response time for emergency calls and their process for securing your home quickly after storm damage occurs. Also ask how they assist with insurance claims following storm damage.
7. Will you provide a detailed written estimate?
A professional estimate should include specific details about materials, labor, timeline, payment terms, and cleanup procedures. It should also specify who is responsible for obtaining permits. Be wary of contractors who provide vague estimates or pressure you to sign immediately.
8. Who will supervise my project and be my point of contact?
Know exactly who will be overseeing your project and how to reach them. Will the owner be on-site, or a project manager? Will subcontractors be used? Understanding the chain of command ensures you know who to contact with questions or concerns during the project.
9. How will you protect my property during the project?
Roofing projects can be messy and potentially damaging to landscaping, siding, and windows. Ask specific questions about how they protect properties during work. Do they use tarps to catch debris? How do they ensure nails and materials don’t damage your property? What cleanup procedures do they follow?
10. What is your payment schedule?
Never pay the full amount upfront. Reputable contractors typically require a deposit (usually 10-30%) with the balance due upon completion or in scheduled payments for larger projects. Be cautious of contractors asking for large upfront payments or cash-only deals.
Ready for a Reliable Roofing Partner?
At Lane Roofing and Restoration, we welcome these questions and more. As local Asheville roofing contractors, we’re passionate about providing high-quality, affordable roofing solutions for our neighbors throughout Western North Carolina. Our hands-on, down-to-earth approach ensures transparent communication throughout your project.
Our team offers free estimates, a 10-year workmanship warranty, and decades of local experience handling Asheville’s unique roofing challenges. We’re fully licensed and insured, with emergency response times of 24-48 hours.
Contact us today at (828) 490-1830 to schedule a free roof inspection and experience the difference working with local roofing experts makes.