A To-Do List Before Hiring Roofers After Your Claim Is Approved
Your Roadmap to a Successful Roof Replacement
Getting your roof insurance claim approved is a significant victory. However, the most critical step remains: selecting the right roofing contractor. The company you choose determines the quality, durability, and longevity of your new roof. Rushing this decision can lead to poor workmanship, voided warranties, and future complications. A To-Do List Before Hiring Roofers After Your Claim Is Approved.
This comprehensive checklist guides you through essential steps to take after your claim is approved but before signing any contract with a roofing contractor.
Get Your Instant Roof Estimate
A To-Do List Before Hiring Roofers After Your Claim Is Approved. Use our roofing calculator to get an instant estimate for your project:
Your Pre-Hiring Roofing Contractor Checklist
1. Understand Your Scope of Work & Insurance Documents
Before contacting contractors, thoroughly review your insurance claim documents. Locate the "Scope of Work" or "Statement of Loss." This document outlines exactly what your insurance company has agreed to cover (materials, labor, tear-off, etc.). A reputable roofing contractor will use this as the blueprint for your project.
2. Seek Multiple, Local Contractors
Don't settle for the first roofer you find. Obtain written estimates from at least three established, local roofing companies. Local roofers understand regional weather challenges, building codes, and have a community reputation to uphold.
3. Verify Credentials Rigorously
This step is non-negotiable. Ensure every contractor you consider has:
- Proper Business Registration: In states like Texas without specific roofing licenses, verify business registration. Check Better Business Bureau accreditation as an indicator of legitimate business status.
- Manufacturer Certification: Hire only Manufacturer Certified Contractors who provide enhanced warranties. Look for GAF Master Elite or Owens Corning Platinum contractors who have completed rigorous training.
- Adequate Insurance: Contractors must carry both Workers' Compensation and General Liability Insurance. Request their Certificate of Insurance (COI) and verify its active status with the provider to protect yourself from liability.
4. Check Their Reputation Thoroughly
Go beyond basic online searches:
- Read Reviews: Check Google Business Profile, BBB, and third-party sites like RCAT. Look for consistent feedback patterns.
- Request References: Confident roofers provide recent local customer references. Contact several to ask about their experience, communication, and project cleanup.
5. Review Manufacturer Certifications
Top shingle manufacturers offer elite certification programs. Contractors with "Master Elite" or "Platinum" status have completed rigorous training and often provide enhanced, transferable warranties covering both materials and workmanship.
6. Get Everything in Writing
Your estimate should be a formal, itemized proposal that mirrors your insurance Scope of Work and includes:
- Complete material descriptions (brand, type, color of shingles, underlayment)
- Detailed work outline
- Start and completion dates
- Clear payment schedule
- Cleanup and debris removal process
- Warranty information for both materials and labor
Essential Questions to Ask Before Signing
With accurate estimates and verified credentials, the final step is a candid conversation. Use these key questions before signing any contract:
1. "Are you experienced with insurance claims?"
Insurance claim experience is crucial. Contractors should understand supplements (requesting additional funds for hidden damage) and claim paperwork.
2. "Who will be my on-site contact?"
Identify your daily point of contact—project manager, owner, or foreman—to prevent communication breakdowns.
3. "What is your project timeline?"
Get specific start/completion dates, daily schedules, and inclement weather plans.
4. "What safety protocols do you follow?"
Professional companies have clear plans for fall protection, worksite security, and property protection.
5. "How will you protect my property?"
Ask about tarps, plywood for driveways, dumpster placement, and debris management.
6. "What warranties do you offer?"
Understand the difference between manufacturer material warranties and contractor workmanship warranties. Get length, coverage, and transferability in writing.
7. "What is the payment schedule?"
Avoid contractors demanding full payment upfront. Standard schedules include a material deposit, progress payments, and final payment after satisfactory completion.
8. "Do you handle permits?"
Reputable roofers pull necessary permits, ensuring work meets local building codes and receives proper inspections.
Customer Reviews & Testimonials
See what our customers say about their experience with JC&C Roofing Company:
Contact JC&C Roofing Company
Get Your Free Roofing Consultation
Your roof is a crucial investment in your home. Following this checklist helps identify professional, trustworthy roofers who deliver quality protection for decades.
Phone: (713) ROOFING
Contact Page: Visit Our Contact Form
Our Credentials:
Roof Financing Available
Explore financing options through our Wells Fargo partnership:
Apply for Roof FinancingQuick Contact Form
Get your free estimate
We can provide you with a free estimate for our roofing services with just a few details about your home.