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How to Hire a Roofer: Estimates, Contracts and Red Flags

The FTC advises hiring only licensed and insured contractors, getting several written estimates, and never paying the full amount up front. If you sign the contract at home, you usually have three business days to cancel.

Check the contractor

  • Confirm the license with your state or county and ask for proof of insurance
  • Ask people you trust for recommendations
  • Search the company name with words like scam, review or complaint
  • Ask your local home builders association and consumer protection office about complaints
[1]

Compare written estimates

Get several written estimates. Don't automatically pick the lowest bid, and if the prices are far apart, ask why. [1]

What the contract should include

  • The contractor's name, address, phone number and license number
  • Estimated start and completion dates
  • Every promise about the scope of work, labor and materials
  • A written statement of your right to cancel
  • No blank spaces

Ask for a written contract even if your state does not require one. [1]

How to pay

Don't pay the whole amount up front. Some states limit the size of a down payment. Make the final payment only when the work is done and you are satisfied with it. [1]

Your right to cancel

If you signed the contract in your home or anywhere other than the seller's permanent place of business, you have three business days to cancel. [1]

Warning signs

  • They knock on your door because they are "in the area"
  • They have materials left over from another job
  • They push you to decide right away
  • They want cash only or full payment up front
  • They ask you to get the building permits
  • They steer you to a lender they know
[1]

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Questions

How many roofing estimates should I get?

The FTC recommends getting several written estimates and asking why if prices differ a lot.

Should I pay a roofer up front?

Not the full amount. The FTC says to pay the final amount only when the work is finished and you are satisfied.

Can I cancel a roofing contract?

If you signed it at home or away from the seller's permanent place of business, you have three business days to cancel.

Sources

  1. How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam, Federal Trade Commission

This guide is general information, not professional advice. It summarizes the sources above, which were last checked on October 22, 2026. Talk to a licensed contractor about your own situation.

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