How to Choose a Roofing Contractor: Tips for Homeowners
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your property, protecting you and your family from the elements. When it’s time for repairs or a roof replacement, knowing how to choose a roofing contractor is critical.
The right roofing contractor ensures the roof system is installed correctly, protects your investment, and gives you peace of mind. Hiring the wrong roofing company, however, can lead to poor workmanship, hidden fees, and costly repairs.
In New Mexico, most homeowners know that our roofs face unique challenges. Intense sun, high winds, sudden hail, and seasonal storms all put stress on your roof system.
An experienced local contractor understands these risks and knows how to build a new roof that lasts. This guide will walk you through the most important factors in choosing a roofing contractor, so you can make a confident hiring decision that’s in your best interest.
Why Licensing and Insurance Coverage Matter When Choosing a Roofing Contractor
Before comparing estimates, the first step in choosing a roofing contractor is to verify credentials. In New Mexico, roofers must be licensed through the Construction Industries Division (CID). Licensing shows that a contractor understands building codes and local codes, and can legally work on your roof deck and overall roof system.
Insurance is equally important. A professional roofer or roofing company should carry:
- General liability insurance: Protects your property if there’s accidental damage during the project. In fact, general liability insurance protects both the homeowner and the company from major financial loss.
- Workers’ compensation insurance: Sometimes called workers’ compensation, it covers workers if they’re injured on the job. Without it, you could be financially responsible.
Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured potential roofing contractor is a major risk. Without insurance coverage, homeowners may be left paying out of pocket. Always ask for proof before signing a written contract.
Local Experience with New Mexico Roofs Matters
Another tip on how to choose a roofing contractor is to look for local experience. New Mexico’s weather conditions are tough on roofing materials. The relentless sun fades shingles, high winds can lift them, and hailstorms cause roof damage that sometimes requires a full roof replacement.
A professional contractor with local expertise knows which roofing materials work best, how to secure a shingle roof against sudden storms, and how to follow local codes to get the right building permit. They also understand the roofing industry in the region and can deliver high-quality roofing services that last.
By contrast, “storm chasers” are roofing companies that travel from state to state after major hail or wind events. They show up in neighborhoods right after a storm, offering fast roof repairs or replacements. These potential roofers often cut corners, use lower-quality roofing materials, and skip proper installation steps.
Since they are not local, they usually fail to follow local codes or pull the correct building permits. Once they leave town, homeowners are left without support for warranty claims or follow-up repairs.
Experienced professional contractors who have worked in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and surrounding New Mexico communities understand what most homeowners need to protect their homes. Every installation and repair should be completed with the highest safety and quality standards to ensure the roof system lasts for years.
What Warranties and Quality Standards a Roofing Company Should Offer
When choosing a roofing contractor, ask about warranties. A good contractor should stand behind both their contractor’s work and the materials used.
- Workmanship warranty: Covers errors from improper installation, ensuring the contractor fixes the issue at no cost.
- Manufacturer’s warranty: Protects against defects in shingles or other materials.
At East Mountain Roofing, we offer a 10-year workmanship warranty and use top manufacturers that back their products for up to 30 years. Whether it’s small repairs or a roof replaced in full, having warranties ensures your homeowner investment is covered.
Checking Reviews, References, and Reputation of a Roofer
If you’re wondering how to choose a roofing contractor with confidence, check their reputation. Start by asking the roofing company to provide references from past customers. Speaking directly to previous clients helps you determine how reliable the contractor’s work really is.
Then check online reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). A reputable roofer will have positive reviews that mention professionalism, communication, and high-quality roofing services.
Watch out for red flags such as:
- Unwillingness to provide references.
- Complaints on the business bureau left unresolved.
- High-pressure sales tactics.
- Vague answers about costs, contracts, or services.
A right roofer with strong references and reviews makes the hiring decision much easier.
Comparing Estimates and Timelines from Multiple Roofing Contractors
Another important step in choosing a roofing contractor is comparing multiple roofing contractors before making a decision. Getting at least three estimates helps homeowners understand costs and prevent surprises.
Be careful of bids that seem too good to be true. They may reflect poor materials, skipped steps like the drip edge, or a lack of proper installation.
A professional roofing contractor should always:
- Inspect your existing roof before quoting.
- Give you all the information in a detailed written contract.
- Explain whether you need small repairs, a roof replaced, or a full roof replacement.
- Provide a realistic timeline for completing the project.
By comparing potential contractors, you can find the right contractor who will protect your homeowner investment and complete the job safely.
The Importance of Proper Installation and Safety
When learning how to choose a roofing contractor, remember that proper installation is key. Even the best roofing materials won’t last if they aren’t installed correctly. A professional roofer ensures every detail is completed to standard, from the roof deck to the final shingle.
Safety also matters. A reliable roofing company follows safety guidelines to protect both their workers and your property during every project.
East Mountain Roofing: A Local Roofing Company You Can Trust
When you’re ready to hire a roofing contractor, East Mountain Roofing is here to help. We are licensed, insured, and experienced in roof repairs, roof replacements, and complete installations.
Whether you need a new roof, your existing roof replaced, or small repairs, our professional contractors provide high-quality roofing services that are always installed correctly. We follow local codes, pull the right building permits, and make safety a priority on every job.
With warranties, transparent pricing, and no hidden fees, we’ve earned a reputation as a reputable roofer who puts the homeowner’s best interest first.
Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Taking the time to learn how to choose a roofing contractor ensures your roof system is installed correctly and your property is protected.
By prioritizing licensing, liability insurance, local experience, warranties, and reviews, you’ll be able to hire the right roofer who delivers lasting results.
Ready to get started? Contact East Mountain Roofing today at (505) 264-7081 to schedule your free, no-obligation inspection and find out whether your roof needs repairs, small repairs, or a full roof replacement.