Before you jump into a big roofing project, there are a few crucial questions you should ask your roofing contractor before you sign a contract. Oftentimes, homeowners don’t think to ask questions until it’s too late. Unexpected costs, delays, or quality issues can quickly turn a simple project into a major headache. Taking the time to ask the right questions up front can save you stress, money, and frustration.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Pennsylvania?
This should be the first and most important question you ask any roofing contractor. A trustworthy company will have up-to-date licensing and full insurance coverage and should be more than willing to show you proof. You’ll want to see general liability insurance, workers’ compensation coverage, and proper state licensing to protect yourself from potential liability if someone is injured or if property damage occurs. In Hanover and York County, permits are often required, and only licensed contractors can legally pull them. At Peak Exteriors, we are fully licensed and insured in Pennsylvania and Maryland, so you can feel confident that your project is handled safely, legally, and professionally.
2. Do You Have Local References and Experience?
Choosing a roofing contractor with local experience is one of the smartest decisions a homeowner can make. A roofer who has worked extensively in the Hanover area will know the weather patterns, building codes, and common roofing issues unique to South Central Pennsylvania. Before making your decision, look for genuine customer reviews and before-and-after photos, and drive by a few completed projects to see the quality of work for yourself. At Peak Exteriors, we take pride in serving our neighbors in Hanover and the surrounding areas. We’re happy to provide references from recent local customers and show you examples of our work so you can feel confident in your choice from day one.
3. Will You Provide a Detailed Written Estimate and Scope of Work?
Before signing any contract, ensure your roofing contractor provides a precise, written estimate of exactly what will be done. A professional, trustworthy contractor will give you the work breakdown and ensure you understand what’s included, what’s not, and what it will cost. If a contractor only gives you a verbal estimate or scribbles a vague quote on the back of a business card, that’s a major red flag. At Peak Exteriors, we provide detailed written estimates and walk-throughs with every proposal.
4. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?
Roofing is a major investment, and you deserve the peace of mind that comes with strong warranty protection. Before signing a contract, ask your contractor what warranties are included and ensure you understand exactly what they cover. The two main types of warranties to look out for are manufacturers’ warranties and workmanship warranties. The manufacturer’s warranty covers the roofing materials themselves and protects you against defects in the product. The contractor provides the workmanship warranty and covers errors made during installation. One of the key benefits of hiring a local contractor like Peak Exteriors is that we stand behind our work and community. National or out-of-town companies may be hard to reach if problems arise. We’re right here in Hanover and will be here long after the job is done.
5. Who Will Be Onsite Managing the Job?
Knowing who will show up at your home once the project begins is essential. Some roofing companies have in-house crews, while others rely heavily on subcontractors. Neither is necessarily wrong, but how well the job is managed and how the communication flows matter. At Peak Exteriors, we believe in keeping homeowners informed and involved every step of the way. We’ll communicate who’s managing your project and how to reach us if you need anything.
If you’re looking for a roofing contractor in Hanover, PA, or the surrounding areas, call Peak Exteriors for a FREE inspection!