The SRE Roofing Guide: 5 Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask Before Hiring a Roofer

As a family man and someone who has been in the roofing business for years, I understand how overwhelming it can feel to hire a contractor. Your roof is one of the most significant investments in your home—it protects your family, your belongings, and the structure itself from the elements. Unfortunately, not all roofing contractors operate with the same level of integrity or professionalism. That’s why asking the right questions upfront can save you time, money, and a lot of stress down the road.

At SRE Roofing, our mission is to be the roofing partner you can trust. I’m here to walk you through the five most critical questions to ask any roofer before signing on the dotted line. Whether you're replacing your roof, repairing storm damage, or installing a roof for a new construction project, these questions will help you make an informed decision.

Question 1: Are You Licensed and Insured?

This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many homeowners skip this question. A legitimate roofing contractor must hold proper licensing and insurance to operate in Florida. Here’s why it’s crucial:

Licensing Ensures Competence: A licensed roofer has passed state-required exams, understands local building codes, and knows how to install and repair roofs safely and effectively.
Insurance Protects You: Roofing is risky work. If a contractor lacks liability insurance or workers’ compensation, you could be held financially responsible for accidents or damage.

What to Look For:

A copy of the contractor’s license.
Proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.

Why It Matters: At SRE Roofing, we’re fully licensed and insured. We’re happy to provide documentation to give you peace of mind. Think of it this way: Would you let an unlicensed driver take your family on a road trip? The same principle applies to your roof.

Question 2: What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?

A reputable roofing company stands by its work. Warranties provide a safety net, ensuring you won’t be left high and dry if something goes wrong. In Florida, where hurricanes and tropical storms are a constant threat, having a solid warranty is non-negotiable.

Material Warranty: Covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. For example, our metal roofs come with a 30-year warranty on the finish.
Labor Warranty: Covers workmanship-related issues. At SRE Roofing, we’re proud to offer a 10-year labor warranty—something almost unheard of in the industry.

Questions to Ask:

What does the warranty cover?
How long does the warranty last?
Is the warranty transferable if I sell my home?

Real-Life Example: One of our customers in Wellington was thrilled when a minor issue on their metal roof—caused by an installer’s oversight—was fixed under our labor warranty. No questions asked. That’s the SRE Roofing way.

Question 3: Who Will Be On-Site Managing My Project?

In many cases, the person you meet during the sales pitch isn’t the one managing your project. This can lead to miscommunication, mistakes, and frustration. Always ask who will be on-site overseeing the work and ensure they’re qualified.

Why It Matters: Having an experienced manager ensures that the project runs smoothly, safely, and on schedule.
SRE Roofing’s Approach: Either myself or my business partner, Mike, is present at every job site. We don’t just hand off your project to subcontractors—we’re there to make sure everything meets our high standards.

What to Expect:

Regular updates on progress, including photos.
A point of contact who can address questions or concerns immediately.

Question 4: Do You Provide a Detailed Estimate?

One of the biggest red flags in roofing is a vague or overly simplistic estimate. An honest contractor will provide a clear, detailed breakdown of costs, including:

Labor
Materials
Permits
Cleanup

The SRE Roofing Promise: Our estimates come with drone photos of your roof, so you can see exactly what needs to be done. Transparency isn’t just a buzzword for us—it’s how we operate.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

Unexplained fees or sudden price changes mid-project.
Contractors who pressure you into signing a contract on the spot.

Question 5: Can You Provide References or Show Past Work?

A good roofer has nothing to hide. Ask for references from past customers or examples of completed projects. Look for:

Consistent quality in workmanship.
Positive reviews highlighting communication and reliability.
Photos of roofs similar to the type you need.

At SRE Roofing Florida: We go a step further by providing before-and-after photos and drone footage of completed jobs. Our customers often share their own testimonials, which you can find on our website and social media pages.

Additional Tips for Hiring a Roofer

Research Online Reviews: Look for consistent feedback across platforms like Google, Yelp, and Angie’s List.
Verify Credentials: Check the contractor’s license number through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off—whether it’s a pushy sales tactic or unclear answers—walk away.

Closing Thoughts: Choosing SRE Roofing

As a father, a business owner, and someone who values integrity, I’ve built SRE Roofing to reflect my own values. We’re not just in the business of building roofs; we’re in the business of building trust.

By asking the right questions and partnering with a company that prioritizes honesty and quality, you can rest easy knowing your home is in good hands. When you choose SRE Roofing, you’re choosing a partner who will treat your property like our own.

Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s build a roof you’ll be proud of.

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