15 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer in Louisville

The Questions That Protect Your Investment

A new roof is one of the largest investments you'll make in your home. Yet many homeowners sign a contract after asking just one question: "How much?" Here are 15 questions that will help you find a contractor who deserves your business.

Before You Sign

1. "Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?"

Ask for copies of their general liability insurance, workers' compensation certificate, and any local licenses. A professional contractor will have these ready. Learn how to verify credentials →

2. "How long have you been in business in Louisville?"

Storm chasers set up temporary shops after major weather events, then disappear. A company with roots in Louisville will be here when you need warranty service five years from now.

3. "Can I see your Google reviews and BBB rating?"

Don't take their word for it. Look them up yourself. Pay attention to how they respond to negative reviews — that tells you more about their character than the positive ones.

4. "Who will actually be on my roof?"

Some companies subcontract everything. Ask whether they use their own crews or subcontractors. If subcontractors, ask if those subs are insured.

5. "What manufacturer certifications do you hold?"

Certifications like TAMKO Pro or GAF Master Elite aren't just logos — they unlock better warranties and prove the installer has been trained by the manufacturer.

About the Project

6. "Will you do a full tear-off or go over the existing shingles?"

Louisville code allows a maximum of two layers. But just because you can go over existing shingles doesn't mean you should. A tear-off lets us inspect the decking for rot and damage.

7. "What's included in your price?"

Get a line-item breakdown. Ask specifically about: underlayment, ice and water shield, new flashing, pipe boots, ridge vent, drip edge, and cleanup. Cheap quotes often exclude critical components.

8. "How do you handle rotten decking?"

Every contractor finds some rotten plywood during a tear-off. Ask what they charge per sheet for replacement and whether they'll inform you before proceeding.

9. "What material brands do you recommend and why?"

A knowledgeable contractor can explain the pros and cons of different shingle lines — not just push whatever's cheapest or whatever gives them the best margin.

10. "How long will the project take?"

Most Louisville roof replacements take 1–3 days depending on size, weather, and complexity. Get a realistic timeline and ask about their weather contingency plan.

After the Project

11. "What warranties do I get?"

You should receive two warranties: the manufacturer's material warranty and the contractor's workmanship warranty. Ask the length and coverage of both. Ask what voids each warranty.

12. "Will you handle the building permit?"

Louisville requires permits for roof replacements. Your contractor should pull the permit and schedule the inspection — not leave that to you.

13. "How do you handle cleanup?"

Ask specifically about nail cleanup (magnetic sweepers), debris removal, and landscaping protection. Your yard shouldn't look like a construction site when they leave.

14. "Can I see photos of recent projects?"

Before-and-after photos of recent Louisville projects show you the quality of their work and how they handle different roof types.

15. "Do you offer financing?"

If you're paying out of pocket, ask about payment plans. But be cautious — never pay more than a small deposit upfront. The bulk of payment should happen after the work is complete.

The Homestretch Difference

We welcome every one of these questions — and we answer them in writing before you sign anything. Our proposals include line-item pricing, a detailed scope of work, warranty information, and a project timeline.

Ready for straight answers? Call (502) 208-5432 or book online. See all Louisville service areas →