UPDATED FOR 2025
What Makes a Better Roofing Company? 12 Things to Look For In a Roofing Contractor
Learn the 12 key factors that separate elite roofing contractors from average ones. Discover what to look for in warranties, certifications, experience, and more when choosing a Long Island roofer.
Key Takeaways:
- Industry-leading warranties separate elite contractors from average ones – Look for 25-year labor warranties versus the 2-10 year industry standard
- Elite manufacturer certifications (GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster) indicate only the top 1-2% of contractors – These require rigorous standards that most companies can’t meet
- Decades of local experience matter more than low prices – Companies with 30+ years in business understand regional weather patterns and building codes
- Your own employees vs. subcontractors dramatically affects quality control – Elite contractors maintain trained, certified teams rather than hiring day laborers
- Proper licensing and insurance are non-negotiable – Many contractors operate illegally, putting homeowners at serious financial risk
- Written contracts and transparent pricing protect you – Reputable contractors provide detailed documentation, not vague estimates
- Red flags like high-pressure tactics and cash-only payments indicate scammers – Storm chasers and fly-by-night operators cost homeowners thousands
Choosing a roofing contractor might seem straightforward—after all, they all promise quality work, fair prices, and great service.
But the reality is that not all roofing companies operate on the same level. Some cut corners, use inferior materials, disappear after collecting deposits, or provide warranties that aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on.
The difference between an exceptional roofing contractor and an average one can mean the difference between a roof that protects your house for decades and one that requires costly repairs within just a few years.
For Long Island homeowners, where harsh winters, summer storms, and coastal weather constantly challenge your roof’s integrity, this choice becomes even more critical. A contractor’s industry experience is crucial for ensuring your house receives long-term protection and value.
So what should you look for? What separates truly elite contractors like County Roofing Systems from the rest?
Here are the 12 essential factors that distinguish the best roofing companies from the average ones.
1. Warranty Length: Industry-Leading vs. Industry Standard
Perhaps nothing reveals more about a contractor’s confidence in their work than the warranty they offer. Unfortunately, this is where many homeowners get burned.
What Average Roofing Companies Offer:
Most roofing contractors in the industry provide workmanship warranties lasting between 2 to 10 years, with the industry average sitting around 5-10 years. While this might sound adequate, consider that the average asphalt shingle roof should last 25-30 years. That means most contractors stop standing behind their work well before your roof reaches even half its expected lifespan.
Even worse, many contractor warranties only cover materials, leaving you responsible for labor costs if problems arise. When you’re paying thousands for installation, those labor costs can quickly add up to another significant expense.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Offer:
County Roofing Systems provides a 25-year labor warranty—nearly triple the industry average and five times longer than what many contractors offer. This extended warranty demonstrates their absolute confidence in their workmanship and the quality of their installation practices. Elite contractors also provide additional information about warranty coverage, terms, and conditions to ensure transparency and help homeowners make informed decisions.
But it gets even better. Their elite manufacturer certifications also qualify customers for 50-year material warranties from manufacturers like GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. These extended material warranties are only available through certified contractors who meet rigorous installation standards.
Why This Matters:
A contractor willing to guarantee their work for 25 years isn’t cutting corners. They’re using proper installation techniques, quality materials, and trained professionals who know what they’re doing. If a company only offers a 2-5 year warranty, ask yourself: what do they know about their work that makes them unwilling to stand behind it for longer?
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2. Manufacturer Certifications: The Elite 1-2% vs. Everyone Else
Any roofing company can buy materials from major manufacturers. But earning elite certifications? That’s a completely different story.
What Average Roofing Companies Have:
Most roofing contractors are general installers without any special certifications. They can purchase materials from various manufacturers, but they haven’t demonstrated the commitment, training, or consistent quality standards required for elite status. This means they don’t qualify for enhanced warranties, priority support, or access to the manufacturers’ best products.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Have:
County Roofing Systems holds three of the most prestigious certifications in the roofing industry:
GAF Master Elite Contractor – Fewer than 3% of roofing contractors nationwide achieve this status
CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster – Only the top 1% of contractors in Nassau County earn this certification
Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor – An elite designation requiring proven excellence in installation
Companies featured on industry best-of lists typically hold these elite certifications, which demonstrates their comprehensive capabilities and sets them apart from standard contractors.
These aren’t participation trophies. Each certification requires:
Rigorous training and ongoing education
Proven track record of quality installations
Strong financial standing and business practices
Excellent customer satisfaction ratings
Proper licensing and insurance
Commitment to manufacturer installation standards
Why This Matters:
Manufacturer certifications exist for one reason: to identify the contractors who consistently deliver superior results. These companies don’t just meet minimum standards—they exceed them year after year. When you hire a GAF Master Elite or CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster contractor, you’re hiring from the top 1-3% of the entire industry.
3. Experience and Longevity: 35+ Years vs. Fly-by-Night Operations
In the roofing industry, longevity tells a story that marketing materials can’t fake.
What Average Roofing Companies Have:
Many roofing contractors are relatively new to the business, with only a few years of operation. Some are legitimate startups building their reputation, but many others are “storm chasers”—contractors who appear after major weather events, take deposits, do shoddy work, and disappear before problems surface.
Other companies operate for a few years, rack up complaints, then close and reopen under a new name to escape their bad reputation. This is alarmingly common in the home improvement industry.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Have:
County Roofing Systems was founded in 1988 and has been serving Long Island continuously for over 35 years. Three and a half decades of operation means:
They’ve survived multiple economic downturns
They’ve built a reputation worth protecting
They understand Long Island’s unique climate challenges
They’ve weathered countless storms and know how to build roofs that last
They’ve refined their processes over thousands of installations
They’re not going anywhere—they’ll be here if you need them in 10, 15, or 20 years
Why This Matters:
A company that’s been in business for 35+ years has too much to lose to cut corners or engage in deceptive practices. They’ve built a brand, a reputation, and relationships throughout the community. They’re answerable to decades of past customers. That’s the kind of accountability you want protecting your biggest investment.
4. Local Knowledge: Long Island Natives vs. Out-of-Town Contractors
Roofing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different climates require different approaches, materials, and installation techniques.
What Average Roofing Companies Lack:
Many contractors—especially storm chasers—come from out of state or other regions with completely different weather patterns. They don’t understand Long Island’s unique combination of:
Harsh nor’easters with high winds and heavy snow
Summer humidity and heat
Coastal salt air exposure (particularly on the South Shore and in Queens)
Hurricane threats and storm surge concerns
Rapid freeze-thaw cycles that damage improperly installed roofs
These contractors use generic installation methods that might work in their home state but fail under Long Island’s demanding conditions.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Have:
County Roofing Systems’ team members are Long Island natives who’ve spent their entire careers understanding this region’s weather challenges. They know:
Which underlayment works best for coastal exposure
How to properly ventilate attics in humid Long Island summers
Which shingle types withstand winter ice dams
Local building codes in Nassau County, Suffolk County, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, and Westchester County
The specific challenges different neighborhoods face (coastal vs. inland, older homes vs. new construction)
Why This Matters:
Your roof needs to survive Long Island winters, not Florida summers or Arizona heat. A contractor who understands your local climate will choose the right materials, use appropriate installation techniques, and anticipate problems before they occur.
That local knowledge translates directly into a longer-lasting, better-performing roof. Comparing the local knowledge of other roofing companies in your area can help ensure you choose a contractor who truly understands your region’s unique challenges.
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5. Licensing and Insurance: Fully Compliant vs. Operating Illegally
This might seem basic, but you’d be shocked how many roofing contractors operate without proper credentials.
What Average (or Unscrupulous) Roofing Companies Do:
Many contractors either:
Lack proper state and local licenses entirely
Let their licenses expire and keep working
Carry minimal or no insurance
Provide fake insurance certificates
Use “general liability” insurance that doesn’t actually cover roofing work
Working with an unlicensed or uninsured contractor puts YOU at financial risk. If someone gets hurt on your property, if your home is damaged during installation, or if the work doesn’t meet code and your municipality fines you—you’re liable, not them.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Have:
County Roofing Systems maintains:
Full licensing to work throughout New York, including Nassau County, Suffolk County, all five NYC boroughs, and Westchester County
Comprehensive liability insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance for all employees
Proper permits for every job
Compliance with all local building codes and regulations
They can provide proof of licensing and insurance before work begins, and they obtain all necessary permits. No shortcuts, no exceptions.
Why This Matters:
Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured contractor is gambling with your home and your financial security. One accident, one code violation, one dispute, and you’re personally liable for potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars. Legitimate contractors carry proper insurance and licensing precisely to protect you from these risks.
6. Own Employees vs. Subcontractors
How a roofing company staffs its projects reveals everything about quality control and accountability.
What Average Roofing Companies Do:
Many roofing contractors don’t actually employ their own installation crews. Instead, they act as middlemen, hiring subcontractors—often day laborers or the cheapest crews they can find—for each job.
This subcontracting model creates serious problems:
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No consistent quality standards
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No ongoing training or certification
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No real accountability if problems arise
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Contractors have little control over workmanship
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Different crews on different jobs means inconsistent results
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Communication breakdowns between homeowner, contractor, and installer
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Do:
County Roofing Systems employs their own trained, certified installation crews. Every person working on your roof is a County Roofing Systems employee who has undergone:
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Extensive training in proper installation techniques
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Manufacturer certification courses
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Ongoing safety training
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Regular performance reviews
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Background checks
These aren’t temporary workers or day laborers—they’re career professionals who take pride in their work because they’re part of the County Roofing Systems team.
Why This Matters:
Quality control requires direct supervision and accountability. When a company uses its own employees, those workers represent the company’s reputation with every shingle they install.
They’re trained to meet the company’s standards, not just get the job done as quickly and cheaply as possible. This difference shows up in every aspect of the installation, from proper flashing to adequate ventilation to thorough cleanup.
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7. Material Quality: Premium Products vs. Builder-Grade Shortcuts
Not all roofing materials are created equal, and some contractors bet you won’t know the difference.
What Average Roofing Companies Do:
To offer lower prices and increase profit margins, many contractors:
Use builder-grade materials instead of premium options
Mix manufacturers to save money (which voids enhanced warranties)
Substitute cheaper underlayment or skip ice and water shield
Use inadequate ventilation systems
Cut corners on flashing and sealants
Install fewer fasteners than manufacturer specifications require
These shortcuts aren’t immediately visible—your roof looks fine from the ground. But within a few years, problems emerge: premature shingle failure, leaks, ice dams, inadequate ventilation causing mold, and dramatically shortened roof lifespan.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Do:
County Roofing Systems exclusively uses premium materials from the industry’s leading manufacturers:
GAF shingles and roofing systems
CertainTeed premium architectural shingles
Owens Corning duration and designer shingles
Grace Ice and Water Shield for superior leak protection
Firestone residential flat roofing systems
They never substitute builder-grade materials or cut corners on critical components. When they quote GAF Timberline HDZ shingles, that’s exactly what you get—not a cheaper alternative they swapped in to increase margins.
Why This Matters:
Your roof is only as good as the materials used to build it. Premium materials cost more upfront but last significantly longer, perform better in extreme weather, and come with superior warranties. A contractor using top-tier materials is investing in your roof’s long-term performance, not just trying to underbid competitors.
8. Comprehensive Services: Full-Service vs. Limited Capabilities
Roofing projects often involve more than just replacing shingles.
What Average Roofing Companies Offer:
Many contractors specialize in basic shingle replacement and little else. If your project requires:
Structural repairs to decking or framing
Chimney work or flashing repairs
Complex ventilation systems
Gutter installation or replacement
Skylight installation
Flat roof systems
…they either can’t help you or subcontract those services to others, adding coordination headaches and potential quality issues.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Offer:
County Roofing Systems provides comprehensive exterior services under one roof:
Complete roof replacement and new installations
Residential and commercial roofing
Flat roofing systems
Roof repair, including emergency roof repair services for storm or leak damage
Chimney repair and maintenance
Seamless gutter installation
Siding installation (James Hardie, CertainTeed Cedar Impressions)
Window replacement (Marvin, Pella)
Dormers, extensions, and porticos
Structural framing work
This means one contractor, one warranty, one point of accountability for your entire project. No coordination headaches with multiple companies or finger-pointing if problems arise.
Why This Matters:
Roofing projects rarely exist in isolation. Your fascia might need replacing, your gutters are at end-of-life, or your aging chimney flashing is contributing to leaks. A full-service contractor can address everything at once, ensuring all components work together as a complete system rather than a patchwork of separate fixes.
9. Transparent Pricing and Written Contracts vs. Verbal Agreements
How a contractor handles estimates and contracts tells you everything about their business practices.
What Average (or Dishonest) Roofing Companies Do:
Warning signs include:
Vague, verbal estimates without detailed breakdowns
Refusing to provide written contracts
Quotes that are 30-50% lower than competitors
Demanding 50% or more as down payment
Changing prices after work begins
Using high-pressure tactics to sign immediately
Offering “today only” discounts to force quick decisions
These practices are huge red flags. Contractors using these tactics either plan to cut corners, substitute materials, or simply take your money and disappear.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Do:
County Roofing Systems provides:
Detailed written estimates breaking down all costs
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Reasonable down payments (typically 15-20% or less)
Comprehensive written contracts outlining scope, timeline, and terms
Time to review and compare quotes without pressure
Clear payment schedules tied to project milestones
Financing options for qualified homeowners (0% down, 0% interest programs available)
They never pressure you to sign on the spot or claim a discount expires today. They want you to make an informed decision, not a rushed one.
Why This Matters:
A written contract protects both parties and ensures everyone understands expectations, timeline, and costs. Contractors who avoid written agreements or pressure immediate decisions are hiding something. Legitimate companies want you to compare quotes, verify their credentials, and make the choice that’s right for you.
10. Communication and Responsiveness: Professional vs. Unreliable
How a contractor communicates during the sales process predicts how they’ll communicate during your project.
What Average Roofing Companies Do:
Many contractors struggle with basic communication:
Don’t show up for scheduled estimates
Take days or weeks to return calls
Go silent after receiving deposit
Fail to update you on project status
Don’t answer questions clearly
Disappear when problems arise
Poor communication is one of the most common complaints about roofing contractors and a major source of homeowner stress.
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Do:
County Roofing Systems maintains professional communication throughout your project:
Punctual for appointments
Responsive to calls and emails
Regular project updates
Clear answers to your questions
Owner Keith Schmied personally oversees projects
Proactive problem-solving if issues arise
Available after project completion for any concerns
Why This Matters:
Your roof replacement is a major investment and home disruption. You deserve to know what’s happening, when work will occur, and who to contact with questions. Professional communication reduces stress, prevents misunderstandings, and ensures your project stays on track.
11. References and Reputation: Proven Track Record vs. Unknown Quantity
In the internet age, a contractor’s reputation is readily available—if they have one worth finding.
What Average (or Questionable) Roofing Companies Have:
Warning signs of contractors to avoid:
No online reviews or presence
Overwhelmingly negative reviews mentioning similar issues repeatedly
No verifiable references from past customers
No physical business address or website
New company with no track record
Multiple complaints with Better Business Bureau
Can’t provide examples of recent, local projects
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Have:
County Roofing Systems has built an exceptional reputation through:
Hundreds of positive reviews across multiple platforms
Verifiable references from satisfied Long Island homeowners
Established physical location in Melville, NY
Professional website showcasing completed projects
A+ rating with Better Business Bureau
35+ years of satisfied customers throughout Long Island
Strong reputation in Nassau County, Suffolk County, and all NYC boroughs
They encourage you to check references, read reviews, and verify their credentials. They have nothing to hide because their reputation speaks for itself.
Why This Matters:
Online reviews and references give you insight into real customer experiences. Patterns matter: if multiple customers mention the same problems (poor communication, surprise charges, shoddy work), that’s a serious red flag. Conversely, consistently positive reviews about quality work, fair pricing, and professional service indicate a contractor worth considering.
12. Post-Installation Support and Warranty Service
Your relationship with your roofing contractor doesn’t end when the crew leaves your driveway.
What Average Roofing Companies Do:
Many contractors make warranty claims difficult or impossible:
Unreachable after project completion
Make excuses to avoid warranty obligations
Demand additional payment for warranty work
Go out of business, making warranties worthless
Require unrealistic maintenance schedules to keep warranties valid
Take weeks or months to respond to warranty claims
What Elite Contractors Like County Roofing Systems Do:
County Roofing Systems stands behind their work long after installation:
Responsive to any post-installation concerns
Honor their 25-year labor warranty without hassle
Available for questions or issues years after installation
Proactive about addressing problems quickly
Same team that installed your roof handles warranty work
Clear warranty terms without hidden conditions
Their 35+ year history proves they’ll be around to honor their commitments, not disappeared the moment a warranty claim arises.
Why This Matters:
A warranty is only as good as the company behind it. Even the best roof might need a minor adjustment or repair over its lifetime. A contractor that stands behind their work makes those situations stress-free. A contractor that avoids warranty obligations makes a stressful situation even worse.
Red Flags That Should Send You Running
Beyond the factors that separate good contractors from great ones, there are absolute deal-breakers that should immediately disqualify a contractor from consideration:
Storm Chasers
After major storms, out-of-state contractors flood affected areas offering “quick fixes” and “insurance claim assistance.” They pressure homeowners to sign contracts immediately, often:
Claiming severe damage you can’t see
Offering to waive insurance deductibles (illegal in many states)
Requesting large upfront payments
Disappearing after collecting deposits
What to do: Never hire a contractor who shows up uninvited after storms. Get multiple local estimates from established companies.
No License or Insurance
Some contractors operate entirely illegally, with no licenses, no insurance, and no permits.
What to do: Always verify licensing with your local municipality and require proof of insurance. Never trust their word alone—call the insurance company directly to confirm active coverage.
Cash-Only Payments
Contractors demanding cash payments are usually:
Avoiding taxes
Hiding income from business failures or lawsuits
Planning to disappear with your money
Operating illegally
What to do: Never pay cash. Use checks, credit cards, or financing programs that create paper trails and offer consumer protections.
High-Pressure Tactics
Legitimate contractors don’t need to pressure you. If they’re claiming:
“This price is only good today”
“I’m in your neighborhood and can start tomorrow”
“Sign now or lose this special offer”
“You’re crazy to pass this up”
What to do: Walk away immediately. Good contractors give you time to make informed decisions.
Suspiciously Low Bids
If one estimate is 30-50% lower than competitors, something’s wrong. The contractor is either:
Planning to use inferior materials
Cutting critical corners
Will increase prices mid-project
Doesn’t include necessary work in the bid
What to do: If a bid seems too good to be true, it probably is. Get at least three estimates and be wary of outliers in either direction.
The County Roofing Systems Difference
Throughout this article, we’ve used County Roofing Systems as the example of what homeowners should look for in an elite roofing contractor. That’s not by accident—they represent the gold standard in the Long Island roofing industry.
When you choose County Roofing Systems, you’re getting:
✓ 25-year labor warranty and 50-year material warranties (vs. the 5-10 year industry average)
✓ Triple elite certifications: GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, Owens Corning Platinum Preferred
✓ 35+ years of continuous service to Long Island homeowners since 1988
✓ Long Island natives who understand regional weather challenges and building codes
✓ Fully licensed and insured to work throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County, all five NYC boroughs, and Westchester County
✓ Own trained employees—never subcontractors
✓ Premium materials only—GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning
✓ Comprehensive services—roofing, siding, windows, gutters, dormers, and more
✓ Transparent pricing with written contracts and flexible financing
✓ Owner Keith Schmied personally oversees projects
✓ Proven reputation with hundreds of five-star reviews
This is what the best looks like. This is what you should demand when entrusting someone with your home’s protection.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Your roof is too important to leave to chance or price shopping alone. The cheapest bid often becomes the most expensive mistake you can make.
When evaluating roofing contractors, ask yourself:
Do they have the credentials to prove they’re among the best in the industry?
Will they still be in business in 10, 15, or 20 years when I might need them?
Do they stand behind their work with industry-leading warranties?
Do they use their own trained employees or hire subcontractors?
Can I verify their reputation through independent reviews and references?
The difference between an average contractor and an elite one isn’t just marketing—it’s measurable in warranty length, certification requirements, materials quality, and decades of proven results.
For Long Island homeowners, County Roofing Systems represents the standard all roofing contractors should meet. Their 35-year track record, elite certifications, and unwavering commitment to quality aren’t just talking points—they’re verifiable facts that set them apart from the competition.
Don’t settle for average. Your home deserves better.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a roofing contractor’s warranty last?
Elite contractors typically offer 10-25 year labor warranties, with the best companies like County Roofing Systems providing 25-year coverage. The industry average is only 5-10 years, which isn’t sufficient considering roofs should last 25-30 years. Avoid contractors offering warranties shorter than 10 years.
What certifications should I look for in a roofing contractor?
The most prestigious certifications include GAF Master Elite (top 3% nationally), CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster (top 1% in many areas), and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred. These certifications require rigorous standards and ongoing training that most contractors can’t meet. County Roofing Systems holds all three elite certifications.
Should I choose the lowest estimate for my roof replacement?
No. Estimates that are 30-50% lower than competitors usually indicate cut corners, inferior materials, or scams. Quality roofing work has a fairly consistent price range based on materials and labor. Extremely low bids often lead to surprise costs, shoddy work, or contractors who disappear mid-project.
How important is local experience when choosing a roofer?
Local experience is critical. Different climates require different materials, installation techniques, and understanding of regional challenges. A contractor with decades of experience in your area—like County Roofing Systems’ 35+ years on Long Island—understands your local weather patterns, building codes, and climate-specific challenges better than out-of-state contractors or storm chasers.
What’s the difference between manufacturer warranties and workmanship warranties?
Manufacturer warranties (typically 25-50 years) cover defects in materials, while workmanship warranties (ideally 10-25 years) cover installation errors. You need both. Premium contractors like County Roofing Systems offer 50-year material warranties through their elite manufacturer certifications plus an industry-leading 25-year labor warranty on their installation work.
Why do some roofing contractors use subcontractors instead of their own employees?
Contractors use subcontractors to reduce overhead costs and avoid responsibility for quality control. This almost always compromises consistency and workmanship. Elite contractors like County Roofing Systems use only their own trained, certified employees to ensure consistent quality standards on every project.
How can I verify a roofing contractor’s license and insurance?
Request copies of their license and insurance certificates, then verify them independently. For licenses, check with your local building department or state licensing board. For insurance, call the insurance company directly—don’t just accept a certificate, as these can be faked. Legitimate contractors like County Roofing Systems provide verification without hesitation.
What should be included in a roofing contract?
A proper contract should include detailed scope of work, specific materials to be used (brand and model), project timeline, payment schedule, warranty information, permit details, cleanup responsibilities, and what happens if issues arise. Never accept verbal agreements or vague contracts that leave room for disputes or surprise charges.
