UPDATED FOR 2025
How to Find a Roofing Contractor: 11 Tips for Choosing the Right Roofer
Learn how to find a reputable roofing contractor for your Long Island home. Learn the essential questions to ask, red flags to avoid, and what separates elite contractors from average ones.
Key Takeaways:
- Start with manufacturer certifications—they identify the top 1-3% of contractors – GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred contractors meet rigorous quality standards
- Verify licensing, insurance, and physical local address before scheduling estimates – Many contractors operate illegally, putting homeowners at serious financial risk
- Get 2-3 written estimates and compare warranties, not just prices – The cheapest bid often becomes the most expensive mistake
- Longer warranties indicate contractor confidence – Elite contractors offer 25-year labor warranties versus the 2-10 year industry average
- Ask about own employees versus subcontractors – Companies using their own trained crews deliver more consistent quality
- Local experience matters for understanding regional weather challenges – Long Island roofs face unique conditions requiring specialized knowledge
- Red flags include high-pressure tactics, cash-only payment demands, and vague contracts – Professional contractors give you time to make informed decisions
Why Finding the Right Roofing Contractor Matters
Your roof protects everything you value—your family, your belongings, your home itself.
When it’s time for repairs or replacement, choosing the wrong contractor can cost you thousands in additional expenses, void your warranties, or leave you with a roof that fails prematurely.
The difference between an average contractor and an elite one shows up in warranty length, installation quality, and whether they’ll still be in business when you need them years down the road.
Unfortunately, the roofing industry attracts both dedicated professionals and opportunistic scammers. Storm chasers appear after severe weather, collect deposits, and disappear.
Unlicensed contractors undercut legitimate companies but leave homeowners liable for injuries and code violations. Even some licensed contractors cut corners with inferior materials or untrained crews.
This guide walks you through exactly how to find a roofing contractor you can trust, what questions to ask, and which red flags should send you running.
Start Your Search the Right Way
Don’t wait until your roof is actively leaking to start looking for contractors. Emergency situations force rushed decisions that often lead to regret.
Begin your search with manufacturer certification programs. Visit the websites of major manufacturers like GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning to use their contractor locators. These tools identify certified contractors in your area who’ve met rigorous quality standards.
Certified contractors aren’t just average companies with a badge—they’re the top 1-3% of the entire industry. They’ve demonstrated proven business practices, financial stability, and consistent quality that manufacturers trust with their products and reputations.
For Long Island homeowners specifically, look for contractors certified in your county or borough. Nassau and Suffolk County contractors understand coastal weather challenges differently than upstate contractors or out-of-state companies.
Ask friends, family, and neighbors for referrals, especially if you can see their completed roofs. Personal recommendations from people you trust carry more weight than online reviews alone, though both matter.
Check the Better Business Bureau, Google reviews, Yelp, and local community groups for patterns in customer feedback. A few negative reviews aren’t disqualifying, but consistent complaints about the same issues reveal serious problems.
Learn more about why manufacturer certifications matter in our guide to roofing certifications →
Verify Credentials Before Scheduling Estimates
Before you waste time on estimates, verify each contractor’s basic credentials.
Check licensing requirements for your location. In New York, roofing contractors must hold proper licenses to operate legally. Verify licenses through your local building department or the New York State Department of Labor.
Confirm current insurance coverage. Every legitimate contractor carries general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Request certificates of insurance and call the insurance company directly to verify active coverage—certificates can be faked.
If someone gets injured on your property and the contractor lacks workers’ comp, you become liable for their medical bills and lost wages. That risk alone makes verifying insurance non-negotiable.
Look for a physical local address, not just a P.O. box or cell phone number. Legitimate contractors maintain real offices with staff. Storm chasers and fly-by-night operators use temporary phone numbers and disappear when problems arise.
Confirm they’ve been in business locally for at least 3-5 years. Longevity matters because it indicates stability, reputation worth protecting, and accountability to past customers.
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Questions to Ask During Initial Contact
When you call or submit an online form to roofing contractors, their responses reveal professionalism and expertise.
Ask about manufacturer certifications specifically. Don’t just accept “we’re certified”—ask which manufacturers and what certification levels they hold. GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred represent the industry’s most prestigious designations.
Inquire about warranty coverage upfront. How long is their labor warranty? What does it cover? Elite contractors offer 25-year labor warranties, while average companies typically provide 5-10 years.
Ask if they use their own employees or subcontractors. Companies using their own trained crews deliver more consistent quality than those hiring day laborers or subcontracting to the lowest bidder.
Request information about their local experience. How long have they worked in your specific county or borough? Do they understand Long Island’s coastal climate challenges, nor’easters, and freeze-thaw cycles?
Clarify their service area. Some contractors charge extra for homes outside their primary territory. Confirm you’re within their normal service radius to avoid surprise trip charges.
Professional contractors answer these questions directly and confidently. Vague responses or deflection indicate problems.
The On-Site Inspection and Estimate Process
Reputable contractors perform thorough inspections before providing estimates.
Schedule estimates with at least 2-3 contractors to compare. This helps you identify fair pricing, spot unusually low bids that signal red flags, and understand what different companies recommend.
During the inspection, the contractor should examine your roof from multiple angles. They’ll check shingle condition, flashing around chimneys and skylights, ventilation systems, gutters, and your attic interior for moisture or structural issues.
They should explain their findings in plain language and show you photos of problem areas. Transparency at this stage indicates how they’ll communicate throughout your project.
Be wary of contractors who claim severe damage you can’t see or pressure immediate decisions. “Your roof will collapse” or “This price is only good today” are high-pressure tactics used by scammers, not professional companies.
Ask about the inspection itself—did they actually climb onto your roof, or did they just look from the ground? Thorough inspections require getting up close, not just driving by.
Understanding Written Estimates
Never accept a verbal estimate or vague quote. Professional contractors provide detailed written estimates breaking down all costs.
Your estimate should specify:
Total project cost with clear breakdown of labor and materials
Specific materials to be used (manufacturer, product line, color)
Scope of work (complete tear-off, number of layers to remove, etc.)
What’s included (cleanup, disposal, permit fees, accessories)
Warranty information (both labor and materials)
Estimated project timeline
Payment schedule
Compare estimates side-by-side, not just total costs. A lower bid might exclude critical work that other contractors include, like replacing damaged decking, upgrading ventilation, or installing ice and water shield at eaves and valleys.
Ask contractors to explain significant price differences. Understanding why one company charges more or less helps you evaluate whether you’re comparing apples to apples.
Some contractors itemize permits, disposal fees, and other costs separately. Others bundle everything into one price. Make sure you’re comparing complete project costs, not partial figures.
Explore financing options that make quality roofing affordable in our guide to roof financing →
Evaluating Warranties: Material vs. Labor Coverage
Understanding warranty coverage separates excellent contractors from average ones.
Material warranties come from manufacturers and protect against defective products. Standard manufacturer warranties typically cover 25-50 years, with some offering “lifetime” coverage (which actually means the life of the original owner’s occupancy).
Labor warranties come from contractors and cover installation errors. This is where contractors differ dramatically. The industry average is 5-10 years, but elite contractors offer 25-year labor warranties.
Here’s why labor warranties matter so much: even the best shingles fail prematurely if installed incorrectly. Improper nailing, inadequate ventilation, or poor flashing work causes leaks and damage. Without long-term labor coverage, you pay thousands to fix these installation mistakes.
Enhanced warranties combine extended material and labor coverage. These premium warranties are only available when elite certified contractors install complete roofing systems using manufacturer-specified components.
For example, GAF’s Golden Pledge Limited Warranty provides 50 years of material coverage plus 25 years of workmanship protection—but only Master Elite contractors can offer it. CertainTeed’s SureStart PLUS 5-Star warranty works similarly, exclusively through SELECT ShingleMaster contractors.
Red Flags That Should Disqualify a Contractor
Some warning signs should immediately eliminate contractors from consideration.
High-pressure tactics and “today only” pricing. Legitimate contractors give you time to make informed decisions. They don’t manufacture urgency with artificial deadlines or threats that prices triple tomorrow.
Demanding large upfront payments or cash only. Professional contractors typically request 15-20% deposits, with remaining payments tied to project milestones. Cash-only demands signal tax evasion or plans to disappear with your money.
No physical address or only a P.O. box. Real businesses maintain real offices. Contractors working from trucks or providing only cell phone numbers vanish when warranty claims arise.
Offering to waive insurance deductibles. This is insurance fraud. Contractors who suggest this are willing to commit crimes—what else will they cut corners on?
Refusing to provide written contracts or certificates of insurance. Everything must be documented in writing. Verbal agreements are worthless when disputes occur.
Suspiciously low bids that are 30-50% below competitors. Someone cutting prices that dramatically is either using inferior materials, skipping critical steps, or planning to increase costs mid-project.
No manufacturer certifications or ability to offer enhanced warranties. If they can’t access premium warranty programs, they haven’t met manufacturers’ quality standards.
Storm chasers who appear uninvited after weather events. Out-of-state contractors who flood your area after storms typically do shoddy work and leave before problems surface.
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Your house deserves the best roofing warranty on the market. Give us a call today and get a brand new roof with a 50-year material, 25-year labor warranty from the best roofing contractor in Long Island and New York.
The Importance of Local Experience
Roofing isn’t one-size-fits-all—different climates require different approaches.
Long Island roofs face unique challenges that out-of-state contractors don’t understand. Harsh nor’easters bring heavy snow loads and high winds. Summer humidity promotes algae growth and mold. Coastal salt air accelerates corrosion of metal components.
Contractors with decades of local experience know which materials perform best in your specific environment. They understand Nassau County building codes differ from Suffolk County requirements. They anticipate problems before they occur because they’ve seen Long Island’s weather test thousands of roofs.
Ask how long they’ve worked in your county or borough specifically. General “New York” experience isn’t the same as Nassau County expertise. Each region has distinct weather patterns and regulatory requirements.
Local contractors also respond faster in emergencies. When storms damage your roof, you need someone who can arrive within hours or days, not weeks. Contractors based 50+ miles away or out of state take longer and may charge extra for travel.
Verify they maintain proper licensing for your specific municipality. Requirements vary across Long Island. What’s acceptable in one county may not meet standards in another.
See why local expertise matters when searching for roofing companies near you →
Own Employees vs. Subcontractors
How companies staff their projects reveals everything about quality control.
Many roofing contractors don’t employ their own installation crews. Instead, they act as middlemen, hiring subcontractors—often day laborers or the cheapest crews available—for each job.
This subcontracting model creates serious problems. There’s no consistent quality standards, no ongoing training, no real accountability when problems arise. Different crews on different jobs mean wildly inconsistent results.
Elite contractors use only their own trained, certified employees. Every person working on your roof represents the company’s reputation. These aren’t temporary workers—they’re career professionals who undergo extensive manufacturer training, safety certification, and regular performance reviews.
Ask contractors directly: “Do you use your own employees or subcontractors?” If they subcontract work, ask how they ensure quality control and whether their warranty covers subcontractor errors.
Companies using their own crews can guarantee workmanship because they directly supervise every installation. When problems arise, there’s clear accountability. The same team that installed your roof handles warranty service.
Material Quality: Premium vs. Builder-Grade
Not all roofing materials are created equal, and some contractors bet you won’t know the difference.
To offer lower prices, many contractors substitute builder-grade materials or cheaper alternatives. They might quote GAF Timberline HDZ shingles but install a cheaper product. They’ll use inadequate underlayment or skip ice and water shield entirely.
These shortcuts aren’t visible from the ground—your roof looks fine initially. But within a few years, problems emerge: premature shingle failure, leaks around flashing, ice dams from inadequate protection.
Elite contractors use exclusively premium materials from top manufacturers. When they quote specific products, that’s exactly what you get. No substitutions, no cheaper alternatives, no cutting corners on critical components.
Ask contractors: “Do you exclusively use products from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning, or do you mix in economy brands?” The answer tells you whether they prioritize quality or profit margins.
Verify which underlayment, starter strips, and ventilation products they include. Complete roofing systems using manufacturer-specified components last longer and qualify for enhanced warranties. Mixed-brand installations may void premium coverage.
Communication and Project Management
How contractors communicate during sales predicts how they’ll perform during your project.
Professional contractors maintain clear, consistent communication. They show up on time for appointments, return calls promptly, provide regular project updates, and answer questions thoroughly.
Poor communication is one of the most common homeowner complaints about roofing contractors. Contractors who go silent after receiving deposits or fail to update you on delays cause unnecessary stress.
Ask about their project management process. Who’s your point of contact? How often will they update you? What happens if problems or delays occur?
Inquire about cleanup procedures and site protection. How will they protect your landscaping, driveway, and home exterior? What’s included in debris removal? Will they use magnetic tools to pick up loose nails?
Elite contractors treat your home with respect, maintain organized job sites, and leave your property cleaner than they found it.
Fill out the form below or give us a call today at (888) 366-6619:
Making Your Final Decision
After gathering estimates, verifying credentials, and checking references, it’s time to choose.
Don’t automatically pick the cheapest bid. Quality roofing work has fairly consistent pricing based on materials and labor. Extremely low bids indicate cut corners, inferior materials, or contractors who’ll increase prices mid-project.
Compare total value, not just total cost. A contractor offering 25-year labor warranties, premium materials, own employees, and elite certifications provides far more value than one offering 5-year coverage with economy products, even if the upfront cost is slightly higher.
Consider long-term protection and peace of mind. Your roof should last 25-30 years. A contractor who’ll still be in business and honor warranties decades from now is worth paying appropriately for.
Review contracts carefully before signing. Ensure all verbal promises appear in writing. Verify warranty terms, material specifications, project timeline, and payment schedule match what you discussed.
Trust your instincts about professionalism and communication. If something feels off—high pressure, vague answers, lack of credentials—walk away. There are plenty of excellent contractors who won’t give you reasons to worry.
The County Roofing Systems Difference
Throughout this guide, we’ve outlined what homeowners should demand from roofing contractors. County Roofing Systems represents the gold standard in every category.
Elite Triple Certifications
County Roofing Systems holds three of the industry’s most prestigious certifications:
GAF Master Elite Contractor – Top 3% nationwide
CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster – Top 1% in Nassau County
Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor – Elite invitation-only status
These aren’t marketing badges—they’re proof of expertise that qualifies you for the industry’s best warranties.
Industry-Leading 25-Year Labor Warranty
While most contractors offer 5-10 year labor coverage, County Roofing Systems backs every installation with a comprehensive 25-year labor warranty. Combined with 50-year material warranties from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning, your roof is protected for decades.
35+ Years Serving Long Island
Since 1988, County Roofing Systems has been protecting homes throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, and Westchester County. That’s three and a half decades of understanding exactly what roofs need to survive Long Island’s challenging climate.
Own Trained Employees—Never Subcontractors
Every person working on your roof is a County Roofing Systems employee who receives ongoing manufacturer training and follows strict quality control procedures. You’re never dealing with day laborers or unknown subcontractors.
Premium Materials Exclusively
County Roofing Systems installs only top-tier products from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. No economy shingles. No second-tier materials. Only products proven to perform in Long Island’s demanding environment.
Comprehensive Services Under One Roof
Beyond roofing, County Roofing Systems provides siding, windows, gutters, chimneys, dormers, and extensions. One contractor, one warranty, one point of accountability for your entire exterior project.
Transparent Pricing and Flexible Financing
Clear written estimates with detailed breakdowns mean no surprises. Flexible financing options including 0% interest programs make quality roofing affordable without compromising on materials or workmanship.
Fully Licensed Throughout Long Island and NYC
County Roofing Systems maintains proper licensing in Nassau County, Suffolk County, all five New York City boroughs, and Westchester County. They’ve met each jurisdiction’s strict standards for contractor quality and consumer protection.
Don’t settle for contractors who might disappear after collecting your deposit or who lack the certifications to offer you enhanced warranty protection. Choose the roofing company Long Island homeowners have trusted for over 35 years.
Call (888) 366-6619 or visit countyroofingsystems.com
Get a free roof inspection from Long Island’s most experienced roofing professionals—backed by elite certifications, comprehensive warranties, and a local reputation built over more than three decades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify a roofing contractor's license?
Contact your local building department or the New York State Department of Labor to verify contractor licenses. Request the contractor’s license number and confirm it’s current and in good standing. Never accept their word alone—independent verification protects you from unlicensed operators who put you at legal and financial risk.
What's the difference between material warranties and labor warranties?
Material warranties from manufacturers (typically 25-50 years) cover defective products. Labor warranties from contractors (ideally 10-25 years) cover installation errors. You need both for complete protection. Elite contractors like County Roofing Systems offer 50-year material warranties through manufacturer certifications plus industry-leading 25-year labor warranties.
How many estimates should I get before choosing a contractor?
Get at least 2-3 detailed written estimates from different contractors. This helps you identify fair pricing, understand what different companies recommend, and spot unusually low bids that indicate red flags. Compare total value including warranties and materials quality, not just bottom-line prices.
Why does manufacturer certification matter when choosing a contractor?
Certifications like GAF Master Elite and CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster identify the top 1-3% of contractors who meet rigorous quality standards. These contractors undergo extensive training, maintain proven business practices, and qualify you for enhanced warranties unavailable through non-certified contractors. Certification isn’t just marketing—it’s verifiable proof of expertise.
What questions should I ask before hiring a roofing contractor?
Ask about manufacturer certifications, warranty lengths (both labor and material), whether they use own employees versus subcontractors, local experience in your county, financing options, and how long they’ve been in business. Professional contractors answer these questions directly and provide documentation to verify their claims.
How long does typical roof replacement take?
Most single-family home roof replacements take 1-3 days for standard asphalt shingle installations. Larger homes, complex designs, multiple stories, or severe weather can extend timelines. Ask contractors for realistic estimates based on your specific project and understand that quality work shouldn’t be rushed.
What red flags should make me avoid a contractor?
Avoid contractors who demand large upfront payments or cash only, use high-pressure tactics with “today only” pricing, refuse to provide written contracts, can’t produce valid insurance certificates, have no physical address, offer suspiciously low bids 30-50% below competitors, or appear uninvited after storms. These warning signs indicate scammers or unlicensed operators.
How important is it to hire a local Long Island contractor?
Local experience is critical. Long Island’s climate creates unique challenges—nor’easters, coastal humidity, salt air exposure, freeze-thaw cycles—that require specialized knowledge. Contractors with decades of local experience like County Roofing Systems (35+ years) understand which materials perform best and how to install them for maximum protection in your specific environment.
