Fixing or replacing your roof is one of those jobs where you can’t afford guesswork. Your roof protects everything inside your home, so choosing the wrong person can turn into a very expensive mistake. Many homeowners slip up during the hiring process, but these points will help you avoid the most common problems.
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Insurance: The First Thing You Check, Not the Last
If someone gets hurt while working on your roof and the contractor doesn’t have insurance, the injury could legally become your responsibility. The same goes for property damage. If the roofer messes up and you end up with a leak that ruins your ceiling or walls, and they don’t have proper coverage, you’re paying for it yourself.
That’s why insurance isn’t a formality — it’s your safety net.
Two Types of Insurance You Must See
1. Liability Insurance
Covers damage the crew might cause to your home — siding, gutters, landscaping, anything accidental.
What you should do:
Ask for a Certificate of Insurance. Then call the insurance company directly using the number listed publicly (not the one printed on the form). Make sure the policy is active and has sufficient coverage — most reputable companies carry at least $1 million.
2. Workers’ Compensation
If a worker gets injured, this is the policy that pays for their medical bills and lost wages.
Why it matters:
If this coverage is missing, the injury can fall back on you under homeowner liability rules. This can lead to huge, unexpected legal and medical expenses.
What to check:
Workers’ comp must be listed on the COI. Be cautious if a contractor claims “everyone is a subcontractor.” If that’s true, each one needs their own coverage — and you have to verify it.
How to Choose the Right Roofer
1. Start With Basic Research
Before you even talk about prices:
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Look at reviews
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Ask family or neighbors who they used
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Check if the company is familiar in your area
A good roofer doesn’t hide — they usually have repeat customers and people happy to talk about their work.
2. Don’t Pick Someone Only Because They’re Cheap
The lowest bid is usually low for a reason. It could mean:
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Cheap materials
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Inexperienced labor
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Shortcuts that won’t show up until the next storm
Pick a contractor who offers solid work at a fair price — not the cheapest you can find.
3. Always Confirm Their License and Insurance
Ask for proof of:
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A valid roofing license for your area
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Both insurance policies mentioned earlier
If they hesitate or give excuses, walk away. It’s not worth the risk.
4. Get Everything in Writing
A handshake or a verbal promise isn’t enough. A proper contract should list:
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What work is being done
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Materials being used
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Timeline
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Price
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Warranty details
This protects you and also keeps the job clear and organized.
5. Never Let Anyone Rush You
Some contractors try to pressure homeowners with lines like “this deal expires today.”
That’s always a warning sign. A trustworthy contractor lets you take your time and ask questions.
How to Check a Roofer’s References the Right Way
Most people ask for references but don’t actually know how to evaluate them. Instead of accepting a basic “they were good,” dig deeper so you actually learn something.
1. What to Ask a Reference
Ask questions that require real answers, not one-word replies.
About the Job
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“What exactly did they do for you?”
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“Did the final cost match the estimate?”
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“Were there delays? How did they handle them?”
About Professionalism
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“Did they keep the site clean every day?”
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“Was the site manager easy to reach?”
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“Did they handle permits and inspections properly?”
About Long-Term Performance
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“How has the roof held up over storms?”
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“Did you need any follow-up service? How quickly did they respond?”
2. Visit a Previous Job Site
A quick drive-by is often more revealing than a phone call. Ask for an address of a roof they completed at least a year or two ago.
Look for:
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Straight lines and clean shingle patterns
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No obvious warping or uneven areas
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Proper flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys
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No signs of heavy granule buildup in gutters (a sign of early wear)
3. Check Their Online Presence and Records
A contractor’s digital trail can tell you a lot.
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Read reviews on Google, BBB, Angi, Houzz
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Look for detailed reviews, not vague ones
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See how they respond to negative feedback
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Look through photos on their website or social media
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Make sure the business name, address, and contact info match what’s on their license and insurance
If details don’t line up, that’s a red flag.
Final Words
Finding a reliable roofing contractor in San Antonio, TX takes some effort, but it’s worth it. When you research properly, check their license and insurance, avoid suspiciously cheap offers, get a solid contract, and take your time choosing — you protect your home and your wallet from future problems.