Hiring a roofing contractor is a decision that can affect the safety, appearance, and long-term value of your home. Yet many homeowners rush into it without asking the right questions or confirming key details. The result? Poor workmanship, hidden costs, and unfinished jobs that are costly to fix.
A clear, step-by-step checklist can make all the difference. It helps you stay organised, ask the right questions, and avoid falling for vague promises or unqualified contractors.
If you haven’t already, you can also read our guide on choosing the right roofing contractor to better understand what to expect before you begin.
Before contacting any roofing companies, take a moment to define your needs. Are you replacing the entire roof, repairing damage, or upgrading to new materials? Knowing the scope will help you communicate clearly and avoid receiving inconsistent or incomplete quotes.
It also helps to know your preferred roofing material, your timeline, and whether you’ll need permits or structural adjustments.
One of the first things to confirm is that the contractor is licensed in NSW for the type of roofing work required. This ensures they meet the state’s legal and safety standards.
You should also request proof of insurance, including public liability and workers’ compensation. These policies protect you financially in the event of property damage or injury during the job.
If a contractor hesitates to provide either document, it’s worth reconsidering your choice.
A professional roofing quote should be itemised and clear. It should include labour, materials, waste removal, estimated project duration, and payment terms. Vague pricing or a lump sum with no explanation is a red flag.
Ask about the brands and types of materials included. If something isn’t specified—like flashing, sarking, or fasteners—get clarification in writing. You want to know exactly what you’re paying for.
Find out what type of warranties are provided, both for the materials and the workmanship. Most quality roofing products come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but it’s just as important to have a warranty on the contractor’s labour.
Ask for the warranty duration, what it covers, and whether you’ll receive a certificate once the job is complete.
Before hiring, ask to see examples of similar roofing jobs they’ve completed. Ideally, these should include homes like yours—whether that means similar pitch, material, or architectural style.
Also request at least two references. Speak to past clients and ask whether the contractor delivered on time, stayed on budget, and resolved any issues professionally.
You can also check independent reviews on platforms like Google or local building forums.
Avoid contractors who request the full payment upfront. A fair payment structure usually includes a small deposit to secure the job, progress payments tied to stages of work, and a final payment due upon completion.
Make sure all payment terms are clearly outlined in the contract before signing anything.
Good roofing contractors explain things clearly and welcome questions. Pay attention to how they respond during the quoting process. Are they responsive, transparent, and patient? If they’re difficult to communicate with before the job starts, that won’t improve once work begins.
You should feel comfortable and confident working with them—not rushed or left in the dark.
Before the job starts, make sure you receive a formal written contract. It should outline the full scope of work, warranty terms, pricing, materials, payment schedule, and expected timeline.
Review it carefully and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Never rely on verbal agreements or handshake deals—everything should be documented.
A quality roofing job begins long before the first tile is laid. It starts with asking the right questions, confirming qualifications, and setting clear expectations. By following a structured hiring process, you protect your home, your money, and your peace of mind.
At Sydney Discount Roof Repair, we’re always happy to answer questions and provide detailed documentation. We believe in transparency from start to finish—because that’s what homeowners deserve.
Talk to us today about roofing services for your home or business.
