Illinois Roofing Contractor Checklist: What to Look for When Hiring Experts

Key Takeaways

• Hiring the right roofing contractor saves time, money, and stress.
• Check if the contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced in your area.
• Read customer reviews and ask for references to ensure quality work.
• Look for clear contracts with detailed pricing and timelines.
• Avoid contractors who demand large upfront payments or pressure you into quick decisions.
• A reliable company will offer residential roofing services with warranties.
• Regular inspections and roofing repair services extend the life of your roof.
• Trust only experienced roofing contractors for long-lasting repairs.

Hiring the right roofing contractors in Illinois is a big decision. A roof is more than just shingles—it's what protects your home from harsh weather. Whether you need roofing repair services or a full replacement, choosing the right team matters. A bad contractor can leave you with more problems than solutions. So, how do you make sure you're hiring the best?

Here’s a checklist to help you pick the right residential roofing services for your home:

1. Check Their License and Insurance

Before hiring any roofing contractors, ask for proof of license and insurance. A reputable contractor should have both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you if something goes wrong during the job.

Why this matters:

• If a worker gets injured on your property, you won’t be held responsible.
• If the contractor damages your home, their insurance will cover it.
• Licensed contractors follow state and local building codes.

2. Look for Local Experience

Hiring a local contractor is always a smart move. They know the Illinois weather conditions and what materials work best.

Signs of a reliable local roofer:

• They have a physical office in your area.
• They’ve been in business for several years.
• They have local references and completed projects nearby.

3. Read Reviews and Ask for References

A trustworthy contractor will have a track record of satisfied customers. Check Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for reviews. If they have mostly negative feedback, look elsewhere.

What to do:

• Ask for a list of past customers.
• Contact at least three references.
• Check if there are complaints filed against them.

4. Get a Written Estimate

Never agree to roofing work without a written estimate. A detailed estimate helps you avoid surprise charges later.

What a good estimate should include:

• Cost of materials and labor.
• Expected project timeline.
• Warranty details.
• Cleanup and disposal plan.

5. Beware of Storm Chasers

After a big storm, you might see contractors knocking on doors offering quick repairs. While some are legitimate, many are just out-of-town companies looking to make fast money.

Red flags of storm chasers:

• They pressure you into signing a contract on the spot.
• They offer unrealistically low prices.
• They ask for full payment upfront.

6. Ask About Their Warranty

A good contractor will stand behind their work. Ask about both the manufacturer’s warranty (for materials) and the contractor’s warranty (for labor).

What to look for:

• At least a 10-year warranty on materials.
• A 5-year labor warranty from the contractor.
• A warranty that is transferable if you sell your home.

7. Compare Multiple Quotes

Don’t settle for the first estimate you get. Get at least three different quotes from different roofing contractors. This helps you compare pricing, materials, and timelines.

Things to consider:

• The lowest bid isn’t always the best.
• Check what’s included in each estimate.
• Ask about any hidden fees.

8. Look at Their Past Work

A good contractor will have a portfolio of completed projects. Ask to see before-and-after photos of their residential roof repair services.

What to check:

• Quality of craftsmanship.
• Variety of roofing styles they have worked on.
• How well their repairs have held up over time.

9. Verify Their Safety Practices

Roofing can be dangerous work. Ask how the contractor ensures safety on the job site. A reputable company will follow OSHA guidelines and train their workers properly.

Questions to ask:

• Do you provide your workers with safety gear?
• Do you follow local safety regulations?
• How do you handle bad weather during a job?

10. Avoid Large Upfront Payments

A professional contractor will not ask for full payment before starting the job. Most ask for a deposit (usually 10-20%) and the rest after completion.

Warning signs of a scam:

• They ask for more than 50% upfront.
• They only accept cash payments.
• They won’t provide a written contract.

Protect Your Home with Trusted Roofing Experts

Hiring the right roofing contractors can save you time, money, and stress. Following this checklist helps you choose a team that delivers quality work and stands by their repairs.

If you’re looking for residential roofing services in Illinois, Advanced Roofing has you covered. We provide top-rated roofing repair services and residential roof repair services that keep your home safe year-round.

Here’s why homeowners trust us:

• Fully licensed and insured.
• Years of experience in Illinois.
• High-quality materials and expert craftsmanship.
• Free inspections and transparent pricing.

Don’t risk hiring the wrong contractor. Contact Advanced Roofing today at Advanced Roofing for reliable, professional roofing services!