Roofing Company FAQs: What Illinois Homeowners Should Ask Before Hiring

Key Takeaways

• Hiring the right roofing company protects your home and saves money.
• Always check if roofing contractors are licensed and insured.
• Ask about experience with Illinois weather to ensure durability.
• Free inspections and clear estimates help avoid hidden costs.
• Different roofing materials offer unique benefits—choose wisely.
• A written contract prevents misunderstandings and extra charges.
• Read reviews and ask for references before making a decision.
• A good warranty ensures long-term protection for your roof.
• Reliable residential roofing services include permits and cleanup.
• Choose Advanced Roofing for expert roofing repair services in Illinois.

Hiring a roofing company is a big decision. Your roof protects your home, so you need a team you can trust. But how do you know if a company is right for the job? Asking the right questions can save you money and headaches down the road.

Whether you need roofing repair services or a full replacement, here are the top questions to ask before hiring roofing contractors in Illinois.

Are You Licensed and Insured?

This should be your first question. A reputable company should have:

• A valid state license for residential roofing services
• Liability insurance to cover property damage
• Workers' compensation insurance to protect their employees

Never hire a company that cannot provide proof of these credentials. If an uninsured roofer gets hurt on your property, you could be responsible for their medical bills.

What Experience Do You Have with Illinois Weather?

Illinois weather can be harsh—hot summers, freezing winters, and heavy storms. Ask your roofer:

• How they handle extreme weather conditions
• What materials work best for Illinois homes
• If they have experience with storm damage repairs

Choosing a roofer with local experience ensures your roof will hold up in all seasons.

Do You Offer Free Inspections and Estimates?

A good roofing company will inspect your roof for free and provide a written estimate. Look for:

• A detailed breakdown of costs
• No hidden fees
• A clear timeline for the work

If a company tries to charge for an estimate, it’s a red flag.

What Roofing Materials Do You Recommend?

Different homes need different materials. Your roofer should explain:

• Asphalt shingles – Affordable and good for most homes
• Metal roofing – Durable and energy-efficient
• Slate and tile – Long-lasting but more expensive
• Wood shakes – Classic look but high maintenance

Ask which option fits your budget and climate best.

Do You Provide Written Contracts?

Never start work without a contract. It should include:

• The total cost and payment schedule
• A detailed scope of work
• Warranty details
• A cleanup plan after the job

If a company refuses to give you a written contract, walk away.

How Long Will the Project Take?

Roofing jobs vary, but your contractor should give you a timeline. Ask about:

• Estimated start and finish dates
• Weather-related delays
• What happens if they don’t meet the deadline

A good company will keep you updated throughout the process.

Do You Have References or Online Reviews?

Check their reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Also, ask for:

• Photos of past projects
• Contact info for previous customers
• Any awards or certifications

If a company refuses to provide references, that’s a red flag.

What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?

A solid warranty protects your investment. Look for:

• A manufacturer’s warranty on materials
• A workmanship warranty on labor
• Coverage for at least 10 years

Some warranties are void if not installed by certified roofing contractors, so choose wisely.

Will You Handle Permits and Inspections?

Most major roofing projects need permits. Ask your contractor if they will:

• Get the necessary permits for the job
• Arrange for inspections if required
• Ensure everything meets local codes

Avoid companies that ask you to handle permits yourself.

What Happens if There’s an Issue After Installation?

Even the best roofs can have issues. Your contractor should offer:

• Emergency roofing repair services
• Free follow-ups on installation issues
• A clear process for filing warranty claims

A company that stands behind its work will gladly answer this question.

Will My Landscaping Be Protected?

Roofing work can be messy. Make sure your contractor will:

• Use tarps to cover plants and grass
• Clean up debris daily
• Use a magnet roller to remove nails from your yard

You don’t want to deal with a mess after your roof is done.

What Payment Options Do You Offer?

Be wary of contractors asking for full payment upfront. Look for:

• Payment plans or financing options
• A small deposit to start
• Final payment only after you’re satisfied

Avoid any company that pressures you into paying for everything before work begins.

Choose the Right Roofing Company for Your Home

Your home deserves the best residential roof repair services. At Advanced Roofing, we offer expert roofing repair services backed by years of experience. Our trusted roofing contractors provide free inspections, clear pricing, and top-quality work.

Don’t take risks with your roof—choose a team that puts your home first. Call Advanced Roofing today or visit our website to schedule your free inspection!