When it comes to protecting your home, few things matter more than the integrity of your roof. Whether you’re repairing storm damage, replacing an aging structure, or upgrading your home for energy efficiency and curb appeal, choosing the right residential roofer can make or break your investment.
Not all roofing contractors are created equal, and selecting the wrong one can lead to costly mistakes, hidden fees, delays, or even shoddy workmanship. The good news? With the right questions, you can confidently hire a residential roofer who’s experienced, trustworthy, and capable of delivering high-quality results.
In this guide, we break down the Top 7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Residential Roofer, so you can make a well-informed decision and protect your greatest asset—your home.
Why It’s Crucial to Ask the Right Questions
Roofing is not just another home improvement project—it’s a structural, financial, and aesthetic investment. Your roof is your first line of defense against Virginia Beach’s coastal weather, from salty air to summer storms and winter winds.
Hiring a residential roofer without proper vetting can result in:
- Poor workmanship and recurring leaks
- Unnecessary damage to shingles, flashing, or decking
- Voided manufacturer warranties due to improper installation
- Overpayment for low-quality materials
- Legal risks if the crew isn’t properly licensed or insured
Whether you’re replacing a roof in Great Neck, repairing storm damage in Oceanfront, or upgrading shingles in Kempsville, these seven questions will help you vet your contractor thoroughly—and avoid future headaches.
The Top 7 Questions to Ask Your Residential Roofer
1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Virginia?
Always ask your residential roofer for proof of licensing and insurance. In Virginia, roofing contractors must be licensed by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). This license confirms they’ve met training requirements and follow safety and construction codes.
Also request:
- General liability insurance: covers property damage caused during the project
- Workers’ compensation: protects you from liability if a crew member gets injured
- Bonding: ensures the job gets completed if the contractor defaults
A professional roofer should be able to show these documents without hesitation.
Red flag: If a contractor hesitates or gives vague answers like “we’re covered,” consider it a dealbreaker
2. What Type of Roofing Systems Do You Specialize In?
There are various residential roofing systems available in the Virginia Beach market, including:
- Asphalt shingles (the most popular and affordable)
- Metal roofing (durable and energy efficient)
- Architectural shingles (stylish and high-performance)
- Flat roofing systems (for modern or multi-use homes)
An experienced residential roofer should be able to explain the pros and cons of each, recommend options based on your budget and goals, and back their expertise with a portfolio.
Bonus tip: Ask if they’re certified installers with specific manufacturers like GAF, CertainTeed, or Owens Corning—this typically extends your product warranty
3. Can You Provide Local References or Reviews?
Reputation matters. A roofer might sound great on paper, but hearing directly from past customers in Virginia Beach neighborhoods like Hilltop, Little Neck, or Red Mill can reveal the true customer experience.
Ask for:
- At least three local references
- Photos or videos of recent projects
- Verified Google reviews or Better Business Bureau ratings
You can even drive by past job sites to inspect the quality yourself.
Pro tip: Look for consistency in how the company handles communication, deadlines, cleanliness, and post-installation support
4. What Does the Warranty Cover—And for How Long?
Most reputable roofers will offer two types of warranties:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: covers material defects (typically 25 years to lifetime)
- Workmanship Warranty: covers labor errors or installation defects (typically 1–10 years)
A dependable residential roofer should be transparent about:
- What each warranty covers
- How long it lasts
- What could void it (e.g., improper attic ventilation, DIY repairs)
- What’s required for the warranty to remain valid
At Reitzel Roofing & Exteriors, for example, we offer both material and labor warranties and walk our customers through every detail before the contract is signed
5. Will You Handle Permits and Inspections?
In Virginia Beach, replacing or repairing a roof often requires building permits and municipal inspections—especially for full replacements, additions, or structural upgrades. The permitting process can vary depending on your neighborhood, HOA, or zoning rules.
A professional residential roofer should:
- Be familiar with Virginia Beach building codes
- Handle all paperwork, fees, and scheduling of inspections
- Provide documentation before, during, and after the project
Important: If a roofer tells you permits aren’t needed or suggests you “pull the permit yourself,” this is a red flag. It may indicate they’re unlicensed or trying to avoid responsibility
6. What Is the Full Scope of Work and Timeline?
Your estimate should go beyond just a dollar amount. A trustworthy roofer will provide a detailed scope of work that includes:
- Material type and brand
- Layers being removed or added
- Ice/water barrier and underlayment details
- Flashing, ridge vent, and drip edge installation
- Cleanup and disposal procedures
- Daily start/end times
- Total timeline (weather dependent)
- Payment schedule and terms
This is your chance to clarify expectations, eliminate confusion, and prevent surprise charges.
Tip: Ask who will supervise the project and how you’ll receive updates. Communication is key
7. How Will You Protect My Property During the Project?
Roof replacements can be messy, noisy, and disruptive. The best residential roofers take extra steps to ensure your home and landscape stay protected throughout the process.
Ask how they’ll:
- Safeguard siding, gutters, windows, and HVAC units
- Prevent debris from damaging flower beds, patios, or walkways
- Remove nails and materials from your yard
- Handle pets or children’s safety
- Clean up each day and at project completion
Some roofers even use catch-all netting systems or magnetic sweepers to capture loose nails and debris.
At Reitzel, our crews are trained to treat your home like their own—from start to spotless finish.
Bonus Considerations Before You Sign a Roofing Contract
Beyond the core 7 questions, here are a few extra vetting tips before making your final decision:
- Get everything in writing: Verbal promises don’t hold up—your contract should detail scope, warranty, pricing, and timelines.
- Avoid storm chasers: After heavy rain or wind, out-of-town roofers may knock on your door offering “fast” fixes. Always choose a local, vetted company.
- Check manufacturer certifications: These indicate higher training standards and often come with enhanced warranties.
- Trust your gut: If a contractor pressures you, avoids questions, or dodges your calls, they’re probably not the one.
What Sets Reitzel Roofing & Exteriors Apart as Your Trusted Residential Roofer
At Reitzel Roofing & Exteriors, we understand that hiring a residential roofer is about more than shingles and nails—it’s about trust, quality, and protecting your home for decades to come.
Here’s why homeowners across Virginia Beach—from Thoroughgood to Sandbridge—continue to choose us:
Licensed, Insured & Local
We’re a fully licensed Virginia contractor with comprehensive insurance coverage and deep roots in the Hampton Roads area. We’ve worked on homes throughout Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesapeake for years—and we’re here to stay.
Certified Installers
We’re certified by top manufacturers like CertainTeed and Owens Corning, which means our team is trained to install products to exact specifications—and you get access to premium warranty protection.
Custom Residential Roofing Solutions
From asphalt shingle replacements to energy-efficient upgrades, we tailor every project to your home’s needs, architecture, and budget. We don’t do cookie-cutter roofs—we do what’s best for you.
On-Time and On-Budget
We pride ourselves on transparent timelines and fair pricing. You’ll never be surprised by hidden fees, change orders, or vague expectations. Just honest, excellent work.
Stellar Reputation
With hundreds of 5-star reviews, an A+ BBB rating, and a portfolio of successful projects across the region, we’ve earned a reputation for excellence, integrity, and customer satisfaction.
Clean and Respectful Crews
We leave your home better than we found it. Our crews clean up daily, protect your landscaping, and treat your property like their own. We’re proud of our workmanship—and it shows.
Final Thoughts — Don’t Settle When Hiring a Residential Roofer
Hiring the right residential roofer isn’t just about who offers the cheapest quote. It’s about hiring someone who:
- Listens to your needs
- Educates you on your options
- Protects your investment
- Delivers high-quality craftsmanship
- Communicates with honesty
- And stands behind their work
By asking the seven questions outlined in this guide, you’ll put yourself in the best possible position to choose a roofing partner who won’t cut corners—and who will help you sleep easy under a roof you can trust.
If you’re in the Virginia Beach area and ready for a roof inspection, replacement, or second opinion, reach out to the team at Reitzel Roofing & Exteriors.
Call today or visit ReitzelExteriors.com to schedule your free estimate with a certified residential roofer. Let’s build something strong, beautiful, and built to last.
