When it comes to roof repair, most homeowners are left in the dark. Contractors often throw around jargon, hand you a quote, and expect you to sign without fully understanding the scope of the work. But your roof is your first line of defense against wind, rain, and everything else Mother Nature throws your way. That’s why we’ve created The Ultimate Roof Repair Checklist—packed with everything you need to know before, during, and after a roof repair project.
Whether you're dealing with a small leak or a major overhaul, this guide will help you ask the right questions, spot red flags, and avoid being taken advantage of. Let's pull back the curtain on what roofing contractors won’t tell you—but you definitely need to know.
1. Know When It’s Time for Roof Repair
Not all roof problems require full replacement, but many sneak up on you. Here are some tell-tale signs it’s time for roof repairs:
Water stains on ceilings or walls
Missing, curled, or cracked shingles
Granules in your gutters (from deteriorating shingles)
Sagging rooflines
Light peeking through attic boards
Mold or moss growth on the roof
If you spot any of these, it’s time to take action, delaying repairs can lead to far more expensive problems.
2. Start With a Thorough Inspection
A professional roof inspection isn’t just a sales tactic—it’s critical. But many contractors rush through or skip key steps. Make sure they:
Inspect both the exterior and interior
Check flashing, gutters, and ventilation
Evaluate attic insulation and moisture levels
Identify previous repairs or signs of poor workmanship
Tip: Ask for photos of the damage. A reputable contractor will show you exactly what they’re seeing—and why it needs fixing.
3. Understand the Materials Being Used
Here’s something contractors don’t often emphasize: not all roofing materials are created equal. Make sure you understand your options:
Asphalt shingles (common and affordable)
Metal roofing (durable, energy-efficient)
Tile or slate (premium, but heavy)
Synthetic options (mimic a high-end look at a lower cost)
Also, ask whether materials meet local building codes and climate standards.
4. Verify Contractor Credentials
Hiring the wrong contractor can lead to botched repairs—or worse. Before you sign:
Check licensing and insurance
Look for certifications from manufacturers (like GAF or CertainTeed)
Ask for references and reviews
Make sure they offer a written warranty
Pro Tip: A legitimate contractor won’t pressure you. If someone’s rushing you to sign today, that’s a red flag.
5. Don’t Skip the Written Estimate
Many homeowners rely on verbal promises, a big mistake. A proper estimate should include:
Scope of work
Materials list
Labor costs
Start and completion dates
Warranty terms
Cleanup procedures
Insist on detailed documentation. It protects you if anything goes sideways later on.
6. Ask About Flashing and Underlayment
This is where many contractors cut corners. But flashing and underlayment are your roof’s hidden heroes:
Flashing protects roof joints from leaks (chimneys, valleys, skylights)
Underlayment is a moisture barrier beneath your shingles
Replacing shingles without addressing these is like putting a Band-Aid on a bullet wound. Make sure your estimate includes upgrades or repairs to both.
7. Demand a Proper Ventilation Check
Poor ventilation is a silent killer of roofs. It can lead to:
Mold and mildew
Ice dams in winter
Overheating in summer
Premature aging of shingles
A quality contractor will inspect and, if needed, improve your attic ventilation, not just patch shingles and leave.
8. Review the Warranty Carefully
Warranties are often loaded with fine print. Ask:
What’s covered—materials, labor, or both?
Length of coverage
Transferability if you sell your home
What voids the warranty (e.g., improper installation or lack of maintenance)
Bonus Tip: Request both the manufacturer’s warranty and the contractor’s workmanship warranty.
9. Plan for Weather Delays and Cleanup
Roofing is weather-sensitive. Get clarity on:
What happens if rain delays the job?
How will your property be protected during storms?
Who handles cleanup and debris removal?
You’d be surprised how many contractors leave behind shingle scraps, nails, or even tools. Specify that cleanup and magnet sweeps are included.
10. Don’t Pay Everything Upfront
A reputable contractor won’t ask for 100% payment before work begins. A typical payment structure looks like this:
10%-30% down payment
Progress payments after major milestones
Final payment upon completion and inspection
Paying everything upfront gives you no leverage if corners are cut. Hold back until you’re 100% satisfied.
11. Be Present During Repairs (When Possible)
While you don’t need to hover, being around helps:
Ensure the crew sticks to the agreed scope
Ask questions in real time
Watch out for unexpected shortcuts
Plus, any issues found during the repair can be discussed and approved on the spot, avoiding delays or confusion.
12. Get Before and After Photos
Insist on photographic documentation of your roof:
Before the repair
During key stages (tear-off, underlayment, flashing)
Final result
This gives you proof of work and peace of mind—and can be a valuable asset if you ever sell your home or make an insurance claim.
13. Know the Signs of a Bad Roof Repair
Even after a project is “complete,” you should stay alert for:
Leaks or new stains after the next rain
Loose or missing shingles
Wavy or uneven rooflines
Noises or drafts in the attic
Spot something suspicious? Contact the contractor immediately and reference your warranty.
14. Stay Proactive with Maintenance
A roof repair isn’t a one-and-done fix. Maintain your roof with:
Annual inspections
Regular gutter cleaning
Trimming overhanging trees
Checking attic insulation
A little maintenance now can save you thousands in future repairs.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Roof Repair
Most homeowners don’t realize how much power and responsibility they have when it comes to roof repairs. The truth is, many contractors won’t volunteer this information—because the less you know, the easier their job is.
But with The Ultimate Roof Repair Checklist in your hands, you can:
Spot problems early
Choose the right contractor
Ask smarter questions
Avoid common pitfalls
And ensure your home is truly protected
Your roof protects everything you love underneath it—so don’t settle for vague promises or rushed jobs. Use this checklist, stay informed, and demand the quality your home deserves. And when you're ready to work with professionals who value transparency and precision, consider Forcewashing to help get the job done right.
