Hiring the right roofing contractor is one of the most important decisions a business can make when it comes to maintaining or replacing a commercial roof. A poor roofing job can lead to leaks, energy loss, and even structural damage—all of which can be costly. That’s why knowing the right questions for a commercial roofer is essential before signing a contract.
Understanding what questions to ask a commercial roofer helps protect your investment, ensures quality workmanship, and promotes a smooth, efficient project. In this blog, we break down the most important questions business owners should ask—and why each one matters.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters
A commercial roofing project is significantly different from residential work. Commercial roofs often involve larger square footage, more complex materials, and additional code requirements.
By preparing a list of questions for a commercial roofer, business owners can:
- Verify the contractor’s experience and credentials
- Confirm insurance and licensing
- Understand the scope and timeline of the project
- Ensure compliance with building codes and safety standards
- Avoid hidden costs or communication breakdowns
Let’s dive into the must-ask questions and how each one plays a role in a successful roofing project.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured for Commercial Roofing?
Always verify that the contractor holds the proper licenses required to perform commercial roofing in your state. Ask for proof of:
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation insurance
- State or local licenses specific to commercial roofing
Working with an unlicensed roofer can lead to liability issues and may void your building insurance coverage. The U.S. Small Business Administration recommends checking contractor credentials as part of due diligence.
Follow-up Tips:
- Request a certificate of insurance
- Ask if their license is active and covers the scope of work you need
2. What Experience Do You Have with Commercial Roofs?
Not all roofing companies specialize in commercial projects. Ask specifically about their experience with:
- Flat or low-slope roofs
- Materials like TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen, or metal
- Large-scale or multi-structure facilities
This ensures the roofer understands the complexities of commercial buildings and can recommend the best solutions for your property.
Follow-up Tips:
- Ask for a portfolio or list of completed projects
- Inquire about clients in similar industries or buildings
3. Can You Provide References or Case Studies?
Reputable commercial roofers should be able to provide references from past clients. This gives you insight into their work ethic, timeliness, communication, and final results.
Follow-up Tips:
- Contact references directly and ask about their experience
- Ask if the job was completed on time and within budget
- See if there were any post-installation issues and how they were handled
4. What Roofing System Do You Recommend and Why?
There’s no one-size-fits-all roofing solution for commercial buildings. The best roofing material depends on factors like:
- Building size and use
- Climate
- Budget
- Energy efficiency goals
Asking what questions to ask a commercial roofer includes discussing material options like:
- TPO roofing: Cost-effective and energy efficient
- EPDM roofing: Durable rubber membrane for flat roofs
- Modified bitumen: Great for flexibility and impact resistance
- Metal roofing: Long lifespan and excellent durability
The contractor should explain their recommendation clearly, along with the pros and cons.
Helpful Insight:
The Whole Building Design Guide provides information on how to select the right roofing system based on a building’s purpose and environmental factors.
5. What Is the Timeline for Completion?
Commercial roofing can disrupt daily operations, so it’s critical to understand the project timeline. Ask:
- How long the job will take from start to finish
- Whether weather may delay progress
- What working hours will be scheduled
Follow-up Tips:
- Request a written project schedule
- Clarify whether the contractor works weekends or evenings
- Ask how they handle unexpected delays
6. How Will You Minimize Business Disruptions?
A professional commercial roofer will have strategies in place to reduce disruptions. This is especially important for businesses that operate during normal business hours.
Ask if they:
- Use noise-minimizing tools
- Maintain clear paths for employees and customers
- Keep debris and equipment contained and out of workspaces
Their approach to workplace safety and coordination can significantly impact your business operations during the roofing process.
7. Do You Handle Permits and Code Compliance?
Commercial roofs must meet strict local building codes. A qualified contractor should manage all necessary permits and ensure that your new roof is compliant with Florida’s state regulations.
Follow-up Tips:
- Ask what permits are required and whether they’ll obtain them
- Inquire about how they stay updated on building code changes
8. What Warranty Do You Offer?
Warranties are essential for protecting your investment. Ask about:
- Workmanship warranty: Covers installation errors
- Manufacturer’s warranty: Covers materials
A strong warranty gives peace of mind and reflects a contractor’s confidence in their work.
Follow-up Tips:
- Clarify the warranty length and what voids it
- Ask for warranty documentation in writing
9. What Is the Total Cost—and What’s Included?
Transparent pricing is crucial. Make sure you get a detailed written estimate that includes:
- Labor
- Materials
- Cleanup and disposal
- Permit fees
- Potential extra charges
Avoid vague quotes or contractors who are reluctant to break down costs. This is one of the most critical questions for a commercial roofer—and one of the best ways to prevent surprise charges.
10. How Do You Handle Post-Installation Follow-Up or Repairs?
Even the best roofs may need small adjustments or touch-ups after installation. Ask:
- How they handle follow-up repairs
- Whether they offer maintenance plans
- Who to contact for service after the project is complete
A dependable contractor will continue to support you after the job is done.
11. Who Will Be on Site, and How Will Communication Work?
Knowing who is responsible for the project day-to-day makes communication easier and more efficient. Ask who the site supervisor is and how progress will be reported.
Follow-up Tips:
- Ask for contact info for the project manager
- Clarify how frequently you’ll receive updates
Ask with Confidence, Hire with Clarity
Knowing what questions to ask a commercial roofer ensures you’re hiring a professional who will complete the job safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. Don’t hesitate to get specific, request documentation, or ask for clarification—your building, budget, and peace of mind depend on it.
At AGU Roofing & Solar, we’re proud to serve businesses across Central Florida with top-tier commercial roofing services. Our team is licensed, insured, and experienced in all major commercial roofing systems. We’re happy to answer your questions and provide a detailed, no-pressure estimate tailored to your needs.
Get a free inspection now and let’s discuss your commercial roofing project with complete transparency and professionalism.
