How to Choose a Roofer in Newark, Ohio (10 Questions to Ask)

The exact questions Licking County homeowners should ask before hiring a roofer — and the red flags that should send you somewhere else.

Roofing is one of the most frequently complained-about home service categories in Ohio. Most of those complaints are avoidable if you ask the right ten questions before signing anything.

The 10 questions

1. Are you fully insured for both general liability and workers' comp? (Ask for the certificate.)
2. Are you based in Licking County, or are you a storm-chaser passing through?
3. Do you use your own crews or subcontract the work?
4. What workmanship warranty do you offer in writing?
5. What manufacturer are you certified by?
6. Will you pull the permit, or are you asking me to?
7. Can you give me three local references from the last 90 days?
8. How do you handle change orders if you find rotten decking?
9. Do you require a deposit before materials are delivered?
10. What does your written estimate include line-by-line?

Red flags to walk away from

• Out-of-state plates and a clipboard going door-to-door after a storm
• Refusal to provide an insurance certificate
• Pressure to sign "today only" pricing
• Asking for more than 25% deposit before materials arrive
• No physical local address on the estimate