How to Choose the Best Roofing Contractor for Your Home
Choosing the right roofing contractor is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make. Your roof protects your family, belongings, and the structural integrity of your home—so you want a contractor you can trust to do the job right. But with so many options available in West Michigan, how do you find the best fit?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for in a roofing contractor and how to make a confident, informed decision for your next roofing project.
1. Look for Local Experience and Reputation
One of the first things to look for is whether the contractor is local. A West Michigan-based roofer will be familiar with the region’s unique climate challenges—including lake-effect snow, high winds, and fluctuating temperatures.
Why Local Matters:
- Local contractors rely on positive word of mouth and long-term community relationships.
- They’ll be more responsive if you need follow-up service or future repairs.
- They understand local building codes and permit requirements.
How to Verify:
- Ask for a physical office address and local phone number.
- Check online reviews from West Michigan homeowners on Google, Facebook, or the Better Business Bureau.
- Ask if they’ve done projects in your specific area (e.g., Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo).
2. Ensure Proper Licensing and Insurance
A reputable roofing contractor should be fully licensed to operate in the state of Michigan and carry adequate insurance coverage.
What to Ask For:
- Proof of state licensing
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
Why This Matters:
- Licensing confirms that the contractor meets industry standards.
- Insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or property damage during the project.
Never work with a contractor who can’t or won’t provide these documents.
3. Evaluate Their Experience and Specialization
Roofing is a highly specialized field, and experience matters. Ask how long the contractor has been in business and whether they have expertise with the type of roofing material you need.
Key Questions to Ask:
- How many years have you been in the roofing business?
- Do you specialize in asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or other materials?
- Have you worked on homes like mine before?
A contractor with years of proven experience in West Michigan’s climate will know how to handle seasonal challenges and ensure a long-lasting installation.
4. Check Manufacturer Certifications
Top roofing material manufacturers (like GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed) offer certifications to contractors who meet strict installation and service standards.
Benefits of Working with a Certified Roofing Contractor:
- Access to enhanced manufacturer warranties
- Confidence that the contractor follows manufacturer-recommended installation practices
- Assurance of quality materials and workmanship
What to Look For:
- GAF Master Elite Contractor
- Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
- CertainTeed ShingleMaster
These credentials demonstrate commitment to quality and ongoing training.
5. Get Multiple Estimates—but Don’t Choose Based on Price Alone
It’s a good idea to get quotes from 2–3 contractors so you can compare pricing, timelines, and services. However, beware of choosing the lowest bid without understanding what’s included.
Things to Compare in Each Estimate:
- Material types and brands
- Labor costs
- Scope of work (tear-off vs. overlay, underlayment, flashing, ventilation)
- Warranties offered
- Cleanup and disposal procedures
Red Flags:
- Extremely low bids that seem too good to be true
- Vague or incomplete contracts
- High-pressure sales tactics
A professional contractor will provide a detailed, written proposal that clearly outlines what you’re paying for.
“Hiring a roofing contractor isn’t just about finding someone to nail down shingles—it’s about trusting someone with your home’s protection and value. The right contractor will offer experience, professionalism, transparency, and a commitment to quality work.”
6. Ask About Warranties—And Understand Them
A good roofing contractor should offer both manufacturer warranties (on materials) and workmanship warranties (on labor).
Questions to Ask:
- What is the length of the workmanship warranty?
- What does it cover and exclude?
- Is the warranty transferable if I sell my home?
In West Michigan’s weather conditions, warranties can offer peace of mind by covering unexpected issues down the line.
7. Read Reviews and Ask for References
Online reviews and testimonials can give you insight into the contractor’s reliability, communication, and work quality. But don’t stop there—ask the contractor directly for references.
What to Do:
- Read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view.
- Look for patterns in customer feedback (e.g., “great communication,” “clean job site”).
- Ask for 2–3 references from recent clients and follow up with them.
Questions for References:
- Was the project completed on time and on budget?
- Were there any issues, and how were they handled?
- Would you hire this contractor again?
8. Look for Strong Communication and Professionalism
From your first call or email, the contractor should be responsive, courteous, and clear. Good communication is essential for managing expectations and preventing misunderstandings.
What to Expect:
- Prompt replies to phone calls or messages
- Clear, written estimates and contracts
- Updates during the project
- Respectful, professional interactions from the whole crew
9. Ask About Jobsite Safety and Clean-Up
Roofing is a messy, dangerous job. A professional contractor will take safety seriously and ensure your property is protected throughout the process.
Key Considerations:
- Will they protect landscaping and driveways?
- How will they handle nails and debris?
- Do they use magnetic tools for cleanup?
After the job is done, the only sign they were there should be your beautiful new roof.
10. Prioritize Contractors Who Stand Behind Their Work
The best roofing contractors are confident in their workmanship and stand behind it. If a problem arises after the project is done, they’ll come back to make it right.
Signs of a Contractor Who Cares:
- Offers a written warranty
- Doesn’t require full payment upfront
- Checks in after project completion
- Has a long-standing presence in the West Michigan community
FAQ: Hiring a Roofing Contractor
A professional contractor can inspect your roof and advise you based on the age, extent of damage, and material condition.
Not necessarily, but it’s helpful to be available for questions. Roofing can be noisy, so consider making arrangements if you’re working from home.
Most asphalt shingle roofs take 1–3 days to complete, depending on the size and weather conditions.
Spring through fall are ideal. Schedule early to avoid peak busy seasons.
Roofing Company in West Michigan
Hiring a roofing contractor isn’t just about finding someone to nail down shingles—it’s about trusting someone with your home’s protection and value. The right contractor will offer experience, professionalism, transparency, and a commitment to quality work.
By following the tips above, you can confidently choose a roofing contractor who meets your needs and delivers results you’ll be proud of. If you’re looking for a dependable roofing team in West Michigan, contact Legend Roofing at (616) 600-1130. We’re proud to serve our neighbors with honesty, integrity, and craftsmanship that stands the test of time.
