Why Hiring the Right Roofing Contractor in Florida Is Essential
Replacing or repairing your roof is one of the most important home improvement decisions you’ll make. With Florida’s unpredictable weather, heavy rain, scorching sun, high humidity, and hurricane threats, your roofing system must not only be durable but installed to meet local building codes and wind-resistance standards.
But not all roofing contractors are created equal. The key to protecting your home and budget is asking the right questions before signing any contract. This comprehensive guide outlines the most important topics to discuss with potential roofing contractors, helping you make a confident and informed decision that ensures safety, value, and long-term performance.
Are You Properly Licensed to Work in Florida?
Before you even consider a contractor for your roofing project, confirm they are licensed to work in the state of Florida. Florida law requires roofing contractors to hold a license through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). A valid license proves that the contractor has passed required exams, understands building codes, and is legally allowed to operate.
When speaking with a potential roofer:
- Ask for their full license number.
- Verify it with the DBPR to ensure it’s active and not under disciplinary review.
- Confirm the license is specific to roofing, not general contracting.
Hiring an unlicensed contractor can lead to fines, insurance complications, or poorly installed roofs that may not meet code.
Do You Have Active General Liability Insurance and Workers’ Compensation?
A trustworthy roofing contractor in Florida should carry both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. These policies protect you if something goes wrong on the job site. Roofing is hazardous work, and injuries or property damage can result in costly legal battles, unless the contractor is properly insured.
Be sure to:
- Request physical or digital proof of coverage.
- Check the policy expiration dates.
- Make sure the policies cover the contractor’s employees (not just the business owner).
Avoid working with any roofer who hesitates to share this documentation. Without proper insurance, you may be held financially responsible for injuries or damage on your property.
How Long Have You Been Operating in Florida?
While years in business don’t automatically guarantee quality, they do reflect experience and stability. Contractors with at least five years of roofing experience in Florida are more likely to be familiar with:
- Local building codes and permitting requirements
- Common roofing challenges in humid and storm-prone climates
- Preferred materials for longevity under UV and wind exposure
Ask whether the business is locally owned and operated, and whether their experience includes the type of roofing system you plan to install. Florida’s climate is not forgiving to subpar installations, and an experienced roofer will know how to ensure durability and compliance.
Can You Share Recent References or Completed Projects in My Area?
A reputable roofing contractor should be happy to provide local references from past clients. Speaking to previous customers allows you to learn about:
- Communication and professionalism
- Project timelines and jobsite cleanliness
- How well the roof has held up since installation
Ask for at least three references from homeowners within your city or county. Better yet, request photos of recent projects or ask if any nearby clients are open to showing their completed roof.
Take note of any hesitation. A trustworthy roofer will be proud to show their work.
What Roofing Materials and Systems Do You Specialize In?
Every roof type has unique installation requirements. From asphalt shingles to metal roofing and tile systems, not all contractors are qualified for every material. A Florida roofing contractor should be able to:
- Recommend materials suited to high humidity and hurricane-prone areas
- Explain the pros and cons of each system in detail
- Show certifications from manufacturers for installation of specific materials
Specialization also reflects product knowledge and technical expertise, which are crucial for a roof that’s built to last under Florida’s environmental stressors.
Will You Handle the Permitting Process?
Florida requires permits for virtually all roof replacements or major repairs. If your contractor tells you to pull the permit yourself or suggests skipping it to save money, that’s a red flag.
Ask:
- Will you pull the required permits?
- How do you schedule inspections?
- What local regulations will apply to my specific roofing project?
Permitting ensures the roof meets state and municipal codes. Skipping this step can result in failed inspections, fines, or even forced removal of the roof.
What Is Included in the Written Estimate?
A professional roofing contractor should provide a detailed, written estimate that outlines:
- Roofing materials and quantities
- Labor charges
- Tear-off and disposal costs
- Permit fees
- Any additional charges (e.g., ventilation, flashing, decking repairs)
Avoid vague quotes that only mention a lump sum. A detailed estimate helps you compare apples-to-apples between multiple contractors and protects you from unexpected charges after the work begins.
Ask whether the estimate includes taxes and what might cause price changes during the project.
What Types of Warranties Do You Offer?
There are two key warranties to ask about:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty – This covers defects in roofing materials and typically lasts between 20 and 50 years.
- Workmanship Warranty – This covers installation errors and varies by contractor.
Ask for written copies of both warranties and find out:
- Who honors the warranty (the roofer or the manufacturer)?
- What voids the warranty (e.g., improper maintenance)?
- Whether warranties are transferable if you sell your home
A strong warranty gives you peace of mind and reflects confidence in workmanship.
Who Will Supervise the Project?
On roofing jobs, crews often rotate or change depending on the phase of work. It’s essential to know who’s in charge and how communication will be handled.
Ask:
- Who is the on-site supervisor or project manager?
- How will I receive updates (text, email, phone)?
- Who do I contact if I have concerns or questions during the job?
Having a consistent point of contact ensures smoother communication and accountability throughout the roofing process.
What Is the Expected Timeline for the Project?
Weather permitting, most roof replacements can be completed in 1–3 days. However, scheduling delays or extended jobs do occur.
Ask your contractor:
- When can you start?
- How long will the job take from start to finish?
- What happens if it rains mid-project?
- How will you protect my home if the roof is exposed?
Setting realistic expectations prevents frustration and helps you plan accordingly.
Do You Subcontract Any Part of the Work?
Some roofing companies subcontract part, or all, of their labor. This isn’t necessarily a red flag, but it does require extra caution.
If subcontractors are involved, ask:
- Are they licensed and insured?
- How do you vet their experience and quality?
- Will your company still oversee and inspect the work?
Ultimately, the main contractor should remain responsible for the job and stand behind the finished roof.
How Will You Protect My Property?
Roofing is a messy job. Shingles, nails, and debris can damage your landscaping, windows, or driveway.
Ask how the contractor protects your property during and after the job:
- Will tarps be used to shield plants and patios?
- Will old roofing materials be hauled away daily?
- How do you check for stray nails?
A good contractor will leave your home clean and damage-free, minimizing the disruption to your daily life.
How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues?
During a roof tear-off, issues like wood rot, mold, or damaged flashing may be uncovered. Ask how the contractor will handle surprises:
- Will I be notified before extra work begins?
- Will you document issues with photos?
- How are change orders and additional costs handled?
Clear communication ensures you won’t be blindsided by extra charges you didn’t authorize.
Do You Offer Emergency Repairs or Storm Damage Services?
Florida homeowners face sudden roofing emergencies due to hurricanes, hailstorms, or high winds. Ask if the contractor provides:
- 24/7 emergency tarping or patching
- Storm damage inspections
- Assistance with insurance claims
Having a trusted roofer on call during hurricane season is a major advantage.
Comparison Chart: What to Ask Roofing Contractors in Florida
| Question | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
| Are you licensed in Florida? | Ensures legal operation and code compliance | DBPR-certified roofing license |
| Do you carry insurance? | Protects you financially if accidents occur | Active liability and workers’ comp policies |
| Years of experience? | Reflects ability to handle Florida’s roofing challenges | 5+ years local experience |
| References? | Confirms work quality and customer satisfaction | Positive reviews from Florida clients |
| Roofing system specialization? | Ensures expertise with your roofing material | Certified in shingles, metal, or tile |
| Permitting handled? | Avoids legal trouble and delays | Yes, contractor pulls all permits |
| Estimate details? | Helps you avoid surprise fees | Line-item quote with labor, materials, fees |
| Warranties? | Protects your investment over time | Manufacturer + labor coverage |
| Project supervision? | Ensures consistent communication and oversight | Dedicated manager or supervisor onsite |
| Project timeline? | Keeps project on track and reduces inconvenience | Clear schedule with weather backup plan |
| Subcontractors? | Affects work quality and accountability | Vetted and insured subcontractors |
| Property protection? | Prevents mess and landscape damage | Tarps, cleanup, and magnet nail sweeps |
| Payment terms? | Prevents financial risk and ensures fairness | Deposit, progress, and final payment terms |
| Unexpected issues? | Keeps costs transparent and avoids surprises | Change orders approved by you in writing |
| Emergency services? | Critical during hurricane or storm seasons | Yes, including fast tarp and claim help |
We’re Only One Call Away
At Big G Roofing & More, Inc., we believe your roofing project should be safe, smooth, and stress-free. Our licensed and insured team brings years of Florida-focused experience to every job, from emergency repairs to full roof replacements. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or planning a new roof, we deliver reliable service, transparent pricing, and lasting results.We proudly serve Florida homeowners from our location at 4005 NW 135th St, Opa-locka, FL 33054, United States. Have questions or need a quote? Give us a call at +1 305-627-3909 or send an email to office@biggroofing.com. We’re only one call away, ready to protect what matters most.