8 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer for Your Re-Roof Project

Replacing your roof is one of the largest maintenance investments you'll make as a homeowner. While it can be tempting to compare quotes based purely on price, asking the right questions before signing a contract can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your new roof is installed correctly.

Here are eight important questions we recommend asking before hiring a roofing contractor.

1. Do You Hold a QBCC Roof & Wall Cladding Licence?

In Queensland, metal roofing work should be completed by a contractor who holds the appropriate Roof & Wall Cladding licence.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that metal roofing work is no longer covered under a standard Plumbing & Drainage licence and requires a specific Roof & Wall Cladding licence.

Don't be afraid to ask for your contractor's licence number and verify it through the QBCC website.

2. Will the Re-Roof Be Certified?

Most re-roof projects require building approval and certification.

Ask your contractor:

• Who will be arranging the building certifier?

• Is certification included in the quote?

• Will you receive the final certification documents once the project is complete?

These documents can be important for insurance purposes, future property sales, and demonstrating that the work was completed compliantly.

3. Are You Fully Insured?

Before work begins, ensure your roofing contractor has the appropriate insurances in place.

This may include:

• Public Liability Insurance

• Workers Compensation Insurance

• QBCC Home Warranty Insurance (where applicable)

A reputable contractor should have no issue providing evidence of insurance coverage if requested.

4. What Deposit Is Required?

Be cautious of contractors requesting large upfront payments before work has commenced.

As a general guide, residential building contracts over $20,000 are typically limited to a maximum 5% deposit.

Your contractor should be able to clearly explain their deposit requirements, payment schedule, and what each payment covers.

5. What Is Included in the Quote?

Not all roofing quotes include the same scope of work.

Ask whether the quote includes:

• Removal and disposal of the existing roof

• Flashings

• Insulation blanket

• Gutters and downpipes (if required)

• Safety equipment

• Certification costs

• Site clean-up

A detailed quote helps avoid unexpected variations later.

6. What Materials Will Be Used?

Ask what roofing products are being supplied and installed.

This may include:

• Roofing profile

• Material thickness

• Manufacturer

• Colour selection

• Fixings and flashings

Quality materials play a significant role in the longevity and performance of your new roof.

7. Who Will Actually Be Completing the Work?

The person providing the quote is not always the person completing the work.

Ask:

• Will the licensed contractor be involved throughout the project?

• Are subcontractors being used?

• Who will be supervising the installation?

Knowing who will be working on your home can provide peace of mind and help ensure quality control.

8. Will the Existing Roof Structure Be Inspected?

A re-roof provides an excellent opportunity to inspect the roof structure beneath the sheeting.

Issues such as damaged battens, corrosion, movement, or previous repairs can often be identified once the existing roof is removed.

Addressing these issues during the re-roof process can help prevent future problems and protect your investment.

Final Thoughts

A quality re-roof should provide decades of protection for your home. Taking the time to ask the right questions before choosing a contractor can help ensure the project runs smoothly and the finished result meets your expectations.

If you're considering a re-roof in Hervey Bay, Urangan, Point Vernon, Craignish, Torquay, Pialba, Wondunna, Sunshine Acres, River Heads, Dundowran, Toogoom, Maryborough or the wider Fraser Coast region, our team is always happy to provide honest advice about your options.

CNL Plumbing & Drainage

Local. Reliable. Done Right.