Hiring the right contractor for your commercial roofing project is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a property owner or facility manager. The stakes are high—a commercial roof protects your business, inventory, equipment, and people. To ensure your investment is well-protected and long-lasting, it’s essential to ask the right questions before signing a contract.
At Shelter Roofing & Solar, we’ve seen firsthand how well-informed clients make better decisions. Asking smart, specific questions helps you gauge a contractor’s experience, reliability, and ability to meet the unique demands of a commercial roofing job. In this guide, we’ll cover the most important questions to ask your commercial roof contractor so you can move forward with confidence.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters
Not all commercial roofing contractors are created equal. Some specialize in residential work and only take on commercial projects occasionally. Others may not be familiar with the building codes and regulations for large-scale roofing systems.
Commercial roofing is complex—there are more moving parts, greater risks, and stricter performance requirements than in residential jobs. That’s why choosing an experienced, transparent, and well-equipped contractor is key to a successful project.
Asking detailed questions allows you to:
- Verify the contractor’s credentials
- Understand the project timeline and scope
- Protect your investment with warranties and guarantees
- Avoid costly surprises or miscommunication
Let’s dive into the top questions to ask your commercial roof contractor before work begins.
1. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured for Commercial Roofing?
This should be your first and non-negotiable question. A qualified commercial roofing contractor should carry:
- A valid contractor’s license
- Liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation insurance
- A bond, in some cases, for added financial protection
Without proper licensing and insurance, you risk being held liable for accidents or damages that occur during the project. You can verify a contractor’s license through your state’s contractor licensing board. For California, visit the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).
2. What Types of Commercial Roofing Systems Do You Specialize In?
Commercial buildings can have flat roofs, low-slope roofs, metal panels, TPO membranes, modified bitumen, or built-up systems. Not all contractors are experienced with every material or system.
Ask about their expertise in the specific type of roof you have—or want. For example:
- Do they install and repair TPO or EPDM?
- Are they familiar with cool roofing systems for energy efficiency?
- Can they integrate solar roofing into your commercial roof system?
The more experience they have with your preferred system, the smoother the installation and long-term performance will be.
3. Can You Provide References for Similar Commercial Projects?
Ask for a list of recent commercial clients and follow up. This gives you insight into their track record, customer service, and professionalism.
Questions to ask their previous clients:
- Did the contractor stay on schedule and within budget?
- How was the communication during the project?
- Were there any issues with permits, inspections, or materials?
- Would they hire this contractor again?
Also, look for online reviews and testimonials to round out your research.
4. How Do You Handle Permits and Code Compliance?
Commercial roofing must comply with local building codes, energy regulations, and fire safety standards. Ask your contractor how they handle:
- Permit applications
- Building code compliance
- Inspections during and after the job
They should be knowledgeable about local requirements and obtain all necessary documentation before starting work. In California, for example, the California Energy Commission has Title 24 standards that affect roof insulation and reflectivity.
5. What Is the Timeline for the Project?
Time is money—especially in commercial operations. Ask for a detailed project timeline, including:
- Estimated start and end dates
- Milestones and inspection phases
- Contingency plans for weather or material delays
Make sure this timeline is included in your contract. Clear expectations from day one help avoid miscommunication and scheduling conflicts.
6. What Warranties Do You Offer on Materials and Labor?
You want long-term protection for your investment. Ask your contractor to explain both:
- Manufacturer’s warranties – Coverage on the roofing materials (often 15–30 years)
- Workmanship warranties – Coverage on the quality of the contractor’s installation (typically 1–10 years)
Be sure you understand the conditions and maintenance requirements needed to keep warranties valid. A reputable contractor will gladly walk you through the details.
7. How Will You Minimize Disruption to My Business?
Commercial roofing projects can impact parking, employee access, or normal business operations. Ask your contractor how they plan to:
- Stage materials and equipment
- Ensure jobsite cleanliness and safety
- Limit noise and access issues
- Work during business hours or schedule after-hours work if needed
The best contractors offer flexible scheduling and clear communication to help your business run smoothly during construction.
8. What Safety Measures Do You Have in Place?
Safety is crucial on any jobsite, but especially on commercial properties where staff or customers may be nearby. Ask about:
- OSHA compliance and training
- Use of safety equipment like harnesses and fall protection
- On-site safety supervisor
- Protocols for emergencies or injuries
According to OSHA, roofing is one of the most dangerous construction activities—your contractor must prioritize worker safety and liability management.
9. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues or Repairs?
Even with the best planning, surprises can happen—hidden damage, material shortages, or structural issues. Ask your contractor:
- How they’ll communicate unexpected changes
- What the process is for change orders
- How additional costs will be approved and documented
Transparency and communication are critical for avoiding conflict and keeping the project on track.
10. Do You Offer Maintenance Plans After Installation?
A good commercial roof is built to last—but it still needs regular inspections and care. Ask if your contractor provides:
- Annual or biannual maintenance programs
- Inspection reports with photos
- Preventative care to catch issues early
- Emergency repair services
Regular maintenance can significantly extend your roof’s lifespan and protect your warranty. Look for a contractor who stays invested in your roof long after the installation is complete.
Ask the Right Questions—Hire the Right Team
By asking these essential questions to your commercial roof contractor, you protect your building, your budget, and your peace of mind. The right contractor won’t hesitate to answer your questions thoroughly—and will appreciate that you’re doing your due diligence.
At Shelter Roofing & Solar, we bring over 40 years of commercial roofing experience to every project. Whether you’re installing a new flat roof, upgrading to an energy-efficient system, or integrating solar technology, our team is ready to deliver high-quality work on time and on budget.
Start Your Commercial Roofing Project with Confidence
If you’re planning a commercial roofing project, we’re ready to help. We’re happy to answer all your questions, walk you through the process, and deliver a roof that’s built to last.
Get a free estimate now and find out why Shelter Roofing & Solar is the trusted name for commercial roofing solutions in Southern California.
