Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Toronto Roof Repair Contractor
Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, protecting you from harsh weather and keeping your property safe. When it comes to repairs, you need a reliable and skilled roofing contractor to do the job right. But how do you find the right one?
Before signing any contract, ask these essential questions to ensure you’re hiring the best Toronto roof repair contractor for the job.
1. Are You a Licensed Roofing Contractor in Toronto?
A professional roofing contractor must be licensed to operate in Toronto. A license ensures they follow local building codes and safety regulations. Ask for proof of licensing and verify it with the Ontario College of Trades or a relevant municipal authority.
✅ Pro Tip: Unlicensed contractors may offer lower prices, but they can put you at risk of poor workmanship and potential legal issues.
2. Do You Have Insurance? (Liability & WSIB Coverage)
A reputable contractor should have:
- General liability insurance to cover property damage.
- Worker’s Compensation (WSIB) insurance to protect workers.
✅ Always ask for proof of insurance. If a worker gets injured on your property and the contractor is uninsured, you could be liable for medical expenses.
3. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience matters! A roofing contractor with 10+ years of experience has handled various roof problems and knows how to fix them efficiently.
✅ Ask:
- How many roofs have you repaired in Toronto?
- Can you provide examples of past projects?
4. Do You Provide a Written Estimate?
A detailed written estimate should include:
✔️ Material costs
✔️ Labor costs
✔️ Project timeline
✔️ Any additional charges
✅ Avoid vague or verbal estimates. A well-documented contract protects you from hidden fees or unexpected costs.
5. Do You Offer a Workmanship Warranty?
A reliable roofing contractor stands behind their work with a warranty on labor and materials.
✅ Ask:
- How long is the warranty? (Typically 5–10 years)
- What does it cover? (Leaks, material defects, etc.)
6. Can You Provide References from Past Clients?
A trustworthy contractor will happily provide references. Contact previous clients and ask about:
✔️ Quality of work
✔️ Timeliness
✔️ Overall experience
✅ You can also check Google Reviews, BBB ratings, and testimonials.
7. Do You Specialize in Residential or Commercial Roofing?
Not all roof repair contractors handle both residential and commercial roofing. If you have a flat roof, metal roof, or shingles, ensure the contractor has expertise in that specific area.
✅ Ask for project photos similar to your roof type.
8. How Will You Protect My Property During Repairs?
Roof repairs can be messy. A professional roofer should:
- Use tarps to cover landscaping
- Clean up debris daily
- Use magnetic nail finders to collect stray nails
✅ A contractor who values property protection shows attention to detail and professionalism.
9. What Materials Will You Use for My Roof Repair?
Quality materials ensure durability. Ask:
✔️ Which brands do you use?
✔️ Are the materials energy-efficient?
✔️ Do they have a manufacturer’s warranty?
✅ High-quality materials extend the lifespan of your roof.
10. How Long Will the Roof Repair Take?
Timeframes vary depending on the extent of the damage. A minor repair may take a few hours, while major repairs can take several days.
✅ A realistic timeline prevents unnecessary delays.
11. How Will You Handle Unexpected Issues?
Sometimes, once work begins, hidden problems like rotting wood or mold appear.
✅ Ask how the contractor will communicate and address additional costs. A transparent contractor will consult you before proceeding with extra work.
12. What is the Payment Schedule?
Never pay the full amount upfront!
✅ Typical payment structure:
- Deposit (10-20%) to secure the project
- Milestone payments based on progress
- Final payment after completion & inspection
🚫 Avoid contractors who demand full payment before starting work.
13. Will You Obtain the Necessary Permits?
Major roof repairs often require permits from the City of Toronto. A professional roof repair contractor should handle the permit process for you.
✅ If they ask you to pull the permit, it’s a red flag!
14. Do You Subcontract Any Work?
Some companies outsource roofing jobs to subcontractors. If so, ask:
✔️ Who are they?
✔️ Are they licensed & insured?
✔️ Who supervises their work?
✅ Always ensure subcontractors meet the same standards as the main contractor.
15. How Do You Ensure Safety on the Job?
Roofing is dangerous work. A professional roof repair contractor follows strict safety protocols such as:
- Wearing harnesses
- Using proper scaffolding
- Adhering to Ontario’s workplace safety laws
✅ Safety-conscious contractors reduce liability risks.
16. What Sets You Apart from Other Toronto Roofing Contractors?
This is your chance to gauge their unique selling points. Look for:
✔️ Industry certifications (e.g., CertainTeed, GAF, Owens Corning)
✔️ Awards or recognitions
✔️ Exceptional warranties
✅ A confident Toronto roof repair contractor will clearly explain why they’re the best choice.
17. How Will You Handle Customer Complaints?
Even the best contractors face issues. A reputable company will:
✔️ Address concerns promptly
✔️ Offer a clear resolution plan
✔️ Have a customer service team
✅ Read online reviews to see how they handle disputes.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Toronto Roof Repair Contractor
Hiring the right Toronto roof repair contractor requires thorough research and asking the right questions. A professional, licensed, and insured roofer ensures top-quality repairs and peace of mind.
🚀 Need a trusted roofing expert? Get a free estimate from Toronto Roofer, a top-rated Toronto roofing repair contractor today at (647) 847-8826!
Protect your home by hiring the right roofing contractor! Ask these critical questions before making your decision. Need expert roof repair in Toronto? Contact us today for a free estimate!
