9 Questions Churches Should Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Before signing a roofing contract, Georgia churches should ask about HAAG certification, labor warranties, crew sourcing, supplement handling, and insurance documentation. The wrong contractor can delay your ministry’s insurance claim, void warranty protections, and leave you with substandard work. Here are nine specific questions that separate a reliable roofer from one that will cost you more in the long run.

1. Do you write your own supplements, or do you use a third-party estimating company?

This gives insight into whether the contractor is more focused on completing your job efficiently or on maximizing every line item in an insurance estimate. A company that handles its own supplements often moves more quickly and is focused on delivering real results—not just paperwork.

2. Will a supervisor be on-site during all work?

Having a knowledgeable rep on-site ensures quality control and fast problem resolution. If anything goes wrong mid-project, you want someone present to make decisions and keep things on track.

3. Will a HAAG-certified inspector meet the adjuster at our property?

HAAG certification is the gold standard in roof damage inspection. Insurance companies recognize HAAG-certified inspectors as experts. If your contractor doesn’t use one, they may not fully understand what constitutes claim-worthy damage.

4. How many roofing projects do you complete each month, and how do you source your crews?

Smaller roofing companies (5 or fewer jobs per month) may rely on whichever crew is available—often with inconsistent quality. Contractors who complete multiple jobs per week usually work with dedicated crews, hold them to consistent standards, and deliver more professional results.

5. Do you know what an NTS is?

NTS stands for “Name That Shingle”—a process used to match shingles for repairs or replacements. If a contractor isn’t familiar with it, they may not be equipped to challenge low insurance payouts or request proper materials.

6. What is your labor warranty?

Many companies offer only a 1- or 2-year labor warranty. That’s not enough for something as critical as a roof. Look for a contractor offering at least a 10-year labor warranty to show confidence in their workmanship.

7. How do you install flashing around brick and mortar?

This is a detail that separates professionals from amateurs. If their answer involves “caulk and nails,” walk away. Proper flashing is custom-bent on site and installed into the brick—not just glued on. It’s labor-intensive but essential to long-term performance.

8. Will we receive a manufacturer’s warranty?

Manufacturer warranties only apply when the entire roofing system—from shingles to underlayment—is sourced from a single brand (like GAF or CertainTeed). If a contractor mixes and matches components to save money, you lose out on those valuable warranties.

9. When is payment due?

Be cautious of any contractor who asks for money upfront. Reputable roofing companies don’t need a deposit before work begins. If a company demands early payment, it may be a red flag for financial instability.

Final Thoughts

Churches and schools are entrusted with more than just buildings—they protect people, purpose, and community. When the time comes to repair or replace a roof, especially after storm damage or an insurance claim, making an informed decision is critical. The questions outlined above aren’t just about pricing or materials—they’re about accountability, quality, and long-term confidence.

By taking the time to thoroughly vet your contractor, you help ensure that the work done on your property meets high standards and truly supports your mission. A careful approach now can prevent costly repairs, insurance headaches, and safety issues down the line.

Whether you’re in the early planning stages or responding to unexpected damage, these questions can serve as a helpful guide as you move forward with confidence. And before the next storm hits, make sure your church property insurance is built to cover a full roof replacement at replacement cost — not just a depreciated payout.