Roofer vetting checklist

Our downloadable checklist is a simple homeowner tool for screening metal roofing contractors before you sign anything or pay a deposit. It is made for real-world use: phone calls, in-home estimates, and side-by-side comparison.

It helps you keep track of the details that often get missed, like the metal type, gauge, coating, scope of work, warranty terms, permits, cleanup, and payment schedule. Those details matter because two estimates can look close in price but cover very different work.

SeamRidge is not a roofer or installer. We do not build roofs or tell you what your structure needs. We help homeowners understand the process and get matched, at no cost, with licensed, insured, bonded metal roofers. If you want help finding companies to interview, you can get matched for free.

If you want a deeper guide to screening contractors, see our metal roofer vetting guide.

Use the checklist to confirm the basics yourself. Do not rely on a sales pitch.

• License: Ask for the contractor's license number if your state or city requires one. Verify it yourself.
• Insurance: Ask for proof of liability and workers' comp coverage. Check that it is current.
• Bonded status: If they say they are bonded, ask for details and confirm what that bond actually covers.
• Metal roofing experience: Ask how often they install the specific system you want, such as standing seam or metal shingles.
• Written scope: Make sure the estimate clearly lists tear-off, underlayment, flashing, trim, ventilation work if included, fasteners, panel profile, gauge, coating, and cleanup.
• Warranty terms: Get both manufacturer and workmanship warranty details in writing. Read the limits and exclusions.
• Permits and code: Ask who pulls permits and who is responsible for local code compliance. Follow local permit rules.
• Payment terms: Be careful with large deposits, vague change-order language, or pressure to sign the same day.

A good roofer should be willing to answer direct questions in plain language. If answers stay vague, that is useful information.

The smartest way to use this tool is to compare at least 2-3 roofers on the same job.

1. Start with the same project description. Tell each roofer the same basic facts about your home and what roof style you want.
2. Ask each one to write down the exact system. That means panel or shingle type, gauge, finish or coating, underlayment, trim, and whether tear-off is included.
3. Check what is missing. A lower number is not always cheaper if key items were left out.
4. Compare timing and supervision. Ask who will be on site, how long the job may take, and how weather delays are handled.
5. Review the total value, not just price. Metal roofs usually cost more up front than asphalt, but often last much longer, about 40-70 years versus 15-25 years for asphalt.

Typical installed price ranges are often around $5-$9 per sq ft for corrugated or ribbed panels, $9-$14 per sq ft for metal shingles, and $10-$18 per sq ft for standing seam. Asphalt is often around $4-$8 per sq ft. These are estimates, not quotes. Real price depends on roof size, pitch, the metal and coating chosen, tear-off, and your area. You can review more detail on our costs page and our metal vs asphalt comparison.

Be honest with yourself too: if you plan to move soon or your budget is tight, asphalt may be the smarter call.

Download metal-roofer-vetting-checklist.pdf and keep it open on your phone or print it before appointments. Bring it to every estimate. Take notes while the roofer talks. If something is not clear, stop and ask.

Before any deposit, make sure you have the price, scope, metal type, gauge, coating, warranty, cleanup plan, and permit responsibility in writing. Then compare your options carefully. You choose who to hire. You control the final payment.