Questions to ask roofer Charleston is on every homeowner’s list when the need for a new roof or serious repairs comes knocking.
Selecting the right professional can feel overwhelming—nobody wants to end up with shoddy workmanship or surprise fees.
A strong, leak-proof roof is key to protecting your investment and family.
Here are five critical questions that simplify choosing a roofer Charleston homeowners can depend on.
Top 5 Questions to Ask
Question #1: Are You Licensed and Insured?
Why It Matters
Licensing proves your roofer meets state requirements and local building codes.
In Charleston, a valid license shows they’re serious and not some fly-by-night group.
Insurance protects you from footing the bill if something goes wrong—like a worker getting injured or property damage.
What to Look For
- Ask to see proof of licensing.
- Request insurance certificates (liability and workers’ comp).
- Confirm these documents are current.
Pro Tip
If they dodge the question or make excuses, run.
Scammers love to skip licensing fees.
A legitimate roofer welcomes the chance to show they’re above board.
Question #2: What Experience Do You Have with Charleston Roofs?
Why It Matters
Charleston’s climate can punish roofs—punishing humidity, sudden storms, and the occasional hurricane.
A contractor who understands these conditions picks materials and methods to withstand them.
They also know the region’s building codes and how to handle insurance claims after storms.
What to Look For
- Familiarity with local humidity, salt air, and typical storms.
- Comfort working on different roof types (shingles, metal, tile).
- Knowledge of materials that can handle heat and moisture.
Local Projects
Ask about past work in nearby areas like Isle of Palms SC or Ladson SC.
If they’ve done multiple projects under similar conditions, it’s a strong sign they can handle your roof.
Question #3: Can You Provide References or Reviews?
Why It Matters
No references = big red flag.
Legitimate contractors have a track record of happy customers.
References and online reviews offer a window into their reliability, quality, and attitude toward customer service.
What to Look For
- A list of recent homeowners you can call.
- Strong online feedback on platforms like Google or Yelp.
- Testimonials on their website or dedicated reviews page.
Doing a Quick Check
If every review is a glowing five-star with no details, dig deeper.
Real feedback often includes specifics—how they handled an issue or their cleanup approach.
Check if they respond politely to less-than-perfect reviews.
That shows professionalism.
Question #4: What Warranties Do You Offer?
Why It Matters
Your roof takes a beating.
If new issues pop up after the job, you don’t want to pay all over again.
A reputable contractor stands by their labor and the materials they use.
Warranties vary—some cover just the shingles, while others cover both materials and installation for years.
What to Look For
- Manufacturer warranties on materials (often 20–50 years).
- Workmanship warranties cover labor for a set period.
- Clear explanation of what’s excluded.
Hidden Clauses
Get all the warranty details in writing.
If the contract is vague, ask for specifics.
A solid warranty speaks volumes about the contractor’s confidence in their craftsmanship.
Question #5: Can You Provide a Detailed Estimate?
Why It Matters
Roof projects can get pricey, and nobody likes a random invoice.
A detailed estimate breaks down materials, labor, disposal, and any extra charges.
You’ll know if certain upgrades—like better underlayment—are optional or required.
What to Look For
- Line items for each cost.
- Disposal fees for old shingles or rotted decking.
- Cleanup or final inspection steps.
- Potential extra costs if hidden damage is found.
Compare Estimates
Get a few quotes to spot outliers.
If one is shockingly cheap, they might be skimping on material quality or missing critical steps.
Legitimate contractors charge enough to do the job right, not cut corners.
Red Flags to Avoid
Huge Upfront Payments
Paying everything before they start sets you up for scams.
A small deposit can be normal, but a real pro structures payments in phases.
No Physical Address
A P.O. box or no verifiable office is suspicious.
Legit contractors have a business address you can visit, like Wando Roofing Company Charleston at 4721 Lysa Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405, United States.
Dodges Your Questions
If they won’t talk about licenses, references, or warranties, that’s a bad sign.
Honest roofers have nothing to hide.
Why Choose Wando Roofing Company Charleston?
Wando Roofing Company Charleston checks every box.
They’ve served the Lowcountry since 2009 with top-level craftsmanship and transparent practices.
They handle everything from minor roof repair in Charleston SC to full replacements, plus insurance claim assistance if storms wreak havoc.
Licensing and Insurance
They hold the necessary licenses in Charleston, so you’re covered if something goes wrong.
They also maintain liability insurance and workers’ comp to protect you from unexpected bills.
Deep Charleston Experience
That Charleston humidity, hurricane risk, and scorching sun?
They’ve seen it all and use materials that stand up to local weather.
Their approach ensures your roof can handle the region’s challenges, from intense summer heat to windy storms in the fall.
References and Reviews
Satisfied clients across Charleston speak highly of them.
They have a solid reviews page showing real projects and happy customers.
Chances are you can find a homeowner in your area who hired them and can vouch for their work ethic and results.
Warranties and Detailed Estimates
They lay out warranties.
They’ll let you know if a manufacturer’s warranty covers the shingles for 30 years, or if their labor is guaranteed for 5 years (or more).
They also provide thorough estimates with no hidden surprises.
You’ll see exactly what you’re paying for, down to nails and disposal fees.
Conclusion
Hiring a roofing contractor in Charleston requires more than just a glance at a business card or a phone number on a roadside sign.
A solid contractor protects your wallet and your home’s integrity.
Asking the right questions—about licensing, experience, references, warranties, and estimates—keeps you safe from rip-offs and ensures a job is done right.
Choosing a roofer Charleston can trust isn’t rocket science, but it does involve some careful screening.
Use these five questions to filter out the risky ones and land on a contractor with proven results.
Request a FREE Estimate
Need a trusted roofing contractor Charleston can rely on?
Request a Free Estimate today!
Wando Roofing Company Charleston is ready to answer your questions, provide references, and show why they’re the top pick since 2009.
Call +1 843-442-7656 or visit Wando Roofing Company Charleston to schedule a consultation.
Get peace of mind from a local team that knows how to keep your roof strong in any Charleston weather.
FAQs
Do I need multiple quotes before choosing a roofer?
It’s often smart to compare two or three quotes.
If someone’s bid is way lower or higher, dig into why.
But remember—cheaper doesn’t always mean better quality.
How can I verify a roofer’s license in Charleston?
Contact the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation or check their online license portal.
Reputable contractors have no issue sharing license numbers.
Should I worry if a contractor doesn’t have workers’ comp insurance?
Yes.
Without it, you could be liable if a worker is injured on your property.
Always confirm they have proper insurance before signing anything.
Can I see pictures of past projects?
Any contractor who’s proud of their work is happy to show before-and-after shots.
Look for examples of homes similar to yours if possible.
Does a warranty usually cover storm damage?
Many manufacturer warranties exclude extreme events like hurricanes, but a good contractor can walk you through insurance claims or special coverage.
Always read the fine print on your policy.
