What to check before you hire a roofer

A new roof is one of the bigger investments you will make in your home. Most roofers are honest and good at what they do, but it pays to check before you sign. Here is a practical checklist.

1. A current QBCC licence

In Queensland, roofing work above a certain value must be done by someone who holds the right QBCC licence. Ask for the licence number and check it yourself on the QBCC licence register. The register shows whether the licence is current and what classes of work it covers.

A licence number should also appear on the contractor's quotes, website and advertising.

2. A written, itemised quote

Avoid verbal prices. A good quote is in writing and sets out:

• What is being removed
• What is being installed, including the product and colour
• Battens, sarking or insulation
• Flashings, valleys, ridge capping
• Gutters and downpipes if included
• Safety equipment such as scaffolding
• Clean up and removal of the old roof
• The price and the payment terms

If something is not on the quote, assume it is not included and ask.

3. Insurance

Ask what insurance the contractor holds, such as public liability. For residential building work over a certain value, Queensland Home Warranty Scheme cover may apply. The QBCC Home Warranty page explains when.

4. A contract

For larger residential jobs, Queensland rules require a written contract. Read it before you sign. It should match the quote and include the scope, price, payment stages and how changes are handled.

5. Sensible payment terms

Be cautious of anyone who asks for a large payment upfront. Deposits for residential building work are limited by law in Queensland. Payment stages should be linked to work actually completed, and set out in writing.

6. Safety

Roof work is high-risk work. A professional roofer sets up edge protection or scaffolding where it is needed and works to a safe work method statement. If you see people on a steep or high roof with no safety setup, that is a warning sign.

7. How they talk to you

During the quote, notice whether the roofer:

• Looks at the roof properly, not just from the car
• Explains what they see in plain language
• Answers your questions directly
• Tells you when something does not need doing

Good communication during the quote usually means good communication during the job.

8. Reviews and past work

Read reviews, and look for detail about the crew, communication, timing and clean up. Ask to see photos of finished roofs. Reviews that mention specific things are more useful than a star rating alone.

9. Asbestos awareness

If your home was built before 1990, part of the roof or eaves may contain asbestos. A good roofer will raise it if they suspect it, and explain that it must be handled by licensed people. The Queensland Government asbestos website has more information.

A quick summary

Ask us anything

Top Tin Roofing holds QBCC licence 15587145. We are happy to answer every question on this list during your free quote.