10 Red Flags to Look For When Hiring a Metal Roofing Contractor

Watch out for Roofers with these Red Flags
Choosing the right contractor is just as important as choosing the right metal roofing material. Poor installation can drastically reduce the lifespan and energy efficiency of your roof. Here’s what to watch for:
1. Lack of Metal Roofing Experience
Not all roofing contractors have experience installing metal roofs. This is a specialized skill — improper installation can lead to leaks, noise issues, and reduced durability.
Tip: Ask for examples of previous metal roofing projects and request references.
2. No Proper Licensing or Insurance
A trustworthy contractor should have:
Valid roofing contractor license
General liability insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance
Without these, you risk being liable for damages or injuries during installation.
3. Vague or Incomplete Estimates
A reliable contractor will provide a detailed written estimate outlining:
Materials used (including type and gauge)
Labor costs
Project timeline
Warranty details
Beware of vague quotes — they often lead to surprise charges later.
4. No Manufacturer Certifications
Metal roofing materials often come with specific installation requirements to maintain the warranty. A contractor without manufacturer certification may not be able to guarantee proper installation.
Tip: Ask if they are certified by the metal roof manufacturer.
5. Poor Communication
Clear, consistent communication is crucial. Red flags include delayed responses, unclear project timelines, or failure to answer questions about roofing details.
6. Low or Unrealistically Low Pricing
Metal roofing is a premium product. If a quote is far lower than others, it could mean corners are being cut — in materials, labor, or both.
Tip: Compare several quotes, but also weigh experience and quality.
7. Lack of Warranty or Poor Warranty Terms
A good metal roofing contractor should offer a workmanship warranty in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty. Avoid contractors who cannot provide written warranties.
8. No Local References or Reviews
Check online reviews and ask for local references. Contractors with a strong presence in your community often provide better reliability and accountability.
9. No Safety Measures
Metal roofing installation can be hazardous. A responsible contractor should follow OSHA safety guidelines and provide proper safety equipment for their team.
10. No Clear Project Timeline
Delays happen, but a contractor who cannot give a clear schedule or sticks to vague timelines may cause unnecessary stress and project overruns.
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