15 Crucial Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor in Florida (And Why They Matter)

In Florida, where hurricanes, heavy rain, and intense sunshine are part of everyday life, your roof is more than just a cover — it’s your home’s first line of defense.

So, when it comes time for a roof repair or full replacement, hiring the right roofing contractor isn’t just important — it’s essential.

Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or planning ahead for hurricane season, these 15 must-ask questions will help you choose a reliable Florida roofing contractor who knows how to protect your home against our unique climate.

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Why Asking the Right Questions Matters in Florida

Florida isn’t like other states. Our roofing contractors must follow stricter codes, handle high-wind zone requirements, and work with materials that can withstand heat, UV damage, and tropical storms.

The right questions will help you:

• Avoid shady contractors (especially after storms)
• Ensure your roof meets Florida Building Code standards
• Protect your home and your investment

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Top 15 Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor in Florida

1. Are You Licensed in Florida and Fully Insured?

Florida requires roofing contractors to be licensed by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR). They should also carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

➡️ Ask for their Florida license number and verify it on myfloridalicense.com.

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2. How Long Have You Worked in Florida?

Florida’s weather is unique. You want a roofer who understands how humidity, salt air, wind zones, and hurricanes affect roofs here — not someone new to the state.

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3. Can You Provide Recent References in My Area?

Reputable contractors should have local reviews and recent clients nearby — ideally in your city or county. Ask for homes you can drive by to check their work.

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4. Do You Provide a Detailed, Written Estimate?

Never settle for a handshake or a verbal promise.

A clear written estimate should include:

• Type of roofing material
• Labor costs
• Timeline
• Permit costs (important in Florida)
• Cleanup and debris removal

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5. What’s Included in the Quote?

Get clarity on:

• Tear-off vs. overlay
• Underlayment type (Florida requires self-adhered underlayment in some areas)
• Hurricane straps or reinforcements
• Disposal of old materials

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6. What Warranties Do You Offer?

You’ll want two warranties:

1. Manufacturer’s warranty (on materials)
2. Workmanship warranty (from the contractor)

Also ask: Are warranties transferable? That’s a bonus if you sell your home.

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7. Do You Handle Permits and Inspections?

In Florida, roofing jobs typically require a permit from your local county or city. A good contractor should handle this for you and schedule the required inspections.

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8. Who Will Be On-Site Managing the Job?

Ask if the contractor personally oversees the project or if a foreman will be present. Make sure there’s someone you can speak with directly during the project.

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9. How Long Will the Job Take (Weather Permitting)?

Florida weather can be unpredictable. Your roofer should give a realistic time estimate — and a backup plan in case of rain delays.

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10. What’s Your Plan If a Storm Interrupts the Job?

Roofing projects in Florida are vulnerable to sudden weather changes. Ask:

• How will they protect your exposed roof if it rains?
• Will they secure materials and tools each day?

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11. How Do You Protect My Home and Yard During the Job?

Contractors should use tarps to protect landscaping and magnetic sweepers to pick up nails. If they don’t mention this, ask directly.

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12. What Is Your Clean-Up Process?

A good Florida roofer will:

• Haul away debris daily
• Use magnets to remove nails from your yard
• Leave your property looking as clean as it was before they started

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13. Do You Use Subcontractors or In-House Crews?

If they use subcontractors (which is common in Florida), ask how they’re vetted and trained. Who’s responsible for quality control?

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14. What Materials Do You Recommend for Florida Roofs?

Florida roofs need materials that:

• Reflect UV rays
• Withstand high winds (look for Miami-Dade County approved shingles or tiles)
• Resist mold and algae

Ask why they recommend certain shingles, tile, or metal for your specific location.

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15. Can I Review a Sample Contract Before Signing?

Always read the fine print. A Florida roofing contract should include:

• Your right to cancel within 3 days
• Payment terms
• Insurance and warranty information
• Scope of work

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Florida-Specific Red Flags to Watch For

🚫 Contractors knocking on doors after a storm and offering “free inspections”
🚫 Requests for full payment upfront
🚫 No Florida license or insurance
🚫 Vague estimates or missing paperwork

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Final Pre-Hire Checklist (Florida Edition)

✅ Verified Florida roofing license
✅ Insurance paperwork in hand
✅ Written estimate with clear scope
✅ References from local homeowners
✅ Clear plan for weather and clean-up

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Conclusion: Your Roof Deserves a Pro Who Knows Florida

Hiring a roofing contractor in Florida is not just about fixing a leak — it’s about protecting your home from some of the harshest weather in the country.

Asking these 15 questions won’t just help you hire a great contractor — it will give you peace of mind that your roof is built to last, through storms and sunshine alike.

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Need a trusted roofing contractor in Florida?
We specialize in weather-resistant, code-compliant roofing that keeps Florida homes safe year-round.
📞 Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.