Should I pay a deposit before roofing work starts?

A reasonable deposit (typically 10-25% for materials) is normal, but never pay the full amount upfront. Stage payments linked to work completion are the safest approach. Be extremely wary of demands for large cash deposits.

How can I verify a roofer's insurance?

Ask for their insurance certificate and contact the insurance company directly to verify it's valid and current. Check the coverage amount is adequate (minimum £2 million Public Liability is recommended).

What if a roofer offers a much cheaper quote than others?

Be cautious. Significantly lower quotes often indicate inferior materials, shortcuts, lack of proper insurance, or hidden costs that appear later. Quality roofing work costs a fair price.

Are written guarantees important?

Absolutely essential. A written guarantee protects you if problems arise after completion. Check what's covered, for how long, and whether the guarantee is backed by a protection scheme like RPS.

How to Choose a Roofer You Can Trust | Roofing Protection Scheme

How to Choose a Roofer You Can Trust

Choosing the right roofer is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a homeowner. A good roof protects your family and your biggest investment, while a poor choice can lead to shoddy work, financial loss, and stress. This guide will help you identify trustworthy roofers and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Check Insurance and Credentials

Before hiring any roofer, always verify they have valid Public Liability Insurance. This protects you if something goes wrong on your property. Request proof of insurance and check it directly with the insurer if needed.

Look for memberships in professional bodies like the Roofing Protection Scheme, which vets members thoroughly before approval.

2. Get Multiple Quotes

Never accept the first quote without comparison. Get at least three written quotes from different roofers. Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than others – this often indicates corner-cutting or hidden costs to come.

A proper quote should be detailed, itemised, and include:

Labour costs broken down
Materials specified by brand and type
Timeline for completion
Payment schedule
Guarantee terms

3. Check Reviews and References

Look for verified reviews from real customers. Ask the roofer for references and actually contact them. Visit previous job sites if possible to see the quality of work firsthand.

Be cautious of roofers with no online presence or reviews – legitimate businesses establish their reputation over time.

4. Avoid High-Pressure Tactics

Legitimate roofers don't pressure you into immediate decisions. Be extremely wary of:

'Today only' special offers
Demands for large upfront payments
Claims of limited-time discounts
Pressure to sign contracts immediately

A professional roofer will give you time to consider your options and won't use scare tactics.

5. Insist on Written Contracts

Never begin work without a detailed written contract. This should include all work to be completed, materials, costs, timelines, and guarantee information. Both parties should sign before any work starts.

6. Verify Business Details

Check the roofer's business registration at Companies House. Ensure they operate from a legitimate business address, not just a mobile phone number. Be cautious of cash-only businesses with no proper invoicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find an RPS Member Roofer

Search our directory of vetted, verified roofing professionals. Customers of RPS members can add optional, independently inspected protection on eligible work.