1. Are you licensed and insured in Arizona?
This is non-negotiable. Arizona requires roofing contractors to hold a valid ROC (Registrar of Contractors) license. Ask for the license number and verify it at the Arizona ROC website before you go any further. Insurance is equally important — if a worker is injured on your property without proper coverage, you could be liable.
2. Do you have experience with Tucson's specific roofing systems?
Tucson homes predominantly use tile roofing — Spanish tile, concrete tile, and clay tile — which behaves very differently from asphalt shingles common elsewhere. Make sure your contractor has hands-on experience with your roof type specifically, not just roofing in general.
3. Can you help me with my insurance claim?
Monsoon season brings hail, high winds, and debris that can cause significant roof damage. A good Tucson roofer should be comfortable working directly with your insurance adjuster and helping you get the full value of your claim. Contractors who avoid this conversation are a red flag.
4. What does your warranty cover?
A quality roofing job should come with two warranties — a manufacturer's warranty on the materials and a workmanship warranty from the contractor. Ask what each covers, how long it lasts, and what voids it. Be wary of contractors who only offer a one-year workmanship warranty on a full roof replacement.
5. Who actually does the work?
Many roofing companies subcontract to crews they have never worked with before. Ask whether the crew doing your roof is employed directly by the company or subcontracted out. You should know who is going to be on your roof and whether the primary contractor stands behind their work.
Taking 15 minutes to ask these questions can save you tens of thousands of dollars and years of headaches.