Roofing contractors are one of the most-complained-about trades to the CSLB every year - and most of those complaints trace back to homeowners who didn't ask the right questions up front. Here are the 15 questions every LA homeowner should ask before signing a 2026 roofing contract.
- 1
Are you licensed by the California State License Board?
Ask for the CSLB number and verify it at cslb.ca.gov. The roofing classification is C-39. No license = no contract. Green Home Remodeling holds CSLB License #1100259.
- 2
Do you carry workers' compensation and general liability insurance?
Both are required by California law for any project over $500. Ask for current certificates with you named as additional insured. If the contractor is uninsured, you can be personally liable for worker injuries on your property.
- 3
Who will actually be on my roof?
Make sure the answer is the company's W-2 employees, not day laborers from an unlicensed sub. Ask if the foreman is bilingual if that matters to you.
- 4
What's the full written scope of work?
Tear-off vs. overlay, layers of underlayment, flashing scope, ventilation upgrades, code upgrades, ridge type, and color/profile must all be in writing. Verbal promises don't count.
- 5
What manufacturer warranty applies, and are you certified to issue it?
GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred are the certifications that unlock the full enhanced warranties (typically 50 years). Only certified contractors can offer them.
- 6
What's your workmanship warranty?
10 years minimum from a credible contractor. Anything less is a red flag.
- 7
Will you pull the permit?
Yes - always. A contractor who suggests skipping the permit is hiding something from the building department, your insurance, or both.
- 8
What's the payment schedule?
California law caps down payment at 10% or $1,000, whichever is less. Progress payments tied to milestones. Final payment only after inspection passes.
- 9
How will you protect my landscaping, gutters, and AC units?
Expect tarps, plywood walks, magnetic nail sweep, and physical AC covers. Ask about pool protection if relevant.
- 10
What happens if you find rotten sheathing?
Get the unit price for sheathing replacement in writing up front so a $400 fix doesn't become a $4,000 surprise.
- 11
How long will the project take?
An average LA single-family is 2–4 working days for asphalt, 5–8 for tile. Ask about weather contingencies.
- 12
Can I see local references from the past 12 months?
Three minimum, ideally in your neighborhood. Drive by them.
- 13
Are you BBB-accredited and what's your Google rating?
Look for 4.7+ on Google with at least 50 reviews. Read the recent ones.
- 14
What's the lien-release process?
You should receive unconditional lien releases from the contractor and every material supplier before final payment.
- 15
Is the price you quoted the final price?
Within scope, yes. Get any change-order policy in writing - written approval required before extra work.
The Right Contractor Welcomes These Questions
If a roofer hesitates or gets defensive on any of these, walk away. Green Home Remodeling answers all 15 in our standard pre-contract meeting - no awkward conversations needed. Call (800) 650-9055.
