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Questions You Should Always Ask a Roofing Contractor Before Hiring

by | Oct 27, 2025 | Roof Maintenance, Roof Repair, Roof Replacement

When it comes to protecting your home, few investments matter more than your roof. Yet, too many homeowners rush into hiring a roofing contractor without asking the right questions, and end up paying for it later. From unexpected costs to shoddy workmanship, a lack of due diligence can turn what should be a simple project into a stressful (and expensive) experience.

At JN Roofing, we believe knowledge is your best protection. With years of experience serving Simcoe County, Barrie, Muskoka, Collingwood, Parry Sound, and Newmarket, we’ve seen what happens when homeowners don’t have the right information, and how much smoother things go when they do.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Your roof isn’t just another renovation project, it’s a vital part of your home’s safety, efficiency, and long-term value. Hiring an unqualified or uninsured roofer can put all of that at risk.

Unlicensed contractors often cut corners, lack WSIB coverage, and may disappear when problems arise. Transparent, credentialed roofers, on the other hand, protect your investment by offering proper insurance, clear communication, and proven workmanship backed by warranty.

That’s why asking the right questions isn’t just smart, it’s essential.

Top Questions to Ask Before Signing a Roofing Contract

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Ontario?

Always verify that your roofing contractor holds a valid Ontario business licence and carries both liability insurance and WSIB coverage. These protect you in case of on-site injuries or accidental property damage.

JN Roofing’s crews are fully licensed and insured, giving you complete peace of mind from start to finish.

2. Who Will Be Working on My Roof – Your Team or Subcontractors?

This one’s crucial. Many roofing companies outsource their work to subcontractors, which can lead to inconsistency and lack of accountability.

At JN Roofing, we never subcontract. Every project is handled by our in-house team of trained professionals. That means one standard of quality of ours on every single job.

 

3. What Warranties Do You Offer on Materials and Workmanship?

Not all warranties are created equal. Some only cover materials, while others include workmanship.

As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, JN Roofing provides the industry’s most trusted coverage:

  • 50-year limited lifetime warranty on shingles.
  • 15-year workmanship warranty directly from our team.

You’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your roof is protected for decades to come.

 

4. What Roofing Materials Do You Recommend, and Why?

Ontario’s harsh weather demands materials that can handle it all, from freeze-thaw cycles to heavy snow and high winds.

JN Roofing proudly installs Asphalt shingles such as Owens Corning and accessories, known for superior durability, advanced ventilation, and lasting beauty. We help you choose the perfect colour and style to complement your home’s design, without sacrificing performance.

 

5. Can You Provide Local References or Reviews?

Reputation says everything. A trustworthy roofing contractor should be proud to share local references and online reviews.

JN Roofing has earned the confidence of homeowners across Barrie, Simcoe County, and Muskoka, backed by an A+ BBB rating and countless five-star reviews.

6. What Is the Project Timeline and Payment Schedule?

Transparency prevents headaches. A professional roofer should provide a clear project timeline and payment structure before work begins.

JN Roofing offers detailed written estimates, realistic timelines, and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. No hidden costs, no surprise delays, just honest communication.

 

7. How Do You Handle Cleanup and Waste Disposal?

A new roof shouldn’t leave behind a mess. Roofing projects generate debris, nails, and old materials that must be handled responsibly.

JN Roofing takes site protection seriously. We use tarps, protective barriers, and magnetic sweeps to ensure your property is spotless once the job is done.

How JN Roofing Answers Every Question with Confidence

Every homeowner deserves a contractor who can answer these questions, not with vague promises, but with proof.

At JN Roofing, we’re proud to be:

  • An Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor (top 1% of roofers in North America).
  • A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
  • A fully local company, with no subcontractors, ever.
  • Backed by decades of experience serving homeowners across Ontario.

From emergency repairs to full roof replacements, our commitment to transparency and craftsmanship has made us one of the most trusted roofing contractors in Barrie and beyond.

Get Peace of Mind Before Your Next Roofing Project

Your home deserves nothing less than the best protection. Before you sign any roofing contract, make sure you’ve asked these questions and found a contractor who answers each one with confidence and proof.

At JN Roofing, we make that easy. Whether you need an inspection, a roof replacement, or insurance assistance after storm damage, our local team is here to help.