Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer
Your roof is arguably the most critical component of your home. It protects everything beneath it from Queensland's harsh subtropical climate—the scorching summer sun, torrential storm season downpours, salt-laden coastal winds, and the relentless humidity that can wreak havoc on unprepared materials. When it comes time for repairs, restoration, or replacement, choosing the right roofing contractor isn't just about getting a good price; it's about protecting your home, your family, and your investment for decades to come.
After 25 years working on roofs across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Sunshine Coast, I've seen firsthand what happens when homeowners hire the wrong contractor. I've also helped countless families recover from dodgy workmanship, failed repairs, and contractors who disappeared mid-job. The difference between a positive roofing experience and a nightmare often comes down to the questions you ask before signing any contract.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll share the essential questions every Gold Coast homeowner should ask before hiring a roofer. Whether you're dealing with storm damage, an aging roof that needs restoration, or planning a complete replacement, these questions will help you separate the professionals from the pretenders and ensure you get quality workmanship that stands up to our unique Queensland conditions.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters
The roofing industry, like many trades, has its share of operators who cut corners, lack proper qualifications, or simply don't have the experience to handle our local conditions. Queensland's climate presents unique challenges that roofers from other regions may not fully understand. From the intense UV exposure that degrades certain materials faster than expected, to the cyclonic wind ratings required in our region, local expertise matters enormously.
Asking thorough questions serves several purposes:
- Verifies legitimacy: Confirms the contractor holds proper licensing and insurance
- Assesses experience: Reveals whether they understand Gold Coast-specific roofing challenges
- Protects your investment: Ensures warranties are valid and workmanship is guaranteed
- Sets expectations: Clarifies timelines, costs, and what's included in the quote
- Builds trust: Professional contractors welcome questions; dodgy operators avoid them
A reputable roofer will never be offended by thorough questions. In fact, at Radiant Roof Repairs, we encourage homeowners to ask as many questions as they need. The more informed you are, the better the outcome for everyone.
Essential Licensing and Insurance Questions
Are You QBCC Licensed?
This is non-negotiable in Queensland. The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) requires all contractors performing residential building work valued over $3,300 to hold an appropriate licence. For roofing work, this typically means a trade contractor licence in the relevant category.
Ask for their QBCC licence number and verify it online at the QBCC website. This takes just minutes and confirms:
- The licence is current and not suspended
- The licence covers the type of work you need
- There are no unresolved complaints or disciplinary actions
- The contractor has appropriate financial requirements in place
Unlicensed work is illegal in Queensland and can void your home insurance, leave you without warranty protection, and result in substandard work that costs more to fix than it would have to do properly in the first place.
What Insurance Coverage Do You Carry?
Professional roofing contractors should carry at minimum:
- Public liability insurance: Typically $10-20 million coverage protecting against property damage or injury to third parties
- Workers compensation insurance: Required if they have employees; protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property
- Contract works insurance: Covers damage to work in progress
Ask to see certificates of currency—not just policy numbers—and verify these are current. Insurance should be in the company name, not an individual's name if you're dealing with a business.
Can You Provide Your ABN and Business Registration Details?
A legitimate business will have an Australian Business Number (ABN) registered for business activities. You can verify this on the ABN Lookup website. This also helps you confirm you're dealing with a registered business rather than someone working cash-in-hand, which creates risks around warranty enforcement and consumer protection.
Experience and Expertise Questions
How Long Have You Been Operating on the Gold Coast?
Local experience matters enormously in roofing. Someone who's worked in Melbourne or Perth won't necessarily understand the specific challenges of Gold Coast roofing:
- Salt air corrosion: Coastal properties within 1km of the beach face accelerated corrosion of metal components
- Storm season preparation: November to April brings severe storms requiring specific fixing methods and material choices
- Humidity considerations: Our subtropical humidity affects underlayment choices and ventilation requirements
- Cyclonic ratings: Building codes require specific wind ratings for our region
Look for contractors with at least 5-10 years of local experience. They'll have seen multiple storm seasons, understand which materials perform best in our conditions, and have established relationships with quality suppliers.
What Types of Roofing Do You Specialise In?
Roofing encompasses many different materials and styles, each requiring specific expertise:
- Metal roofing: Colorbond, Zincalume, and other steel roofing
- Tile roofing: Concrete tiles, terracotta tiles, slate
- Flat roofing: Membrane systems, metal deck roofing
- Speciality roofing: Heritage restorations, commercial applications
Ensure the contractor has specific experience with your roof type. A metal roofing specialist may not be the best choice for complex tile work, and vice versa. Ask for examples of similar projects they've completed.
Can You Provide References from Recent Gold Coast Projects?
Any reputable contractor should be able to provide references from recent local projects. Ask for:
- At least 3-5 references from the past 12 months
- Projects similar in scope to yours
- Contact details so you can verify independently
When contacting references, ask about:
- Was the work completed on time and on budget?
- How did they handle any issues that arose?
- Would you hire them again?
- How does the work look now (especially for older projects)?
Detailed Quote and Pricing Questions
Can You Provide a Detailed Written Quote?
Verbal quotes aren't worth the paper they're not written on. Always insist on a detailed written quote that includes:
- Itemised costs: Labour, materials, equipment hire, disposal fees
- Material specifications: Brand names, product codes, colours
- Scope of work: Exactly what's included and excluded
- Timeline: Start date, expected duration, completion date
- Payment terms: Deposit amount, progress payments, final payment
- Warranty information: What's covered and for how long
For roof repairs on the Gold Coast, expect quotes ranging from $500 for minor repairs up to $4,000 or more for significant work. Roof restorations typically run between $2,500 and $8,000 depending on roof size and condition, while complete replacements range from $19,999 to $45,000 or more depending on materials and complexity.
What's Included in Your Price?
Don't assume anything is included. Specifically ask about:
- Removal and disposal: Of old materials, debris, and waste
- Scaffolding and safety equipment: Often a significant cost
- Permits and inspections: If required by your local council
- Underlayment and flashings: Critical waterproofing components
- Gutters and downpipes: Are these included or extra?
- Clean-up: Will they leave your property clean and tidy?
The cheapest quote often excludes items that more comprehensive quotes include. Compare like-for-like by ensuring all quotes cover the same scope of work.
What Could Cause the Price to Change?
Unforeseen issues are common in roofing, especially with older homes. A professional contractor will be upfront about potential variations:
- Hidden water damage or rot in roof structure
- Asbestos discovery requiring licensed removal
- Additional repairs needed to meet current building codes
- Weather delays requiring additional site visits
Ask how they handle variations. Do they require written approval before proceeding with additional work? What's their process for communicating unexpected issues?
Workmanship and Warranty Questions
What Warranties Do You Offer?
Roofing warranties come in several forms:
- Manufacturer's warranty: Covers material defects, typically 10-25 years for quality products
- Workmanship warranty: Covers installation quality, typically 5-10 years from reputable contractors
- Structural warranty: Required by QBCC for certain work types
Ensure you understand:
- What's covered and what's excluded
- How to make a warranty claim
- Whether the warranty is transferable if you sell the property
- What might void the warranty
Be wary of contractors offering unusually long workmanship warranties (20+ years) unless they have an established track record and financial stability to honour them.
How Do You Ensure Quality Control?
Professional contractors have systems in place to ensure consistent quality:
- Pre-job inspections and documentation
- Qualified supervisors overseeing work
- Progress photos and updates
- Final inspection and sign-off process
- Post-completion follow-up
At Radiant Roof Repairs, we document every project extensively and conduct thorough final inspections before considering any job complete. This protects both us and our customers.
What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?
Even the best contractors occasionally have issues arise. What matters is how they handle them:
- Do they have a formal complaints procedure?
- What's their response time for warranty issues?
- Will they provide contact details for reaching someone if problems occur?
- Are they members of any industry bodies that provide dispute resolution?
A contractor who's confident in their work will have clear processes for addressing any concerns.
Project Management Questions
Who Will Be On-Site Supervising the Work?
Ask specifically about site supervision:
- Will the business owner or licensed contractor be on-site?
- Who is the project supervisor and how can you contact them?
- How often will qualified supervision be present?
- Who do you contact if you have concerns during the project?
Some contractors quote personally then send subcontractors to complete the work with minimal supervision. Understanding the site management structure helps set expectations.
What's Your Realistic Timeline?
Be cautious of contractors promising unrealistically fast completion times. Quality roofing work takes time, and rushing leads to mistakes. Ask about:
- Expected start date
- Daily working hours
- Estimated duration
- Weather contingency plans
- How delays are communicated
During storm season (November-April), weather delays are common on the Gold Coast. A realistic contractor will factor this into their timeline rather than making promises they can't keep.
How Will You Protect My Property During the Work?
Roofing work is inherently disruptive. Professional contractors take steps to minimise impact:
- Protection for gardens, driveways, and outdoor areas
- Measures to prevent debris entering roof cavity or living spaces
- Security for your property when roof is partially completed
- Noise management and consideration for neighbours
Ask what specific measures they'll implement and how they handle any damage that might occur.
Material and Method Questions
What Materials Do You Recommend and Why?
A knowledgeable contractor should explain material recommendations based on:
- Your specific property and roof design
- Local climate and conditions
- Your budget and priorities
- Expected lifespan and maintenance requirements
On the Gold Coast, material selection is particularly important due to:
- Salt air exposure requiring marine-grade fasteners and specific Colorbond grades for coastal properties
- High UV exposure affecting colour retention and material longevity
- Storm ratings requiring appropriate fixing methods and material thickness
Be wary of contractors who push specific brands without explaining why they're suitable for your situation.
Are Your Materials Suitable for Coastal Conditions?
If you're within 1km of the coast, this question is essential. Coastal environments require:
- Marine-grade stainless steel fasteners
- Appropriate Colorbond or metal grades (some aren't suitable for coastal use)
- Specific underlayment to handle salt and humidity
- Enhanced flashing and sealing
Using inland-grade materials on coastal properties is a recipe for premature failure and voided warranties.
How Will You Handle Asbestos If Found?
Many Gold Coast homes built before 1990 contain asbestos in roofing materials. Ask:
- Do they hold appropriate asbestos removal licences?
- How do they test for and identify asbestos?
- What's the process and cost if asbestos is found?
- Do they have relationships with licensed asbestos removalists?
Never allow anyone to disturb suspected asbestos materials without proper testing and licensed removal procedures.
Communication and Payment Questions
How Will You Keep Me Informed During the Project?
Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and stress:
- Will you receive regular progress updates?
- Who is your primary contact and how can you reach them?
- How are changes or issues communicated?
- Will you receive photos of work in progress?
Establish communication expectations before work begins.
What Are Your Payment Terms?
QBCC regulations limit deposits to 10% of the contract price for contracts over $20,000. Be cautious of:
- Contractors requesting large upfront payments
- Cash-only requirements
- Pressure to pay in full before work begins
Typical payment structures include:
- Deposit on contract signing (10% maximum for larger jobs)
- Progress payments at agreed milestones
- Final payment on satisfactory completion
Never pay the final amount until you've inspected the completed work and are satisfied with the result.
Do You Provide a Written Contract?
For work over $3,300, QBCC requires a written contract. This should include:
- Full business details and licence numbers
- Detailed scope of work
- Complete pricing and payment schedule
- Start and completion dates
- Warranty terms
- Variation procedures
- Dispute resolution processes
Read the contract thoroughly before signing and ask questions about anything unclear.
Red Flags to Watch For
Knowing what warning signs to look for is just as important as knowing what questions to ask:
- Door knockers: Legitimate contractors rarely cold-call. Storm chasers often appear after severe weather offering "special deals"
- Pressure tactics: Deals that expire immediately or warnings about imminent roof failure are manipulation techniques
- No fixed address: Reputable contractors have established premises, not just mobile numbers
- Unusually low quotes: If one quote is dramatically lower than others, question what's being left out
- Reluctance to provide documentation: Any hesitation to show licences, insurance, or references is a major red flag
- Cash-only deals: Usually indicates tax avoidance and limits your consumer protections
- No written quote or contract: Verbal agreements provide no protection when disputes arise
When to Call a Professional
Some situations clearly require professional assessment:
- After severe storms: Even if you can't see obvious damage, have your roof inspected. Wind uplift and hail damage aren't always visible from ground level
- Visible leaks or water stains: Water damage spreads quickly in our humid climate. Don't delay getting leaks assessed
- Roof over 20 years old: Even if it looks fine, older roofs benefit from professional inspection to catch issues before they become expensive problems
- Before buying a property: Include a roof inspection in your pre-purchase building inspection
- When selling: Addressing roof issues before listing can prevent sale negotiations stalling over roof condition
Radiant Roof Repairs offers comprehensive roof inspections that identify current issues and potential future problems. An inspection investment now can save thousands in unexpected repairs later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Verify a Roofer's QBCC Licence?
Visit the QBCC website (qbcc.qld.gov.au) and use their licence search function. Enter the contractor's name or licence number to verify their licence is current, covers the appropriate work categories, and shows no unresolved complaints or disciplinary actions. This free search takes just minutes and is essential due diligence for any roofing project.
What Should I Do If a Roofer Won't Provide Their Licence Number?
Treat this as a major red flag and do not proceed. Legitimate contractors are proud of their licensing and will readily provide their QBCC licence number. Reluctance or excuses suggest they may be unlicensed, which means the work will be illegal, potentially unsafe, and leave you without warranty protection or insurance coverage.
How Many Quotes Should I Get Before Hiring a Roofer?
We recommend obtaining at least three quotes from different contractors. This gives you a reasonable comparison of pricing, approaches, and professionalism. However, don't automatically choose the cheapest option—compare the full scope of what's included and assess each contractor's experience, communication, and professionalism alongside their price.
Is the Cheapest Quote Always a Bad Choice?
Not necessarily, but it warrants investigation. Sometimes a contractor is genuinely more efficient or has lower overheads. However, significantly cheaper quotes often indicate cut corners, inferior materials, inexperienced workers, or excluded items that other quotes include. Ask the cheapest bidder to explain how their price compares and what might account for differences.
How Much Should I Pay as a Deposit?
QBCC regulations cap deposits at 10% of the contract price for contracts over $20,000. For smaller jobs, deposits of 10-20% are reasonable. Never pay more than this upfront, regardless of what reasons a contractor gives. Large deposit requests are a common tactic of dodgy operators who may disappear with your money.
What Happens If My Roofer Goes Out of Business During the Project?
This is why QBCC licensing matters. Licensed contractors participate in the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme, which provides protection if your contractor dies, disappears, or becomes insolvent. Claims must be made within specific timeframes, so contact QBCC immediately if your contractor becomes unreachable.
Should I Be Home While Roofing Work Is Done?
You don't need to be home constantly, but being available at the start of each day and being reachable by phone is helpful. Key moments when your presence is valuable include the project start (to discuss access and any concerns), completion of major milestones, and final inspection before sign-off.
How Long Does a Typical Roof Repair Take?
Minor repairs might take a day or less. More significant repairs typically take 2-5 days depending on complexity, access requirements, and weather. Complete roof replacements usually require 1-2 weeks for an average-sized home. Your contractor should provide realistic timeframes in their quote.
What's the Best Time of Year to Get Roofing Work Done on the Gold Coast?
The dry season (May to October) offers the most reliable working conditions with less chance of rain delays. However, this is also peak season for roofing contractors, so booking lead times may be longer. Storm season (November to April) presents more weather challenges but contractors may have more availability. Any reputable contractor can work year-round with appropriate weather planning.
Do I Need Council Approval for Roof Repairs or Replacement?
Minor repairs typically don't require approval. However, structural changes, alterations that change the roofline, or work on heritage-listed properties may require development approval. Complete roof replacements usually need approval if they involve structural changes. Your contractor should advise on approval requirements as part of their quote process.
What Questions Should I Ask About Warranty Coverage?
Key warranty questions include: What's covered and for how long? What could void the warranty? How do I make a claim? Is the warranty transferable if I sell my property? Does the workmanship warranty cover the entire installation or just specific components? Get all warranty terms in writing before work begins.
How Can I Tell If a Quote Is Complete or Missing Items?
Compare quotes line-by-line and ask each contractor specifically whether their quote includes: removal and disposal of old materials, scaffolding and safety equipment, all necessary flashings and sealants, underlayment replacement, and site clean-up. The most common "hidden" costs in cheap quotes are disposal fees, scaffolding hire, and flashings.
What Should I Look for When Inspecting Completed Roofing Work?
Before final payment, check: all areas are complete with no unfinished sections; flashings are properly installed around penetrations and edges; ridge capping is secure and aligned; there's no visible debris in gutters or on the roof; your property has been left clean; and all specified materials have been used. Take photos and raise any concerns immediately.
How Often Should I Have My Roof Professionally Inspected?
On the Gold Coast, we recommend professional roof inspections every 2-3 years for newer roofs and annually for roofs over 15 years old. Additionally, arrange an inspection after any severe storm that brings large hail or damaging winds. Regular inspections catch minor issues before they become major expenses.
What's the Difference Between Roof Repair, Restoration, and Replacement?
Repairs address specific damage or problems in isolated areas—a few cracked tiles, a leaking section, damaged flashing. Restoration involves comprehensive work across the entire roof to extend its life—cleaning, repairing damage throughout, recoating, and replacing worn components. Replacement involves removing the existing roof entirely and installing new materials. Your contractor should recommend the most appropriate option based on your roof's condition, age, and your budget.
Conclusion
Hiring the right roofing contractor is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a homeowner. By asking thorough questions about licensing, insurance, experience, pricing, warranties, and project management, you protect yourself from the all-too-common problems that arise when homeowners choose contractors based solely on price or availability.
Remember that quality roofing work is an investment in your property's protection and value. The Gold Coast's climate—with its intense storms, high humidity, salt air, and UV exposure—demands contractors who understand local conditions and use appropriate materials and methods.
Don't be afraid to ask questions, request documentation, and take time to compare your options. A professional contractor will welcome your due diligence because they know their work will stand up to scrutiny.
If you're planning roofing work on your Gold Coast, Brisbane, or Sunshine Coast property, the team at Radiant Roof Repairs is always happy to answer your questions and provide obligation-free advice. With over 25 years of local experience and a commitment to quality workmanship, we understand what it takes to keep Queensland roofs performing at their best.
For a professional roof inspection or to discuss your roofing needs, call Daniel Morrison and the team on 0480 855 390. We'll give you honest advice and a detailed quote so you can make an informed decision about protecting your home.
*About the Author: Daniel Morrison is a QBCC Licensed Roofing Specialist with over 25 years of experience in the Gold Coast roofing industry. He founded Radiant Roof Repairs to provide Gold Coast homeowners with reliable, quality roofing services backed by genuine expertise and local knowledge.*
