How can you tell a good roofer?

When it comes to protecting your home, your roof is one of the most important components. Choosing the right roofing contractor can make the difference between a long-lasting roof and costly problems down the road. But how can you tell if the roofer you’re considering is truly reputable? Here are the top signs to look for—and how Warner Roofing & Restoration checks every box.

1. A Good Roofer Is Fully Licensed and Fully Insured

One of the clearest indicators of a professional roofer is proper licensing and insurance. Warner Roofing & Restoration has been fully licensed and fully insured for over 15 years, serving Rockford, Belvidere, Pecatonica, and surrounding Northern Illinois communities with 5-star workmanship.

Licensing ensures your roofer understands the local building codes, while insurance protects you from liability if an accident occurs on the job. If a contractor can’t provide proof of licensing and insurance immediately, that’s a major red flag.

2. A Reputable Roofer Never Asks for Full Payment Upfront

Trustworthy roofing companies do not require you to pay for the entire job before work begins. At most, a small deposit may be collected once materials are ordered—never 100% upfront.

If a roofer asks you to pay in full before they lift a hammer, it usually means one thing: they’re not planning to show up.

Warner Roofing & Restoration only collects payment according to clearly written and agreed-upon project stages, with transparency throughout the entire process.

3. They Don’t Ask You to Pull the Permit or Buy the Materials

A legitimate roofing company will handle all permits, materials, inspections, and jobsite requirements. If a contractor asks you to pull the building permit or purchase the materials, they are either unlicensed or trying to avoid responsibility.

Warner Roofing & Restoration manages the entire process from start to finish. We work with the city, order all materials, schedule inspections, and ensure the project is completed safely and correctly.

4. Quality Roofers Provide Proper Protection—Including Tarping

Another major sign of a reputable roofer is how they handle protection during the job. In the photo referenced, you can see the professional emergency tarping done by Warner Roofing & Restoration.

A good roofer protects your home before, during, and after the project. Whether it’s emergency tarping after storm damage, protecting landscaping, or keeping the home watertight while work is in progress, these steps show professionalism and care.

5. Experience, Longevity, and Reputation Matter

For over 15 years, Warner Roofing & Restoration has built a reputation based on trust, quality, and customer service. We’ve completed thousands of roofing projects and have extensive experience with insurance claims, storm damage, wind damage, and full roof replacements.

A good roofer doesn’t just “finish the job”—they stand behind it.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right roofer is essential for protecting your home and your investment. Look for licensing, insurance, transparency, experience, and professionalism. Avoid anyone who asks for full payment upfront, wants you to pull permits, or refuses to provide documentation.

If you want a company with 15 years of proven service, strong local reputation, and the highest standards of workmanship, Warner Roofing & Restoration is here to help.

Need a free inspection or storm damage evaluation?
Call 815-877-ROOF or visit our website to get started.