Why Choosing the Right Contractor Matters
Your roof is the single most important protective element of your home, and the contractor you choose to install or replace it can make the difference between decades of trouble-free performance and years of leaks, repairs, and frustration. On Long Island, where storm chasers and fly-by-night operators often appear after major weather events, knowing how to identify a trustworthy roofing contractor is essential.
Every year, homeowners across Nassau and Suffolk counties fall victim to unlicensed contractors who collect deposits and disappear, perform substandard work, or lack the insurance coverage to protect the homeowner if something goes wrong. Taking the time to properly vet your roofing contractor protects your investment and your peace of mind.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
Nassau County and Suffolk County both require home improvement contractors to hold a valid license. In Nassau County, contractors must register with the Office of Consumer Affairs. In Suffolk County, licensing is handled at the town level. Ask any prospective contractor for their license number and verify it with the appropriate agency before signing anything.
Insurance is equally critical. Your contractor must carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. General liability protects you if the contractor damages your property during the work. Workers' compensation protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property. Request certificates of insurance directly from the contractor's insurance company, not just a photocopy, and verify the policies are current.
In Queens and the rest of New York City, contractors performing work over a certain dollar threshold must also hold a New York City Department of Buildings license. If your home is in Queens, make sure your contractor meets these additional requirements.
Look for Manufacturer Certifications
Major roofing manufacturers offer certification programs that recognize contractors who meet specific standards for training, business practices, and installation quality. These certifications are not handed out freely and represent a meaningful distinction between contractors.
GAF, the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, offers the Master Elite certification to only about three percent of roofing contractors nationwide. To earn and maintain this certification, contractors must demonstrate proper licensing and insurance, a commitment to ongoing professional training, and a solid reputation in their service area. Master Elite contractors can also offer GAF's best warranty options, including the Golden Pledge warranty that covers both materials and workmanship.
Brothers Aluminum holds GAF Master Elite certification, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards in roofing installation across Long Island and Queens.
Check References and Reviews
A reputable roofing contractor should be happy to provide references from recent projects in your area. Ask for at least three references and actually call them. Ask about the quality of work, timeliness, communication, and whether the final cost matched the estimate. If possible, drive by a completed project to see the work firsthand.
Online reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau provide additional perspective, but read them critically. Look for patterns rather than focusing on any single review. A contractor with hundreds of positive reviews and a handful of complaints is likely doing good work. Pay particular attention to how the contractor responds to negative reviews, as this reveals their approach to customer service.
Get Multiple Detailed Estimates
Obtain written estimates from at least three contractors for any significant roofing project. Each estimate should detail the scope of work, the specific materials to be used including manufacturer and product line, the timeline, payment schedule, and warranty coverage. Be suspicious of estimates that are significantly lower than the others, as they may reflect inferior materials, shortcuts in installation, or a lack of proper insurance.
A good contractor will also take the time to inspect your roof thoroughly before providing an estimate, not just glance at it from the ground. They should climb up on the roof or use a drone to assess its current condition, check the attic for ventilation and signs of moisture, and explain their findings to you in plain language.
Be cautious of contractors who demand large upfront deposits. A reasonable deposit of 10 to 30 percent is standard, with the balance due upon completion. Never pay for the entire job upfront.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Before making your final decision, ask these important questions: How long has your company been in business on Long Island? Will you obtain the necessary building permits? Who will supervise the crew on site each day? What happens if we discover additional damage once the old roofing is removed? Do you offer a workmanship warranty in addition to the manufacturer's material warranty? What is your process for handling complaints or warranty claims?
The answers to these questions will tell you a great deal about the contractor's professionalism, experience, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Ready to Work with a Trusted Roofing Contractor?
Brothers Aluminum has been a trusted name in Long Island home improvement for over 40 years. We are fully licensed, insured, and GAF Master Elite certified. Contact us at 516-872-0947 for a free roofing estimate and experience the difference that a reputable contractor makes.