How to Find a Reliable Roofing Contractor in Maryland: 6 Questions to Ask
Let’s get something straight: your home is likely the biggest financial investment you’ll ever make. And your roof? That’s your first line of defense in protecting that investment. So when it’s time to repair or replace it, you better believe that who you hire matters—a lot.
If you’ve been wondering how to find a reliable roofing contractor or what questions to ask a roofing contractor before signing anything, you’re already taking smart steps. Being proactive is one of the best ways to avoid costly mistakes—and keep your finances on track.
Too many Maryland homeowners rush to hire the first contractor who gives them a price they like. But listen, that’s not how you protect your investment. That’s how you lose it.
Ask the right questions. Get clear answers. And if you don’t? You walk away. That’s what financially empowered homeowners do.
Let’s dive into six essential questions to ask your prospective roofer—questions that can save you time, money, and headaches.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Maryland?
This is non-negotiable. Any contractor who steps foot on your property should be licensed to operate in Maryland and carry both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
Ask for documentation. Don’t settle for verbal assurances. If they can’t provide proof, that’s a red flag—and a reason to walk.
Why it matters: If something goes wrong—say a worker is injured on your property or a ladder crashes into your neighbor’s car—you could be on the hook. Insurance protects everyone.
2. What Warranties Do You Offer—and Will You Put It in Writing?
Warranties aren’t a nice bonus—they’re your financial safety net. You want two types:
- A manufacturer’s warranty on materials
- A workmanship warranty on labor
Ask how long each one lasts, what it covers, and most importantly, get it in writing. A contractor’s word means nothing if you can’t prove it later.
At MARS Restoration, we offer lifetime warranties on both materials and labor—because we stand behind our work.
3. Can You Share References or Verified Reviews?
You wouldn’t invest in a stock without researching the company first. So why invest in a roofer without checking their track record?
Ask for references. Read online reviews. Look for consistency in how customers describe their experience.
And remember: if a contractor gets defensive or dodges this question, that’s your cue to say “Thanks, but no thanks.”
Still thinking through your options? Make sure MARS Restoration is on your shortlist. We’ll answer every one of these questions openly—and invite you to verify our work with Maryland homeowners just like you.
4. How Will You Protect My Property During the Job?
A roof replacement is a construction zone. Don’t assume your contractor will protect your gutters, siding, landscaping, or driveway—ask how they plan to do it.
Look for answers like:
- Use of tarps to protect plants and exterior finishes
- Magnetic nail sweepers for post-job cleanup
- Daily debris management
Bottom line: You shouldn’t have to deal with a mess or damage when the job is done. MARS Restoration treats your property with the same care we give our own homes.
5. Who’s Supervising the Project and Managing Communication?
You need to know who’s in charge. Who do you call if something goes wrong? Who’s answering your questions?
Ask:
- Will there be a dedicated project manager?
- Will the crew be company employees or subcontractors?
- How will I receive updates?
A reliable roofing contractor has structured systems and designated contacts. If the answer sounds vague, it probably is.
6. What’s Included in the Estimate and How Does Payment Work?
This is where too many homeowners get burned. An estimate should be detailed and transparent—not a scribbled total on a napkin.
You should see:
- Material types and quantities
- Labor costs
- Tear-off and disposal
- Cleanup
- Payment schedule
And let’s be clear: Never pay in full up front. A typical structure might include a deposit, a mid-project payment, and a final balance upon completion.
Want tips for finding a roofing contractor who’s honest about pricing? Look for someone who answers this question clearly and backs it up with documentation.
Bonus Tips for Finding a Roofing Contractor in Maryland
- Stick with local contractors—they know Maryland’s codes, climate, and permitting requirements.
- Check their rating with the Better Business Bureau.
- Ask if they offer 24/7 emergency repairs (you’ll want that if a storm hits unexpectedly).
- Look for roofing pros who offer storm damage assistance—without using misleading insurance claims language in marketing (it’s the law!).
MARS Restoration checks all the boxes, from expert crews and lifetime warranties to fair, transparent pricing.
Protect Your Roof, Protect Your Wallet
Let’s be honest—hiring a contractor is a risk if you don’t do your homework. But with the right questions, you flip the script. You take control. You protect your home and your money.
We’re here to make that easier for you. At MARS Restoration, we believe in empowering homeowners through education and honest, high-quality work.
Ready to get answers? Give us a call at 240-319-7311 or email info@marsrestoration.com to schedule a free, no-pressure consultation.
Your home deserves the best—and so do you.