Choosing a Roofing Contractor in Colorado Springs: 10 Questions to Ask
Choosing a roofing contractor in Colorado Springs isn't like hiring a painter — your roof protects everything underneath it. A bad roofing job can lead to leaks, mold, structural damage, and a voided manufacturer warranty. Here are the 10 questions every Colorado Springs homeowner should ask before signing a contract.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Colorado?
Colorado doesn't require a state-level roofing license, but most municipalities — including Colorado Springs — require a business license. Ask for proof of general liability insurance ($1M minimum) and workers' compensation. If a worker falls off your roof and the company isn't insured, you could be liable.
2. Do You Have a Physical Office in Colorado Springs?
Storm chasers set up temporary shop after every hail storm, then disappear. A legitimate local roofer has a physical address in the Pikes Peak region, not a P.O. box or an out-of-state license plate. They'll be here to honor your warranty in 5 years when a leak develops.
3. Are You a Certified Installer?
Top manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed certify installers who meet training and quality standards. Certified contractors can offer enhanced warranties that cover materials AND labor — sometimes up to 50 years. Ask which certifications they hold and verify on the manufacturer's website.
4. Will You Inspect the Decking?
A proper roof replacement includes a full tear-off and decking inspection. If your roofer plans to overlay new shingles on old ones without inspecting the wood underneath, find another contractor. Rotted decking, improper nailing, and missing ice & water shield can't be fixed with an overlay.
5. Do You Install Ice & Water Shield?
Colorado building codes require ice and water shield membrane at eaves, valleys, and around penetrations. This self-sealing membrane prevents ice dams and wind-driven rain from getting under your shingles. If your contractor says it's "optional," walk away — it's code-required in Colorado Springs.
6. What's Your Warranty — and Who Backs It?
There are two warranties: the manufacturer's material warranty (typically 25-50 years for shingles) and the contractor's workmanship warranty (typically 2-10 years). Get both in writing. Ask: if you go out of business, who covers the workmanship warranty? This is why manufacturer-certified installers matter — they can offer warranties backed by the manufacturer, not just the contractor.
7. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues?
Once the old roof comes off, expect surprises — rotted decking, inadequate ventilation, or code violations from the previous installation. Your contract should specify how change orders are priced (by square foot for decking, by unit for vents) so you're not hit with an inflated surprise bill.
8. Who Will Be On-Site During the Job?
Will the owner or a project manager be present? Who do you call if there's an issue at 2 PM? A professional roofing company has a designated point of contact on-site every day of the project.
9. How Do You Protect My Property?
Roofing generates debris — thousands of nails, old shingles, and dust. Ask about their cleanup process: tarps to protect landscaping, magnetic sweepers for nails, and daily debris removal. A sloppy crew leaves nails in your driveway and your kids' bare feet find them. A professional crew leaves your property cleaner than they found it.
10. Can I See Recent Local References?
Ask for addresses of completed Colorado Springs roofing projects you can drive by, not just online reviews. Look at the roof lines, flashing work, and overall appearance. Talk to neighbors if possible. A confident contractor is proud to show off their work.
Skip the Legwork — We'll Match You
Instead of cold-calling a dozen roofers and playing 20 questions, fill out one form. We'll match you with 2-3 vetted, certified, insured Colorado Springs roofing contractors who meet all the criteria above. Compare quotes, ask questions, and choose — no pressure, no obligation. Get matched today.