What to ask before you sign anything

"What underlayment, and how are the valleys done?"

A contractor who enjoys this question is usually the one whose roof lasts. A contractor who deflects it to brand names is quoting a different job.

"What does your workmanship warranty cover, and for how long?"

Ask for it in writing, in the company name, with a term. Five to ten years is common; the term matters less than whether they will still be trading.

"What is your licence number, and who holds it?"

Then look it up. You are checking that the licence is current and that the name on it matches the name on the contract you are being asked to sign.

"Who is actually doing the work?"

Employees, or subcontractors? Both are fine, but subcontracted crews change who carries the workers compensation cover and who stands behind the workmanship warranty.

"What happens if the decking is rotten?"

You want a rate, not a reassurance. Some rot is likely on any older roof and the rate is the only thing that keeps that predictable.

"Can I see a job you finished five years ago?"

Anybody can show you a roof completed last month. A roof that has been through five winters shows how the edges, valleys and penetrations were actually detailed.

In short

Six questions, three contractors, one afternoon. It is the cheapest insurance available on a job this size.