You’ve had a roofer out, and now there’s a contract in front of you. It’s a lot of money, the pages are full of terms you don’t use every day, and you’re not sure what you should be asking before you sign. Working with roofing contractors in Kansas City goes a lot smoother when you know what a good project looks like from the first visit to the final cleanup.
Most homeowners only replace a roof once or twice in their lives. It’s normal to feel like you’re at a disadvantage. You shouldn’t have to be.
APC Roofing has been a roofing contractor since 2017, with an office in Shawnee, Kansas. We’re GAF Certified, licensed and insured, and our inspections and estimates are free. Here’s what you should expect from any contractor you hire, us included.
The first visit should be an inspection, not a pitch
A good roofing contractor looks before they quote. That means getting on the roof when it’s safe, checking the attic for stains and ventilation problems and taking photos. You should see those photos and hear what they mean in plain language.
If the roof only needs a repair, a good contractor tells you so. If someone recommends a full replacement without showing you why, ask to see the evidence.
What good roofing contractors in Kansas City put in writing
A clear estimate lets you understand exactly what you’re buying. Look for:
- The scope: repair, full tear-off and replacement, or overlay
- The shingle or roofing product by brand and line, plus color
- Underlayment, and where ice and water barrier will be installed
- Whether flashing, pipe boots and drip edge are new or reused
- How damaged decking will be handled if it’s found during tear-off
- Ventilation work, if any
- Gutters, siding or other exterior work, if included
- Cleanup and disposal of the old roof
- Warranty information for materials and workmanship
- Payment terms
If something isn’t written down, ask about it. Verbal promises are easy to forget on both sides.
Before work starts
Your contractor should tell you roughly when the job is scheduled and what weather will push it back. Many cities in the metro require a permit for a re-roof, so ask who’s pulling it. Usually it’s the contractor.
You’ll also want to know what to do to get ready. Move cars out of the driveway, take fragile items off the walls (hammering shakes the house more than people expect) and keep pets inside. Our post on how to prepare your home for a roof installation has a short list.
During the job
On a replacement, the old roof comes off, the deck gets checked and repaired, and the new layers go on in order. Many residential projects are finished in a single day. Bigger or more complex roofs take longer.
If the crew finds rotted decking or something else hidden under the old shingles, your contractor should tell you before doing extra work and explain how it affects the cost. Surprises happen on roofs. Surprise bills shouldn’t.
After the job
When the work is done, the yard and driveway should be cleaned up and the old materials hauled away. Walk the property with your contractor if you can, and ask for photos of the finished roof. Keep the paperwork, including warranty information, with your home records. It’s useful for insurance and when you sell.
Insurance projects
If your roof was damaged by hail or wind, insurance may help pay for the work. You file the claim with your insurer and you pay your deductible. Your contractor documents the damage, provides the estimate and works with your adjuster. Be wary of any contractor who offers to waive or cover your deductible, or who asks you to sign over control of your claim. You can read more on our insurance roof claims page.
How it works with APC Roofing
- Book your free inspection. Call 913-398-5020 or request a free online estimate.
- Get a clear, honest assessment and estimate. You get photos of your roof and a written estimate that spells out materials and scope.
- Get the work done and the site cleaned up. The crew does the work you agreed to and cleans up before leaving.
Financing is available through Aqua Finance, Fortifi, Hearth and Home Run Finance.
Questions about roofing contractors
What questions should I ask a roofing contractor before signing?
Ask about licensing and insurance, who will be doing the work, how hidden damage is handled and priced, what warranties apply and how cleanup works. Our list of questions to ask your roofer before signing anything is a good starting point.
Should I pay the full amount up front?
Be cautious about paying the full amount before any work begins. Read the payment terms in your contract and ask questions before you sign.
Does the contractor need a permit for a new roof?
Many cities in the metro require one for a re-roof. Ask your contractor whether your project needs a permit and who will pull it.
How is a roofing contractor different from a roofing company?
People use the words interchangeably. If you’re still comparing your options, our page on roofing companies in Kansas City covers how to vet them.
Sign with confidence
A clear contract protects you and the roofer. Unclear ones are where most disagreements start.
You want to hand over the deposit knowing what’s going to happen and when, then come home to a finished roof and a clean yard. Call 913-398-5020 to book your free inspection, or start online.
