Before you hire a roofer in Texas: the 9 things to check.
Texas has no state roofing license, doesn't require contractors to carry workers' compensation, and gets more hail claims than any other state. That combination is why the worst roofers in America come here after every storm. Here's how to tell them from the good ones — in nine questions, most of which take a minute.
Proof of workers' compensation
Proof of workers' compensation
Get a free second opinion
Three facts every Texas homeowner should know before they sign.
Texas doesn't license roofing contractors. Anyone with a truck can call themselves a roofer, which is why credentials, insurance and reviews do the license's job here.
Texas is the only state where private employers can opt out. Most roofing crews have. Ask for the certificate — it's the fastest way to sort the professionals from the rest.
Since 2019 it's a criminal offense for a contractor to pay, rebate or absorb your insurance deductible. "We'll cover your deductible" is an offer to commit fraud with you.
Already have a quote? Let us give you the honest read before you sign.
Bring the other roofer's estimate. We grade the roof, tell you what on their list is real, what's padding and what's missing — in writing. If their price is fair, we'll say so.
Get a free second opinionThe printable checklist.
Nine boxes. Hand it to every roofer who quotes. The good ones will like it.
- Certificate of insurance with workers' comp , naming me as certificate holder
- Salesperson confirmed by the office , company name matches the contract
- Manufacturer credential verified on the source (the manufacturer / IKO / BBB)
- Recent reviews in my town ; BBB complaint history read
- Payment schedule in writing; no large deposit before materials arrive
- Line-item scope: products named , underlayment, ice & water, ventilation, nails per shingle
- Warranty document in hand before signing: non-prorated years, transfer, exclusions
- Own crews or subs? Who inspects the finished roof, against what checklist?
- A local office I can drive to ; years in this market; roofs done nearby
The other three questions every homeowner googles.
What does a new roof cost in San Antonio?
By size, pitch, material and what's under the old shingles. Real 2026 ranges.
Metal vs asphalt for a Texas roof
Hail, heat, resale and the 30-year math, without the sales pitch.
Repair or replace?
The four things that decide it — and how a Roof Grade settles the argument.
Know where
your roof stands.
The Roof Grade is free. The report is written.
What happens next is your decision.
- 32 inspection points, attic first
- 75–150 photos of what we find
- An honest, written recommendation