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(505) 595-7203
Roof Doctor NM
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15 questions to ask any roofer before you sign

Print this. Take it to every bid meeting. The questions themselves are worth more than most 'free inspections' — and any contractor who resents you asking them has just told you everything you need to know.

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  1. 01
    How long has your company been operating in New Mexico under this exact name?
    Why it matters:NM UV and monsoon patterns break roofs differently. Local track record matters.
    Red flag:Vague answers, recent name changes, or 'we just opened an office here.'
  2. 02
    Can I see your certificate of insurance — general liability AND workers' comp?
    Why it matters:If a crew member is hurt on your roof without WC, YOU can be liable.
    Red flag:Only general liability, expired dates, or 'we'll email it after we start.'
  3. 03
    Who is the actual crew doing my roof — employees or a subcontracted crew?
    Why it matters:Sub crews are common and fine, but you need to know who's accountable for workmanship.
    Red flag:'Don't worry about it' or refusal to answer.
  4. 04
    What underlayment are you installing, by product name?
    Why it matters:Underlayment is the difference between a 10-year roof and a 25-year roof. 'Synthetic' is not a spec.
    Red flag:Can't name a manufacturer or product line.
  5. 05
    How are you flashing the chimney, valleys, and wall abutments?
    Why it matters:80% of leaks start at flashings. Caulk is not flashing.
    Red flag:Answers involving 'we just caulk it' or 'reuse the existing flashing.'
  6. 06
    What is the exact nail pattern and fastener type per shingle?
    Why it matters:Manufacturer warranties are voided by wrong fastener counts. NM high-wind zones need 6 nails, not 4.
    Red flag:'Whatever code says' without knowing the code.
  7. 07
    How are you handling ventilation — intake AND exhaust?
    Why it matters:Under-vented attics cook shingles from below. Ridge vent alone without soffit intake is worse than nothing.
    Red flag:'Your existing vents are fine' without inspecting them.
  8. 08
    Are you pulling a permit? Who pulls it?
    Why it matters:In most NM jurisdictions the contractor pulls the permit. If they push it on you, that's a red flag.
    Red flag:'You don't really need a permit' or 'you pull it yourself.'
  9. 09
    What is your workmanship warranty in writing — years, transferable, exclusions?
    Why it matters:Manufacturer warranty covers materials. Workmanship warranty is what covers install mistakes.
    Red flag:'Lifetime' with no paperwork, or under 2 years.
  10. 10
    How do you handle change orders if you find rotten decking?
    Why it matters:Decking replacement is priced per sheet ($75–$150). You want a written per-sheet rate BEFORE the job starts.
    Red flag:'We'll figure it out when we see it.'
  11. 11
    When do you require payment — deposit, milestone, or completion?
    Why it matters:NM norm: 10-30% deposit, balance on completion. Never pay in full before work.
    Red flag:'Full payment upfront' or 'cash-only discount.'
  12. 12
    Will you install exactly what's in the written scope, or are you proposing changes?
    Why it matters:If they want to swap materials from the scope, that's a re-bid, not a suggestion.
    Red flag:'This other product is basically the same' — it usually isn't.
  13. 13
    What manufacturer certifications does your company hold — and are they current?
    Why it matters:GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Preferred, etc. give access to extended warranties. Ask for the cert number.
    Red flag:Claims certification but can't produce a number or expiration.
  14. 14
    How do you protect landscaping, satellite dishes, and A/C units during tear-off?
    Why it matters:Debris and dropped tiles crack A/C coils and skylights. You want a written protection plan.
    Red flag:'We're careful' with no specifics.
  15. 15
    Who inspects the roof after installation, and can I get before/during/after photos?
    Why it matters:A quality-control walk with dated photos is your only defense if something fails at year 3.
    Red flag:No QC step, or 'the foreman signs off.'
Compiled by Roof Doctor NM · Independent NM roof inspector · (505) 595-7203 · roofdoctornm.com
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