Your roof is more than just a covering—it’s a critical shield protecting your home from rain, wind, and extreme weather.
When you hire a roofing contractor, you’re not just selecting a company name; you’re choosing the people who will climb onto your roof and install this vital component.
But who are these people? Are they dedicated employees of the company you hired, or are they subcontractors brought in for the job?
The answer can significantly impact the quality, durability, and longevity of your roof.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why it matters who installs your roof, the differences between employees and subcontractors, and the essential questions you should ask to ensure a high-quality installation.
Whether you’re replacing an aging roof or repairing storm damage, understanding who’s doing the work is key to protecting your home and investment.When you hire a roofing contractor, you’re not just hiring a name—you’re hiring the people who will be on your roof.
Who is actually going to install my roof?
Are they employees of the company you hired, or are they subcontractors brought in just for the job? Are they paid hourly, where they have the time to do it right, or piecework, where speed may come before quality?
Companies that use their own employees are often investing in long-term relationships. That means:
- They’ve been trained to company standards
- They’re accountable to internal supervisors
- They’ve likely worked together as a crew, creating efficiency and consistency
- They’re covered by company insurance, protecting the homeowner
Hourly employees typically have the time to focus on details—like flashing, vent installation, and underlayment. Pieceworkers, on the other hand, may be under pressure to move fast. And on a roof, speed and quality don’t always mix well.
- They can’t always ensure uniform quality
- Supervision and communication become harder to manage
- Accountability suffers, especially if a repair is needed later
As many contractors will tell you, getting subcontractors to deliver consistent results is tough. They may bounce between companies, follow different methods, or simply not share the same sense of pride in the job.
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Don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions:
- Are the installers employees or subcontractors?
- Are they trained and certified?
- Are they insured under your company’s policy?
- Are they paid hourly or by the piece?
- Who will be on-site supervising the work?
Choosing a roofing contractor is about more than just picking a company—it’s about ensuring the people installing your roof are qualified, accountable, and committed to quality.
While both employees and subcontractors can deliver excellent results, companies with in-house crews often provide greater consistency, oversight, and peace of mind.
By asking the right questions, using the provided checklist, and watching for red flags, you can select a contractor who will protect your home with a durable, well-installed roof.
Before you hire a roofing contractor, make sure you ask the right questions about who will actually be doing the work. This checklist will help you get clear answers—and peace of mind.
🔍 Installer Status
- Are the workers employees of the company?
- Or are they subcontractors brought in just for the job?
🧰 Training & Certification
- Are the installers trained to company standards?
- Are they certified by roofing material manufacturers?
- Is their training current and verified?
🛡 Insurance Coverage
- Are the workers covered under the company’s insurance policy?
- Will I receive a certificate of insurance before work begins?
💵 Compensation Method
- Are the workers paid hourly (encourages quality)?
- Or are they paid by the piece (may encourage rushing)?
👷♂️ Supervision & Accountability
- Who is the on-site supervisor?
- Will the owner or project manager be available if issues arise?
- How is quality control maintained throughout the job?
📞 Past Performance
- Can I speak with past customers about the crew’s performance?
- Have they worked in my neighborhood or town before?
🚩 Red Flags to Watch For
- No clear answer about who’s doing the work
- No proof of insurance or vague coverage
- No visible supervision on the job
- Workers showing up in unmarked vehicles or with different logos
Remember: You’re not just hiring a company name—you’re hiring the team that will protect your home. A reputable contractor will answer these questions clearly and confidently.