How to Choose the Right Roofing Company in Andover: 5 Questions to Ask

Finding the right roofing company in Andover can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack—especially when every contractor promises to be “the best in town.” 🏠
But your roof isn’t something you gamble with. One mistake up there can turn into a nightmare inside your home — leaks, mold, sagging insulation, and repair bills that climb faster than your roofer’s ladder.

So before you sign anything, take a breath. Grab a coffee. Let’s walk through five questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a roofer in Andover, Massachusetts.

1. Are You Licensed and Fully Insured in Massachusetts?

If a contractor can’t hand you proof of a Massachusetts roofing license, that’s your red flag waving in the wind.

Ask to see:

• Contractor license number (verify at Mass.gov)
• Workers’ comp certificate
• General liability insurance (covering at least $1M)

These aren’t “extras” — they’re protection for your home and your wallet. A legit Andover roofing contractor won’t flinch when you ask for proof. In fact, they’ll probably have it ready.

⚙️ Pro tip: Verify the business name matches the insurance certificate exactly. Many shady operators work under different names to dodge accountability.

2. How Much Experience Do You Have With Homes Like Mine in Andover?

Andover homes have character — steep roofs, skylights, dormers, and a lot of colonial charm. That also means they’re not cookie-cutter jobs.

Ask your roofer:

• “Have you worked in my neighborhood before?”
• “Can I see photos or addresses of past projects?”

Local experience means they understand ice dams, storm damage, and how to handle roofs under heavy snow loads — problems common in New England weather.

A good answer sounds like:

“We’ve re-roofed about a dozen homes around Phillips Academy and the Shawsheen area — mostly asphalt and metal systems with CertainTeed and GAF warranties.”

That’s someone who’s been up there, not just talking about it.

3. What Roofing Materials and Installation Standards Do You Follow?

This is where you separate real professionals from the weekend warriors.
An experienced roofer should explain:

• The brand of shingles (GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning)
• The underlayment type (synthetic vs. felt)
• Use of ice and water shield around eaves and valleys
• How they handle flashing installation and roof ventilation

Ask whether they’re a GAF Certified Contractor or CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator — both indicate training and warranty backing.

🧠 Remember: The best roofing company doesn’t just sell shingles. They sell a roof system designed for Andover’s freeze-thaw cycles.

4. How Do You Handle Warranties, Cleanup, and Project Changes?

Warranties aren’t just marketing fluff — they’re your long-term insurance policy.

Your roofer should clearly outline:

• Manufacturer warranty (covers materials)
• Workmanship warranty (covers installation issues)
• Cleanup plan: tarp placement, magnetic nail sweeps, dumpster logistics

If you get vague promises like “Don’t worry, we handle it all,” push for written details. You’re not being difficult — you’re being smart.

📎 Local tip: Ask if they register the manufacturer warranty on your behalf. It’s a small step most homeowners forget.

5. Can You Provide a Detailed, Itemized Estimate?

If a roofer slides a single lump-sum quote across the table, that’s a hard no. You need an itemized estimate breaking down:

• Tear-off and disposal
• Sheathing repair (per sheet cost)
• Underlayment and ventilation
• Flashing and ridge caps
• Labor and permit fees

This clarity helps you compare roofing companies in Andover apples-to-apples.
Without it, you’ll never know if the cheaper bid just skipped a few crucial steps.

Bonus: Red Flags to Watch For 🚫

• Cash-only “discounts”
• No written contract
• Unmarked trucks or out-of-state plates
• Pushy door-to-door sales after storms