How to Choose a Roofing Company in New Jersey

Choosing a roofing company in New Jersey starts with a few checks that take less than an hour but save a lot of trouble: confirm the contractor is registered with the state, ask how they handle your township's permit, and compare quotes line by line. New Jersey's older housing stock and its mix of nor'easters, freeze-thaw winters and humid summers mean the details of a roof replacement matter more than the brand of shingle on the estimate.

Confirm State Registration

New Jersey requires home improvement contractors, including roofers, to register with the Division of Consumer Affairs. Before you request a quote, look the company up in the state's online registration search to confirm the registration is active. Ask for the registration number on the written contract, and make sure the name on the contract matches the registered business.

Ask About Permits and Inspections

A roof replacement needs a construction permit from your municipality. Ask each bidder who files the application, which inspections your township requires, and how the inspection fits into the schedule. A contractor who is vague about permits is a warning sign, because unpermitted work can cause problems when you sell the house.

Look for Experience With Older Homes

Much of North and Central Jersey's housing was built before 1970, often with original sheathing, limited attic ventilation and, in many cases, two or three layers of shingles. Ask how the contractor handles a multi-layer tear-off, what they do if they find soft decking, and how they ventilate the attic. A good answer covers ice-and-water shield at the eaves and valleys, balanced soffit and ridge ventilation, and a decking allowance written into the estimate.

Compare Itemized Quotes

Ask for proposals that separate tear-off, disposal, decking, underlayment, flashing, ventilation and shingles. A typical asphalt shingle roof replacement in New Jersey runs about $8,000 to $15,000 depending on size, pitch and the number of layers. When you compare three bids, look for what is missing, not just the total: a lower quote that leaves out ice-and-water shield, new drip edge or a decking allowance is not really cheaper. If your gutters also need work, ask whether gutter installation or gutter guards can be done in the same project.

Check Past Work and the Written Warranty

Ask for the addresses of a few recent roof replacements so you can look at the ridge lines, valleys and flashing yourself. Read the warranty terms in writing: what the manufacturer covers, what workmanship is covered, for how long, and who you call if a problem appears after the first winter. Specific written terms are worth more than a verbal promise.

For more planning detail, see New Roof Cost in New Jersey and Roof Repair or Roof Replacement? Signs Your New Jersey Roof Is Done.

To schedule a free roof inspection and written estimate, call Colonial Roof Service at (877) 298-2340.