★ Quick Answer
The contractor selection conversation lasts about 30 minutes. The mistakes you make in that 30 minutes can cost $10,000+.
The contractor selection conversation lasts about 30 minutes. The mistakes you make in that 30 minutes can cost $10,000+. Here are the 10 questions every Austin homeowner should ask — and what a legitimate answer looks like.
30 min
Avg vetting time
Less than the time to pick a restaurant
$13,840
Median project value
Median Austin roof replacement
The 10 Questions
| Question | Good Answer | Walk-Away Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Texas business registration number? | Provides number, can be verified at sos.state.tx.us | Vague answer, can't produce |
| 2. Current general liability insurance? | $1M+ certificate available from carrier | "Of course" with no documentation |
| 3. Worker's compensation certificate? | Active TX cert or qualified exemption | "All our crews are independent contractors" |
| 4. GAF Master Elite / OC Preferred? | Current certification, provides number | "GAF certified" (basic, not Master Elite) |
| 5. Years operating in Austin under this name? | 5+ years, same business entity | Recent registration, name changes |
| 6. Three local references from last 12 months? | Names, addresses, willing for you to call | "I can send you our website testimonials" |
| 7. Written warranty (materials AND workmanship)? | 5-25 years workmanship, in writing | "Yes" without specifics |
| 8. Payment schedule? | 10-20% deposit, progress after tear-off, balance on completion | 50%+ upfront, full payment before start |
| 9. Will you pull the permit? | Yes — included in price | "Permits are optional in your area" |
| 10. Detailed written scope before signing? | Yes — itemized scope with materials, scope, warranty | One-page contract with vague scope |
A contractor who can't produce documentation for any of the first 4 questions on the spot is not a real Texas business — they are a storm chaser shell company.
Three Bonus Questions That Filter the Best from the Rest
- What is your plan if my roof has rotted decking? Look for: specific price per sheet ($80-$150), pre-approved scope supplement language. Avoid: "We'll figure it out" or "That's extra."
- If insurance denies code-required upgrades, who pays? Look for: specific code endorsement strategy, ordinance & law coverage knowledge. Avoid: shrug.
- What does your magnetic nail sweep procedure look like? Look for: 2-3 passes across the entire yard and driveway. Avoid: "We'll get the big ones."
The right contractor will welcome these questions. A legitimate Austin roofer with proper credentials gets asked these all the time and has documentation ready. If your questions create friction, you have your answer.