Your Roof Deserves the Right Hands
Hiring a roofer isn’t something most homeowners do often—but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make for your home. A roof protects everything beneath it: your family, belongings, and the investment you’ve worked so hard for.
But how do you know who to trust with so many “roofing services near me” showing up online? The wrong choice can leave you with poor workmanship, surprise costs, or even legal trouble if the contractor isn’t adequately insured.
At Wonderlin Roofing Systems, we’ve seen it all in our 30+ years serving Castro Valley homeowners. We believe roofing should be stress-free, so we’re sharing the most important questions you should ask before hiring any roofer.
These questions will help you feel confident, protect your home, and avoid costly mistakes.
Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
The first question you should always ask is whether the roofer is licensed, bonded, and insured. In California, contractors must be certified by the Contractors’ State License Board (CSLB).
Why this matters:
- Licensing shows the contractor has met state requirements and passed exams.
- Bonding gives you financial protection if the roofer doesn’t complete the work.
- Insurance—both liability and workers’ comp—protects you from being held responsible if someone gets hurt on your property.
A trustworthy roofer won’t hesitate to show proof. If a contractor can’t provide documentation, that’s a red flag.
- Licensing shows the contractor has met state requirements and passed exams.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience is one of the strongest indicators of reliability. Roofing isn’t just about roof and nails—it’s about knowing how different materials perform in your local climate, spotting hidden damage, and solving problems that only appear once the old roof is removed.
Questions to ask:
- How long have you served this community?
- Can you share recent projects similar to mine?
- Do you have repeat customers?
Wonderlin Roofing has served Castro Valley and Hayward for over 30 years, and we’ve roofed homes on nearly every street in our community. That kind of track record is worth its weight in peace of mind.
What’s Included in My Estimate?
A good roofer provides more than a number on a piece of paper. Your estimate should be detailed and itemized, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
What a precise estimate should include:
- Tear-off and disposal of the old roofing
- Type of underlayment, flashing, and ventilation systems
- Details on gutters or solar integration (if applicable)
- Clean-up and site protection
- Warranty coverage
- Clear terms for hidden damage repairs—Dry rot and other structural issues are often hidden until the roof is removed. We don’t guess or inflate. Our contract spells out a fair hourly labor rate and materials costs for uncovered repairs. Be cautious of vague estimates—if it’s not in writing, you could be at the roofer’s mercy when it matters most.
Pro Tip: Ask for a written estimate—not just a verbal one. If a roofer pressures you to sign a contract quickly or won’t explain what’s included, walk away.
Who Will Be On-Site During the Project?
When you hire a roofer, you’re not just hiring the person who gave you the estimate—you’re hiring their crew. Knowing who will work on your home and who’s responsible for overseeing the job is essential.
Questions to ask:
- Will the company owner or a dedicated project manager supervise?
- How experienced is the crew?
- How will I be updated if issues arise?
Your home deserves a team that treats it with care. That means showing up on time, respecting your property, keeping the site clean, and ensuring the work is done correctly.
What Warranties Do You Offer?
Roofing isn’t just about the installation day—it’s about protecting your home for decades. That’s why warranties are so important.
There are two main types:
- Manufacturer warranties – Cover defects in roofing materials.
- Workmanship warranties – Cover the installation and labor.
What to ask:
- How long does each warranty last?
- What exactly does it cover—and what’s excluded?
- Who do I contact if I need service under warranty?
A reputable roofer will stand behind both their materials and their workmanship. If they don’t offer a warranty, that’s a sign they may not be confident in their work.
Hire a Roofer with Confidence
Your roof is too important to gamble on. By asking the right questions—about licensing, experience, estimates, crews, and warranties—you can separate trustworthy professionals from those who cut corners.
At Wonderlin Roofing, our promise is simple: “Trust Built on Generations. Roofing Made Stress-Free.” For over three decades, we’ve protected Castro Valley homes with honest advice, skilled craftsmanship, and a commitment to doing right by our neighbors.
FAQs
Why shouldn’t I just choose the cheapest roofer?
Because cheap bids often mean cheap materials, unskilled labor, or missing insurance, your roof is an investment—choosing quality now prevents expensivee repairs later.
How do I find reliable roofing services near me?
Start by searching locally for licensed contractors with long histories in your community. Read reviews, ask neighbors, and check the CSLB website to confirm licenses.
How soon should I replace my roof after noticing damage?
Don’t wait. Even small leaks can cause major structural problems. Contact a licensed roofer immediately for an inspection and clear recommendations.