How to Choose a Roofer in San Antonio: A Practical Checklist

A verbal number is not an estimate. Ask for a written estimate that lists the roofing material and type, whether the old roof is being torn off, how many layers, underlayment, drip edge, flashing, vents, pipe boots and ridge cap. It should also say how damaged decking will be handled and priced if it is found once the old roof comes off.

Get more than one estimate if you can, and compare scope before price. When one bid is much lower than the others, something is usually missing: no tear-off, no new flashing, cheaper underlayment or vents left out entirely.

Ask for addresses or photos of recent roofs in your area, and if possible, contact a couple of past customers. A roofer who has been working in San Antonio and South Texas for years should be able to point to roofs nearby.

Read online reviews, but read them carefully. Look at how the contractor responds to complaints, not just the star rating. A local roofer with a long history in the area has more reason to stand behind the work than a crew that followed the last storm into town.

Some companies sell the job and then pass it to whatever subcontractor is available that week. Ask directly: who will be doing the installation, who is in charge on site, and who you call if you have a question during the job.

Being able to talk with the person who runs the crew makes a big difference. Questions get answered faster and nothing gets lost between the salesperson and the installers. If you or someone in your family is more comfortable in Spanish, ask whether the contractor can communicate in your language.

Texas does not have a statewide license for residential roofing contractors, so homeowners need to do a bit more checking on their own. Ask each roofer what credentials and coverage they carry, ask for proof in writing and confirm it directly with the issuing company or organization.

Some cities require permits for roof replacement. Ask whether a permit is needed for your address and who is responsible for pulling it. For questions about your rights as a consumer, the Texas Attorney General's office publishes guidance for homeowners hiring contractors, especially after storms.

If the job is part of an insurance claim, remember that your policy, your adjuster and your deductible are between you and your insurance company. Be wary of any contractor who offers to waive or absorb your deductible.

Tearing off a roof creates a lot of debris: old shingles, nails, flashing and wood. Ask how the crew protects landscaping, AC units and driveways, whether they use a dumpster or trailer, and how they clean up nails from the yard at the end.

A contractor who takes cleanup seriously usually takes the rest of the job seriously too. It is a fair question, and a good roofer will have a clear answer.

Get the payment schedule in writing: how much is due and when, and what forms of payment are accepted. Be cautious of anyone asking for the full amount upfront before materials are delivered or work begins.

Ask for a written receipt for every payment. Clear terms protect both you and the contractor and prevent misunderstandings at the end of the job.

Be careful with high-pressure door knockers after a storm, offers that are only good if you sign today, contractors with no local phone number or history, bids far below everyone else and anyone unwilling to put the scope in writing.

At Alanis Roofing, Andres Alanis has 26 years in roofing and has run his own crew for 13 of them, based in Devine and working across San Antonio and South Texas. Estimates are free with no fee for the visit, we respond the same day, you talk with Andres directly in English or Spanish, and we clean up the site when the job is done. We accept cash, check and Zelle. Call or text (210) 318-9811 to set up your free estimate.