Don’t Get Burned by Cheap Roofing Bids: 7 Questions to Ask Any Contractor Before You Sign

furyroofing • August 11, 2025

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When it comes to roof repairs or replacements, most homeowners are looking for two things: quality work and a fair price. But in Utah Valley, we’ve seen a growing number of cases where low-cost bids lead to expensive problems. What starts out looking like a great deal often ends in roof leaks, failed inspections, or even legal issues, especially when the work isn’t done by a licensed and insured roofing contractor. Whether you need work done on your home or a commercial property, choosing a licensed and insured roofing contractor is the best way to protect your investment and avoid costly mistakes.

Fury Roofing is a locally rooted company that has worked with homeowners across Utah Valley to repair the damage left behind by underqualified crews. We’re licensed, fully insured, and committed to doing the job right the first time, offering licensed and insured roofing contractor services that protect your home from costly mistakes.

The Hidden Cost of a Low Bid

Roofing is not the kind of project where you want to take shortcuts. When a bid comes in much lower than the others, it usually means you’re not getting the same scope of work. Some important steps may be skipped, either to cut corners or because the contractor isn’t licensed or insured in the first place.

Those low numbers often skip things like pulling the right permits, having a licensed professional oversee the crew, or carrying proper liability and workers’ compensation insurance. They might not include warranties on materials or labor, debris removal after the job, or someone to manage the project from start to finish. In some cases, cheaper bids even mean lower quality materials that won’t hold up over time.

Most of these cut-rate bids come from people working off the books, without the certifications or protections that safeguard you as a homeowner. If something goes wrong, whether someone gets hurt, your roof starts leaking, or an inspector finds a violation, you could be stuck with the bill. We’ve seen many homeowners pay twice: once for the budget job, then again to have it fixed by a licensed and insured roofing contractor.

A Real-Life Scenario: What a Cheap Bid Really Means

Imagine this: you receive three roofing quotes. Two are around $12,000 and include everything: permits, warranties, and cleanup. The third comes in at just $7,500. It sounds like a great deal. The contractor says he “has a guy,” promises quick work, and skips the paperwork.

At first, everything seemed fine. But then:

  • The crew shows up with no uniforms or branded vehicles
  • No city permit is on file
  • Shingle scraps and nails are left scattered around the yard
  • A month later, the roof starts leaking near your fireplace
  • You try calling the number from the quote, but it’s no longer in service

In the end, you’ll need a licensed and insured roofing contractor to inspect the damage and fix what should have been done correctly the first time. That $4,500 you thought you saved is gone, and the crew who did the work is nowhere to be found.

Why Hiring a Licensed and Insured Roofing Contractor Matters

In Utah, roofing contractors are required to hold a valid license and carry proper insurance. But not every crew advertising their services follows those rules. Some work without licenses, and others rely on subcontractors who have no coverage at all. That may not seem like a major concern, until something goes wrong.

When you hire a licensed and insured roofing contractor, you’re protecting yourself and your home. Workers’ compensation insurance covers injuries that happen on your property, so you aren’t responsible for medical bills or legal complications. Liability insurance protects your home in case materials cause damage or a crew member makes an irreversible mistake. A valid license confirms that the contractor has passed state exams, understands local building codes, and is qualified to manage your project from start to finish.

You also don’t have to worry about navigating permits or inspections on your own. Licensed professionals handle that process for you, keeping your project compliant and on schedule. And if something goes wrong after the job is done, you have recourse. A licensed contractor is accountable by law and through documented insurance policies.

At Fury Roofing, we meet all licensing requirements, carry full insurance, and stay current with building codes in every Utah Valley city we serve. We take responsibility for the work from your free roofing estimate to the final nail.

7 Smart Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Roofing Contractor

Not sure where to begin when comparing roofing bids? These questions will help you spot the difference between a trustworthy professional and a risky shortcut.

1. Can I see your license and proof of insurance?

Always ask for the contractor’s license number and a certificate of insurance. A reputable roofing company will provide this without hesitation. If they can’t, move on.

2. Will you handle all permits and inspections?

Permits exist to protect you as a homeowner. If a contractor tells you they aren’t needed, that is a major red flag. A licensed and insured roofing contractor will always include permitting and inspections as part of the job.

3. Who will actually be working on my roof?

Ask if the crew is made up of full-time employees or subcontractors. If subs are involved, make sure they’re also properly licensed and insured.

4. Can you provide recent local references or Google reviews?

Look for recent, verifiable testimonials especially from homeowners in your area. Search on Google or the Better Business Bureau to see how the company handles real projects.

5. What exactly does your quote include?

Request a detailed, written estimate that clearly outlines materials, labor, cleanup, and the project timeline. Verbal quotes or vague pricing can lead to costly surprises.

6. Do you offer a warranty on materials and labor?

Ask how long the workmanship is covered and what kind of manufacturer warranties are included. If it’s not in writing, it may not be honored.

7. How do you handle clean-up and post-job inspections?

The best roofing contractors leave your yard and driveway spotless. They should also walk the project with you at the end to make sure everything meets your expectations.

How to Compare Roofing Bids the Right Way

Once you have a few estimates in hand, the real work begins with figuring out which one gives you the best value. A low number might grab your attention, but it does not always mean you are saving money. The goal is to find a bid that is fair, complete, and backed by a licensed and insured roofing contractor you trust.

Start by looking at what is actually included in your bid. Are the materials the same quality? Does each bid cover underlayment, flashing, permits, cleanup, and warranties? If one skips these essentials, it may look cheaper now but cost you more down the road.

Next, think about the people who will be on your roof. A licensed and insured roofing contractor will be upfront about their crew, their timeline, and whether the workers are employees or subcontractors. Knowing who is on the job and how long it will take makes the process smoother and gives you peace of mind.

When you compare bids side by side, the right choice often stands out. Look for the contractor who offers solid materials, clear communication, fair pricing, and a proven track record of doing the job right the first time. That is the bid that will protect both your home and your budget.

How to Spot a Red Flag Roofing Bid

Not every roofing bid is a good deal, and some warning signs are easier to spot than others. If you run into certain red flags during the estimate process, there’s a good chance you’re not dealing with a licensed and insured roofing contractor. These issues often point to poor workmanship, code violations, and a lack of accountability if something goes wrong.

Watch out for contractors who:

  • Refuse to give you a written estimate
  • Ask for full payment upfront
  • Avoid showing proof of licensing or insurance
  • Tell you permits aren’t necessary

When the process feels rushed, unclear, or lacking professionalism, it’s time to walk away. A reputable roofing company will be transparent, patient, and willing to answer every question before you sign a contract.

What to Expect from a Licensed and Insured Roofing Contractor

When you hire a professional roofing contractor like Fury Roofing, you can expect a smooth and reliable experience from start to finish. We begin with a clear, detailed estimate so you know exactly what the project involves. Our licensed and insured crews arrive on time, handle all required permits and inspections, and keep the lines of communication open throughout the job. We take care of debris cleanup before leaving and walk the finished project with you to make sure every detail meets your expectations. All of our work is backed by strong warranties on both materials and craftsmanship, giving you complete confidence in the roof over your head. This commitment to quality is why homeowners across Utah County trust us to get the job done right the first time.

Local Expertise You Can Count On

Fury Roofing is proud to serve the same Utah Valley communities we call home. Whether you live in Spanish Fork, American Fork, Payson, or Draper, we understand the specific building codes, permit requirements, and weather challenges that can and will affect your roof. Snow loads in the winter, high winds in the spring, and intense summer heat can all shorten a roof’s lifespan if the wrong materials or installation methods are used. Our team knows how to address these seasonal extremes with products and techniques that are proven to hold up in the valley.

Because we are a licensed and insured roofing contractor with deep roots here, we know which suppliers provide the most durable shingles, underlayment, and flashing for Utah’s climate. We also stay up to date on local inspection trends, so there are no surprises that delay your project. From material selection to the final inspection, we combine local insight with professional standards to give you a roof built to last and backed by the accountability you deserve.

Get Expert Advice from a Licensed and Insured Roofing Contractor

Before you choose a contractor, take a few minutes to speak with a licensed and insured roofing contractor who does the job the right way. Fury Roofing offers no-obligation evaluations to help you understand what your roof truly needs, with no pressure and no sales pitch. We’ll walk you through the findings in plain language and explain your options so you can make a confident decision for your home.

Choosing the right roofing team is about more than getting the lowest price. It’s about trust, accountability, and knowing the people working on your home meet the highest professional standards. That’s the level of care we bring to every project, and it’s why homeowners across Utah Valley call us when they want the job done right the first time.

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