What are the most important questions to ask a roofing contractor?

Ask about licensing, insurance, experience, warranties, materials, and references. Get a detailed written estimate and verify that the contractor is certified for your roof type.

How much does a roofing contractor cost in the Wilmington area?

Costs vary by roof type, size, and damage. Typical residential roof replacements range from $8,000 to $15,000, while repairs can be $150 to $300 for minor issues. Commercial roofing can range from $800 to $2,500 for localized repairs.

Does homeowners insurance cover roof damage in coastal North Carolina?

Policies often cover sudden events like storms or hail, but not wear and tear. Your contractor can help you determine coverage and submit a claim with the necessary documentation.

How to Choose a Roofing Contractor in Wilmington, Supply & Brunswick County, NC

Learn the most important questions to ask, what to look for, and how to avoid scams when hiring a roofing contractor in the Wilmington, Supply, and Brunswick County areas.

Why a Local Roofing Contractor Matters in Wilmington, Supply & Brunswick County

Coastal North Carolina's weather—hurricanes, salt-laden breezes, and heavy summer rains—puts extra strain on roofs. A contractor who understands the region's specific challenges can prevent costly damage and extend your roof's lifespan. In Wilmington, Supply, and all of Brunswick County, the best roofing companies are those that have years of experience working with local materials, building codes, and the unique needs of our coastal homes.

The 15 Questions You Must Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

1. Are you licensed and insured in North Carolina?

A reputable contractor will display a valid NC roofing license and carry general liability, workers' comp, and builder's risk insurance. Ask for proof.

2. How long have you been in business?

Local expertise often comes from a history of working in the area. A contractor with 10+ years in the region knows common failure points and repair best practices.

3. Do you have North Carolina-specific references?

Request at least three recent local references (preferably homeowners in Wilmington or Brunswick County). Follow up with the references yourself.

Coastal winds favor metal or impact-rated shingles; older asphalt roofs may need replacement rather than repair.

5. Will you remove the old roof before installing a new one?

Removing the old layer ensures proper flashing, underlayment, and a clean surface for the new roof. Skipping this step can lead to premature failure.

6. What warranty do you offer on workmanship and materials?

Look for a written warranty covering both the contractor's labor and the manufacturer's product. A 5-year workmanship warranty is a good benchmark.

7. Can you provide a detailed written estimate?

A good estimate lists every material, the number of hours of labor, and the total price. Avoid contractors who give only a ballpark figure.

8. Do you use subcontractors, and are they licensed?

If you hire a general contractor, ensure any subcontractors they bring in are vetted and covered by your main contract.

9. What's your process for handling insurance claims?

A reliable contractor will help you file a claim, document damage, and coordinate with the adjuster without charging extra.

10. What time-of-day or season rates apply?

Emergency repairs (e.g., after a storm) usually cost more than scheduled work. Knowing the rate helps budget.

11. How do you protect my property during installation?

Look for tarps, walk-on pads, and careful handling of gutters, landscaping, and belongings.

12. Do you offer a post-project inspection?

A final walk-through ensures the work meets standards and any issues are corrected.

13. Can I see a copy of your permits?

Proper permits are required for roof replacements; the contractor should provide them.

14. Do you have a history of on-time completions?

Ask about typical project timelines—most residential roofs are finished in 1-3 days.

15. Are you certified for the roofing systems you install?

Look for certifications from manufacturers such as GAF, CertainTeed, or certified “Fortified” roofing programs.

What to Look For: Licenses, Insurance, & Experience

License: Search the N.C. State Board of Examiners for Contractors (“roofing contractor” license) to confirm it's active.
Insurance: A licensed contractor should carry a minimum of $500k general liability and workers' comp.
Experience: 10+ years in the area means they've seen the full cycle of coastal weather damage.
Warranty: A solid warranty protects you if problems arise within a year of installation.

Common Roof Problems in Wilmington, Supply & Brunswick County

Wind damage: Missing or curled shingles, lifted flashing.
Hail damage: Denting metal roofs, cracking asphalt tiles.
Moisture & mold: Leaks from faulty flashing or clogged gutters.
Salt corrosion: Metal gutters, fascia, and flashings deteriorate faster along the coast.

Recognizing these issues early lets you negotiate a fair repair price and avoid costly replacements.

Cost Breakdown for Typical Roofing Projects in the Region

Project	Average Cost Range (2026)	Notes
Small leak patch / few shingles	$150 - $300	Minor repairs within a day
Medium leak or roof section	$350 - $700	1-2 days of labor
Major repair or partial replacement	$1,200 - $3,500+	Larger damage or multiple sections
Residential roof replacement (2,000 sq ft)	$8,000 - $15,000	Asphalt shingle, most common
Metal roof replacement (commercial)	$8,000 - $25,000	Durable, long-term investment
Flat commercial roof repair (localized)	$800 - $2,500	Includes sealing & waterproofing

Costs are estimates; exact pricing depends on roof size, material, and scope of damage.

Tips to Save Money & Avoid Scams

Don't wait for a leak to get big. A $200 repair now can prevent a $5,000 replacement later.
Schedule bi-annual inspections, especially after winter storms.
Clean gutters and downspouts each spring and fall to prevent water backup.
Never waive your deductible - it's illegal and undermines your insurance.
Avoid “storm chasers” who show up after a hurricane with low-ball offers; verify their credentials first.

Local Contractor Spotlight: Mendoza Roofing LLC

Mendoza Roofing LLC has served Wilmington, Supply, and Brunswick County since 1974. We're a locally-owned, family-run company with a 5.0-star Google rating, full insurance, and certified GAF & Fortified roofing expertise. Our crew knows the coastal climate intimately and provides 24/7 emergency service. We offer a written estimate, a 5-year warranty, and a post-project walkthrough to ensure you're completely satisfied.

Call or request an estimate today:
📞 910-367-7628
📧 contact@roofingmendoza.com
📍 P.O. Box 952, Supply, NC 28462

FAQs - Roofing Contractor Questions Answered

Q: Is it better to hire a roofing contractor or a general contractor for my roof?
A: A specialized roofing contractor has deeper expertise in roof materials, flashings, and weather-specific repairs. General contractors may manage the whole home but often charge more for the same work.

Q: How long does a roof inspection take?
A: A thorough inspection usually takes 30-60 minutes, and we provide a written report with photos.

Q: Can I finance my roof project?
A: Many contractors offer flexible payment plans; Mendoza Roofing offers financing through trusted lenders.

Q: What if my roof is under 15 years old but has damage?
A: Even newer roofs can develop leaks from poor flashing or storm damage. A professional assessment will tell you whether a repair or a replacement is smarter.

Ready to Get the Right Roofing Contractor?

Choosing a roofing contractor involves asking the right questions, verifying credentials, and understanding local costs. For a stress-free experience in Wilmington, Supply, and Brunswick County, trust the team that knows the region's weather and material needs best.

Contact Mendoza Roofing LLC for a free, no-pressure estimate.