Hiring someone to work on your roof isn’t just another home improvement task—it’s one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your home’s longevity. Your roof protects your family, your belongings, and your peace of mind. So when it comes to choosing a roofing contractor, the stakes are high—and the decision matters.
Here at Brewster Roofing, we’ve been on rooftops since 1964. We’ve seen what happens when corners are cut and when homeowners put their trust in the wrong hands. We’ve also seen the relief (and long-term savings) that come from hiring the right team from the start.
If you’re wondering what separates a solid roofing company from a risky one—or you’re staring down an estimate and unsure what questions to ask—this roofing company checklist is for you.
Let’s walk through six non-negotiable traits to look for in a licensed roofer, whether you’re in Lees Summit or anywhere else smart homeowners live.
1. Proper Licensing, Insurance, and Credentials
Why Licensing and Insurance Aren’t Just Bureaucratic Boxes to Check
A legitimate, trustworthy roofing contractor should be fully licensed to operate in your state or locality. More importantly, they should carry both liability insurance and workers’ compensation.
Why does this matter?
If a roofer gets injured on your property or causes damage to your home and they aren’t properly insured, you could be held financially responsible. That’s not a risk worth taking.
Look for:
- State-required roofing licenses
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
- Manufacturer certifications (like TAMKO Master Pro, GAF Certified, etc.)
At Brewster Roofing, we don’t just meet minimum requirements—we exceed them. As a GAF-certified contractor, we meet some of the industry’s highest standards for roofing excellence. We’re also fully insured in both Missouri and Kansas, so that’s one less thing you have to worry about.
2. Local Experience and Reputation
Roofing Is Local—Your Contractor Should Be Too
You want a roofing contractor who understands local codes, weather patterns, and the specific needs of homes in your region. A traveling crew may offer a tempting deal after a storm—but will they be around in six months if something goes wrong?
Tip: Ask these when hiring a roofer:
- How long have they been serving your area?
- Do they have a physical location nearby?
- Can they provide references from local customers?
With more than 15,000 roofs replaced and over 60 years in business, we’ve earned the trust of homeowners across the region—including here in Lees Summit. Our clients aren’t just numbers—they’re neighbors.
3. Detailed, Transparent Estimates
Good Roofers Explain the What, Why, and How Much
One of the biggest red flags when choosing roofing contractor candidates? Vague or too-good-to-be-true estimates. If a quote comes back dramatically lower than others, there’s a reason—and it often ends in surprise charges, rushed labor, or subpar materials.
The best roofer qualities include transparency from the very beginning. A professional contractor will walk you through:
- The materials being used
- The scope of work (including prep and clean-up)
- The estimated timeline
- Any potential additional costs
At Brewster Roofing, we don’t just hand you a number—we explain it. We’ll tell you what we’re using, why we’re using it, and what your home will look like when we’re done.
4. Warranty Coverage That Actually Protects You
Know the Difference Between a Product Warranty and Workmanship Warranty
A roof is only as good as its installation—and a warranty is only as good as the company backing it.
Most shingle manufacturers offer warranties that cover defects in their materials (sometimes up to 50 years). But those don’t help much if the installer cut corners. That’s where a workmanship warranty comes in.
Here’s what to look for:
- Manufacturer-backed warranties on materials
- A minimum 5-year workmanship warranty (many offer less)
- Clear terms on what’s covered—and what’s not
We offer a 5-year workmanship warranty on every project, and we’re proud to be a TAMKO Master Pro Dealer with access to the TAMKO MasterShield 30-year non-prorated warranty. That’s real peace of mind.
5. Proven Project Management and Communication
A Good Roofer Doesn’t Just Build Roofs—They Build Trust
Roofing projects can feel chaotic. There are crews, equipment, timelines, and maybe even weather delays. The difference between a stressful experience and a smooth one? Communication.
The best roofer qualities include:
- A clear project manager or point of contact
- Updates on scheduling, materials, and timelines
- Responsiveness to questions or concerns
We’ve worked on jobs ranging from suburban homes to multi-family apartments requiring over 150 windows and hundreds of squares of siding. We keep timelines tight, crews efficient, and homeowners in the loop from start to finish.
6. A Roofing Company That Does More Than Roofs
Bonus Points: Full Exterior Expertise
Sometimes your roof isn’t the only thing that needs attention. Maybe you need new gutters, siding, or windows to complete the picture. Hiring a full-service contractor saves time and ensures every part of your exterior works together.
Here’s what to consider:
- Can they handle related work like gutters, siding, insulation, or windows?
- Do they coordinate everything under one contract and team?
- Are their crews experienced across multiple trades?
At Brewster Roofing, we handle the full spectrum of exterior remodeling—from roofing services and seamless gutters to Hardie Board siding and premium windows. That means you get one partner, one plan, and a better end result.
Don’t Settle for Less Than the Best
We get it—choosing roofing contractor professionals can feel overwhelming. You’re sorting through sales pitches, comparing quotes, and trying to avoid a costly mistake. But when you focus on the right traits—the ones that really matter—you’ll find the decision gets a whole lot easier.
As you build your own roofing company checklist, remember:
- Look for licensed roofer traits and insurance
- Choose local experience over out-of-town promises
- Prioritize transparency and communication
- Expect strong warranties on both labor and materials
- Seek out a contractor with comprehensive home exterior services
If you’re in Lees Summit or nearby and want a contractor who checks all the boxes (and then some), reach out to Brewster Roofing. Our team is here to help you make a confident, informed decision—no pressure, no sales games.
Call us at (816) 779-7200 in Missouri or (913) 915-5234 in Kansas. You can also email us at Customer@BrewsterGC.com to schedule a free consultation.
Because when it comes to your roof, good enough isn’t good enough.
