How to Choose a Roofer in the North East

Published 1 April 2026 • By High and Dry Roofing

Hiring the wrong roofer can lead to poor workmanship, unexpected costs and a lot of stress. Unfortunately, the roofing industry has its share of unreliable traders, so it pays to do your homework before committing. Here is our advice on finding a reliable roofer in the North East.

Check They Are Properly Insured

Any reputable roofer should have public liability insurance as a minimum. This protects you if something goes wrong during the work, such as damage to your property or a neighbouring property. Ask to see a copy of their insurance certificate and check that it is current. If a roofer cannot or will not provide proof of insurance, walk away.

Get Written Quotes

Always get at least three written quotes before making a decision. A proper quote should be itemised, showing the cost of materials, labour, scaffolding and any other charges. Be wary of verbal estimates or vague figures. A written quote protects both you and the roofer by setting clear expectations about the work to be done and the price to be paid.

Look for Reviews and References

Check online reviews on Google, Facebook and trade-specific platforms. Look for consistent positive feedback rather than just one or two glowing reviews. A good roofer should also be happy to provide references from previous customers. If they are reluctant to do so, it may be a red flag.

Ask About Experience and Qualifications

Find out how long the roofer has been trading and what types of work they specialise in. Ask whether they hold any trade accreditations or memberships. While accreditations are not mandatory, they demonstrate a commitment to professional standards. Ask about guarantees on their work and whether they offer manufacturer-backed warranties on materials.

Avoid Door-Knockers

Be very cautious of anyone who knocks on your door unsolicited offering roofing work. This is one of the most common ways rogue traders find victims. They may claim to have spotted a problem with your roof from the street, but their real aim is to pressure you into paying for unnecessary or substandard work. A genuine roofer will rarely need to cold-call for business.

Get Everything in Writing

Before any work begins, make sure you have a written agreement covering the scope of the work, the total cost, payment terms, start date, estimated completion date and any guarantees. Never pay the full amount up front. A small deposit followed by staged payments linked to progress is standard practice. Be suspicious of anyone who demands a large cash payment before starting work.

Trust Your Instincts

A good roofer will be happy to answer your questions, explain what needs doing and give you time to make a decision. If someone is pressuring you to commit quickly or making you feel uncomfortable, it is best to look elsewhere. Good tradespeople earn work through reputation and recommendations, not high-pressure sales tactics.