Hernandez Roofing: What to Know Before You Hire

Who Hernandez Roofing is and what they do

Hernandez Roofing is a roofing contractor operating in South Carolina that handles roof repair, replacement, and installation work for residential and commercial properties. Like any roofing company you might contact, they're one option among many in the state, and the decision to hire them depends on your specific project, budget, and what matters most to you in a contractor.

Before you call any roofing company—including Hernandez—you should know what questions to ask, what to look for in a contract, and how to protect yourself during the work. This guide walks you through those steps so you can make an informed choice about any contractor you're considering.

Key Takeaways

• Get written estimates from multiple roofing contractors before deciding, so you can compare price, materials, timeline, and warranty terms side by side.
• Verify that any contractor you hire holds a current South Carolina roofing license and carries liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.
• A roofing contract should specify the materials to be used, the total cost, the start and end dates, and what happens if weather delays the work.
• Ask whether the contractor offers a warranty on labor and materials, and get the warranty terms in writing before work begins.
• Check references from past customers and ask specifically about how the contractor handled problems or unexpected costs during the job.

How to evaluate any roofing contractor

When you're deciding between contractors, start by getting at least three written estimates. Each estimate should list the materials (shingles, underlayment, flashing, etc.), the labor cost, the total price, and the timeline. Estimates that are significantly lower than others may indicate the contractor is cutting corners on materials or planning to rush the job—ask why the price differs.

Check the contractor's license status through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCDHEC). A current license means the contractor has met state training and insurance requirements. Also ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. If someone is injured on your roof, you want to know the contractor's insurance will cover it, not your homeowner's policy.

Call at least two references from jobs completed in the past year. Ask not just whether the customer was satisfied, but whether the contractor showed up on time, cleaned up debris, handled unexpected problems professionally, and stood behind the work if issues appeared later. A contractor who communicates well during the job usually handles problems better too.

What to require in a written contract

Never hire a roofing contractor based on a verbal agreement or a handshake. A written contract protects both you and the contractor by making expectations clear. Your contract should include the contractor's name, license number, and contact information; a detailed description of the work (roof type, materials, square footage, any repairs included); the total cost and payment schedule; the start date and expected completion date; and what happens if weather delays the work.

The contract should also specify the warranty. Some contractors warranty their labor for one year; others offer longer terms. Material warranties often come from the manufacturer, not the contractor. Ask whether the contractor will handle warranty claims if a problem appears, or whether you'll deal with the manufacturer directly. Get all warranty terms in writing and keep them with your contract.

Include a clause about what happens if the contractor discovers additional damage once work begins—for example, rotted decking under the shingles. You want to know in advance that the contractor will notify you and get your approval before charging extra, rather than discovering a surprise bill at the end.

Payment and timeline expectations

Most roofing contractors ask for a deposit before starting work—typically 25 to 50 percent of the total cost. The remainder is usually due upon completion. Never pay the full amount upfront; this leaves you with no leverage if the work isn't finished or doesn't meet the contract terms. If a contractor demands full payment before starting, that's a red flag.

Roofing work is weather-dependent. Rain, high winds, or extreme heat can delay the job. Your contract should say what happens if weather stops work—for example, whether the timeline extends automatically or whether you and the contractor agree on new dates. A realistic timeline for a standard residential roof replacement is three to seven days, depending on the size and complexity.

Questions to ask before you hire

Ask the contractor how long they've been in business and whether they're bonded. A bond is a form of insurance that protects you if the contractor fails to complete the work or violates the contract. Ask whether they handle their own work or subcontract it out; if they subcontract, ask for the subcontractor's license and insurance information.

Find out what happens to debris and old roofing materials. Most contractors include removal and disposal in their estimate, but some charge extra. Clarify this before signing. Also ask whether they'll protect your landscaping, gutters, and siding during the work, and what they'll do if something is damaged.

Ask about their process for inspecting the roof before giving an estimate. A thorough contractor will climb on the roof and look for structural damage, not just quote a price over the phone. If they won't inspect, consider that a sign they may not catch problems that could affect the cost or safety of the job.

Red flags and how to avoid problems

Be cautious of contractors who show up at your door after a storm offering to file insurance claims for you or who pressure you to decide immediately. Legitimate contractors let you take time to compare options. Avoid anyone who asks you to sign a blank contract or who won't provide a license number when asked.

If a contractor offers to bill your insurance company directly and tells you there's no cost to you, understand that you're still responsible for your deductible and for any work the insurance doesn't cover. Get a written estimate before any insurance claim is filed, so you know what the actual cost is.

After the work is done, do a final walkthrough with the contractor before paying the balance. Check that all materials match what was in the contract, that the roof looks even and secure, and that cleanup is complete. Take photos of the finished work. If you notice problems later, you'll have documentation of what was completed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my roof needs repair or replacement?

A contractor should inspect your roof to determine this. Signs of damage include missing or curling shingles, leaks in the attic, sagging areas, or shingles that are more than 15 to 20 years old. If damage is localized to one area, repair may be enough. If damage is widespread or the roof is near the end of its lifespan, replacement is usually more cost-effective long-term.

What's the difference between a contractor's warranty and a manufacturer's warranty?

A contractor's warranty covers the quality of their labor—for example, that shingles are installed correctly and won't leak due to poor workmanship. A manufacturer's warranty covers the shingles themselves if they fail due to a defect in the material. Both matter. Ask which warranty applies to different parts of the job and get the terms in writing.

Can I get a roof replaced if I'm on a tight budget?

You have options. Some contractors offer payment plans or financing. You can also prioritize repairs to the most damaged areas first and plan a full replacement later. Get multiple estimates to understand the full cost, then decide what you can do now and what can wait. Delaying a needed roof replacement can lead to water damage that costs more to fix later.

What should I do if the contractor damages something during the work?

Document the damage with photos and get it in writing from the contractor—what was damaged and how they plan to fix or pay for it. If the contractor's insurance should cover it, ask the contractor to file a claim. If you disagree about responsibility, contact your local Better Business Bureau or the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation for guidance.

How long does a new roof last?

Most asphalt shingle roofs last 15 to 20 years. Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years. The lifespan depends on the material, the quality of installation, your climate, and how well the roof is maintained. Ask the contractor what lifespan to expect for the materials they're recommending for your home.