Hornsby Roofing: What to Know Before You Hire

Who Hornsby Roofing is and what they do

Hornsby Roofing is a South Carolina-based roofing contractor that handles residential and commercial roof repair, replacement, and maintenance. The company operates across the state and works with homeowners and business owners who need anything from storm damage assessment to full roof installation. They work with standard roofing materials common to South Carolina's climate—asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and flat roof systems.

Like any roofing contractor, Hornsby Roofing's reputation depends on the quality of their work, how they handle insurance claims, and whether they show up when they say they will. Before hiring any roofer, you should understand what questions to ask, what to expect during the process, and how to protect yourself if something goes wrong.

Key Takeaways

• Hornsby Roofing is a South Carolina contractor offering roof repair, replacement, and maintenance for residential and commercial properties.
• You should always get written estimates from multiple roofers before deciding, and compare what materials and labor each one includes.
• If you are filing an insurance claim for storm damage, confirm the roofer's experience with insurance documentation and whether they will work directly with your adjuster.
• Check references from recent jobs in your area and verify the contractor is licensed and insured before signing any contract.
• A detailed written contract should specify the scope of work, timeline, materials, total cost, and what happens if the job takes longer than planned.

Getting an estimate and comparing costs

Contact Hornsby Roofing directly for an estimate. Most roofing contractors offer free inspections and written quotes. When you call, describe the work you need—whether it is repair, replacement, or maintenance—and ask whether they charge for the estimate. Some contractors include the estimate cost in the final bill if you hire them; others do not.

Do not accept a verbal quote. A written estimate should list the materials being used (brand and type of shingle or metal, for example), the square footage of roof being worked on, labor costs, and the total price. It should also state how long the work will take and whether that timeline changes if weather delays the job. Get estimates from at least two other roofers so you can compare what each one is offering and at what price.

Ask each contractor whether they handle insurance claims. If you are filing a claim with your homeowner's or commercial insurance, some roofers will work with your insurance adjuster and submit documentation directly. Others expect you to handle the insurance side yourself. Knowing this upfront saves confusion later.

Verifying licensing, insurance, and references

Before you hire Hornsby Roofing or any contractor, confirm they are licensed to work in South Carolina. The South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCDHEC) maintains a list of licensed contractors. You can search by company name to verify their license is current and in good standing. A licensed contractor has met training and testing requirements and is subject to state oversight.

Ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. Liability insurance protects you if someone is injured on your property or if the roofer damages your home during the job. Workers' compensation covers the roofer's employees if they are hurt. If the roofer does not carry these, you could be liable for injuries or damage.

Request references from jobs completed in the last year, ideally in your neighborhood or town. Call at least two references and ask whether the work was completed on time, whether the roofer cleaned up afterward, and whether they would hire the same contractor again. Ask the references what they would do differently if they could start over—this often reveals real problems that a contractor's sales pitch will not.

Understanding the contract and scope of work

A roofing contract is your protection if something goes wrong. Before you sign, read it carefully and make sure it includes every detail you discussed. The contract should state exactly what work is being done, which materials are being used, the total cost, when the work starts and when it should be finished, and what happens if the job takes longer.

The contract should also specify who is responsible for cleanup, whether the old roofing material will be hauled away or left for you to dispose of, and what warranty comes with the work. Many roofers offer a labor warranty (usually one to ten years) separate from the manufacturer's warranty on the shingles or metal itself. Understand which parts of the roof are covered under which warranty and for how long.

Do not sign a contract that leaves blanks or uses vague language like "roof repair as needed." If the roofer wants to change the scope of work once they start, ask for a written change order that lists what is being added, how much it costs, and how it affects the timeline. Never pay the full amount upfront; most reputable roofers ask for a deposit (often 25 to 50 percent) and the balance when the work is complete.

What to expect during and after the job

On the day work begins, the roofer should protect your property—laying tarps to catch debris, securing ladders safely, and keeping the work area organized. If you have questions about what they are doing or why, ask. A professional roofer will explain their process and answer your concerns.

Once the roof is finished, walk it with the roofer or a representative before you pay the final bill. Check that all shingles or metal panels are properly secured, that flashing around vents and chimneys is sealed, and that gutters are clear. If you spot problems, point them out and ask when they will be fixed. Get any promises in writing.

Keep all paperwork—the contract, estimates, invoices, warranty documents, and photos of the finished work. If you filed an insurance claim, keep copies of the adjuster's report and any correspondence with your insurance company. This documentation protects you if a problem arises later and you need to file a complaint or pursue a warranty claim.

What to do if there is a problem

If the roofer does not complete the work as promised, does not show up, or leaves the job unfinished, contact them in writing (email or certified mail) and describe the problem. Give them a reasonable deadline to fix it—usually 10 to 14 days. Keep a copy of your letter.

If the roofer does not respond or refuses to fix the problem, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. You can also contact the Better Business Bureau or your local consumer protection office. If the amount in dispute is small enough, small claims court may be an option.

If the problem is a defect in the roofing material itself (not the installation), contact the manufacturer directly. Most shingle and metal manufacturers offer warranties that cover defects, and they will work with you to replace faulty material.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a roof repair or a full replacement?

A roofer can tell you during an inspection. Generally, if damage is limited to one area, a few missing shingles, or a small leak, repair is often enough. If the roof is more than 15 to 20 years old, has widespread damage, or leaks in multiple places, replacement is usually more cost-effective in the long run. Ask the roofer to explain why they recommend repair or replacement, not just which one they prefer.

What should I do if a storm damages my roof?

Document the damage with photos and contact your insurance company right away. They will send an adjuster to inspect the roof and determine what is covered. Once you have the adjuster's report, you can get estimates from roofers like Hornsby Roofing. Some roofers will meet with your adjuster and help you understand the claim process; ask about this when you call for an estimate.

How long does a roof typically last in South Carolina?

Asphalt shingle roofs usually last 15 to 20 years in South Carolina's climate. Metal roofs last longer—often 30 to 50 years. The lifespan depends on the quality of the material, how well the roof was installed, and how much sun and weather exposure it gets. Your roofer can assess the condition of your current roof and tell you how much life is left.

Can I do roof repairs myself?

Small repairs like replacing a few missing shingles are possible for someone comfortable on a ladder, but most roof work is best left to professionals. Roofing is dangerous—falls are a serious risk—and improper installation can lead to leaks and water damage that cost far more to fix later. If you are not experienced, hiring a professional is safer and usually more economical.

What is the difference between a roofer and a general contractor?

A roofer specializes in roof work and typically has specific training and licensing for roofing. A general contractor may handle many types of construction and may subcontract roofing to a specialist. For roof work, hire a licensed roofing contractor rather than a general contractor, because they have the expertise and accountability you need.