Roberts Roofing in South Carolina: What to Know Before You Call

Roberts Roofing is a regional contractor serving South Carolina residential and commercial properties

Roberts Roofing operates as a roofing contractor in South Carolina, handling roof installation, repair, and replacement work for homeowners and businesses. Like any roofing company you're considering, the decision to hire them depends on understanding what they do, how they price work, and what happens if something goes wrong after the job is finished.

This guide walks you through what to research before calling any roofing contractor, using Roberts Roofing as a reference point. The goal is to help you ask the right questions and understand what a roofing contract should include.

Key Takeaways

• Before hiring any roofing contractor, verify their licensing status through South Carolina's Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
• A written contract should specify the roofing material, labor cost, timeline, and warranty terms before work begins.
• South Carolina law requires roofing contractors to be licensed; confirm this status and check for complaints with the state.
• Get at least three written estimates from different contractors so you can compare pricing and scope of work side by side.
• Ask about the warranty on materials and workmanship, and request it in writing as part of your contract.

How to verify a roofing contractor's license and standing

South Carolina requires roofing contractors to hold a license issued by the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR). You can search the DLLR's online license verification system to confirm that any contractor, including Roberts Roofing, holds an active license and to check the license type and expiration date.

The same database shows complaint history. If a contractor has had complaints filed against them, the record will appear here along with how those complaints were resolved. This is public information and takes five minutes to check. If a contractor cannot provide a license number or their number does not appear in the system, do not hire them.

Ask for proof of current liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. A contractor should provide these documents without hesitation. Liability insurance protects you if the contractor damages your property; workers' compensation protects you from being sued if a worker is injured on your roof.

What a roofing contract must include

A written contract is not optional—it is your only protection if the work is incomplete, damaged, or not what you agreed to. Before you sign, the contract should clearly state the roofing material (shingles, metal, tile, or other), the exact cost broken into labor and materials, the start date and expected completion date, and what happens if the contractor cannot finish on time.

The contract must also specify the warranty. Most roofing materials come with a manufacturer's warranty covering defects in the shingles or panels themselves; this typically lasts 20 to 50 years depending on the material. The contractor should also offer a workmanship warranty, which covers installation errors. Workmanship warranties usually run 5 to 10 years. Both should be written into your contract, not just promised verbally.

Include a clause about cleanup and debris removal. Ask whether the contractor will haul away old roofing material or if that is your responsibility. Clarify who pays for any permits required by your city or county—most contractors include this in their bid, but confirm it in writing.

Getting multiple estimates and comparing pricing

Roofing prices vary based on the size of your roof, the material you choose, the complexity of the job, and local labor costs. A steep roof costs more to work on than a flat one. A roof with multiple angles, skylights, or chimneys costs more than a simple rectangle. Getting three written estimates lets you see how different contractors approach the same job.

When you request estimates, provide the same information to each contractor: your roof's square footage (or let them measure it), the material you want, and any specific concerns like leaks or damaged sections. This way, the estimates are comparable. If one estimate is significantly lower than the others, ask why—it may mean lower-quality materials, less experienced labor, or a contractor cutting corners to win the bid.

Do not choose based on price alone. A contractor who is licensed, insured, and offers a solid warranty is worth paying more than one who is not. A cheap roof that fails in five years costs far more than a properly installed roof that lasts 20.

Understanding roofing materials and their lifespans

Asphalt shingles are the most common choice in South Carolina. They typically last 15 to 25 years, cost less upfront than other materials, and are easy to repair. They perform well in South Carolina's humid climate but can be damaged by high winds or hail.

Metal roofing lasts 40 to 70 years, reflects heat (lowering cooling costs), and handles wind and hail better than shingles. It costs more initially but requires less maintenance. Metal is increasingly popular in South Carolina for both residential and commercial buildings.

Tile roofing is durable and common in coastal areas. It lasts 50 years or longer but is heavy and requires a reinforced structure. It is expensive and less common in inland South Carolina.

Your choice depends on your budget, your roof's age, and what your home's structure can support. A contractor should explain which materials work best for your specific situation and climate zone.

What to expect during and after the roofing job

A typical roof replacement takes one to three days depending on the size and complexity. The contractor should protect your landscaping and property before starting, remove the old roofing, inspect the underlying structure for damage, and install new material. They should clean up debris daily and haul away old roofing material as specified in your contract.

After the job is complete, walk the roof with the contractor (or ask them to photograph it) to confirm the work matches what you agreed to. Check that flashing around chimneys and vents is sealed, that gutters are clear, and that no shingles are missing or misaligned. Do not make final payment until you are satisfied with the work.

Keep your contract and warranty documents in a safe place. If you sell your home, the new owner may be able to transfer the workmanship warranty, which adds value to the property. If problems appear later, you will need these documents to file a claim.

Red flags when hiring a roofing contractor

Avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront before starting work. Standard practice is a deposit (usually 25 to 50 percent) when you sign the contract, a second payment when the work is halfway done, and final payment upon completion. If a contractor insists on all the money at the start, that is a warning sign.

Be cautious of contractors who show up at your door after a storm offering to file insurance claims for you or claiming they can get your roof replaced "for free" through insurance. While insurance may cover storm damage, the contractor should not pressure you into hiring them or promise outcomes they cannot may provide. Insurance claims are between you and your insurance company.

Do not hire a contractor who cannot provide a license number, proof of insurance, or references. Do not sign a contract that is blank or incomplete. Do not pay cash without a receipt. These practices protect both you and the contractor.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A contractor should inspect your roof and explain what they find. Generally, if your roof is leaking in one or two spots and is less than 15 years old, repair may be enough. If it is older, has widespread damage, or is leaking in multiple places, replacement is usually more cost-effective. Ask the contractor for their recommendation in writing.

Does homeowners insurance cover roof replacement?

Insurance may cover damage from storms, hail, or falling trees, but not wear and tear from age. Your policy and your specific situation determine what is covered. Contact your insurance company directly before hiring a contractor; they can tell you what they will and will not pay for.

Can I install a new roof over my old one?

Some contractors offer this as a lower-cost option, but it is not always wise. Building codes in South Carolina limit how many layers of roofing you can have, and layering can hide problems underneath. Most contractors recommend removing the old roof first so they can inspect the structure. Ask your contractor which approach they recommend for your situation.

What should I do if I find a problem after the contractor finishes?

Contact the contractor immediately and describe the problem in writing (email works). If the problem is covered under the workmanship warranty, they should fix it at no cost. If you cannot reach them or they refuse, contact the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation to file a complaint. Keep all documentation of the problem and your attempts to contact the contractor.

How often should I have my roof inspected?

Most experts recommend a professional inspection every three to five years, or after a major storm. You can also do a visual check from the ground twice a year—look for missing shingles, sagging areas, or debris buildup in gutters. Early detection of problems can save money on repairs.