Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Company in Ashford

Author : Harry Brown | Published On : 06 Oct 2026

Your roof is the part of your home that takes the most punishment. In Ashford, that means wind, driving rain, frost and the heavy downpours Kent sees every autumn and winter. A poorly fitted roof can leak within a year. A well-fitted one can protect your home for decades.

The difference usually comes down to who you hire. Before you agree to any work, put these questions to every roofing company in Ashford on your shortlist. Their answers, and how willingly they give them, will tell you most of what you need to know.

In short: A trustworthy roofer in Ashford should be able to show you proof of insurance, a detailed written quote, relevant accreditations, local references, and a clear guarantee. If any of these is missing or vague, keep looking.

1. Are You Fully Insured?

This is the first question to ask. Reputable roofing contractors in Ashford should carry public liability insurance, which covers damage to your property or neighbouring properties while work is under way. Roofing is high-risk work, and an uninsured contractor leaves you exposed if something goes wrong.

Ask to see the certificate, check the policy dates, and confirm that roofing work is covered. A professional will hand it over without hesitation.

2. How Long Have You Been Trading, and Where Are You Based?

Experience matters, but local experience matters more. A roofer in Ashford, Kent who works across the borough understands the local housing stock, from Victorian terraces and period properties in the town centre to newer estates and rural homes around Tenterden, Charing and Wye. They also know the local weather and how it affects different roofing materials.

Ask for a verifiable business address, a landline or company number, and a website. Be cautious of anyone who knocks on your door claiming they "noticed a problem" with your roof.

3. Which Trade Bodies and Accreditations Do You Hold?

Membership of a recognised trade body shows a contractor is held to professional standards. In the UK, look for associations such as:

• National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC)

• TrustMark

• Federation of Master Builders (FMB)

• Competent Roofer scheme

Do not rely on a logo on a website. Check the membership with the relevant body directly. Accreditations can also support an insurance-backed guarantee, which protects you if the contractor stops trading.

4. Can I See Examples of Your Previous Work and References?

An established roofing company in Ashford should be able to show completed projects similar to yours, whether that is a flat roof repair, a full roof replacement, or work on chimneys, fascias and guttering.

Ask for:

• Photographs of recent jobs, ideally before and after

• Contact details for two or three recent customers in Kent

• Links to genuine online reviews, such as Google Business Profile

A contractor with nothing to show after years in business is a warning sign.

5. Will You Provide a Detailed Written Quote?

A verbal estimate is not enough. A proper roofing quote should set out:

• The exact scope of work

• Materials, including brand and specification

• Labour costs

• Scaffolding and waste removal

• Start date and expected duration

• Payment terms

• VAT, where applicable

Detailed quotes let you compare like with like. Be wary of anyone who gives a single figure with no breakdown, or who pressures you to accept "today only" prices.

6. What Materials Will You Use, and Why?

The right material depends on your roof type, budget and how long you want it to last. A good roofer will explain the options rather than push one.

For flat roofing in Ashford, common options include EPDM rubber, GRP (fibreglass), and traditional or modern felt systems. For pitched roofs, the choice usually involves clay or concrete tiles, natural slate, or composite alternatives.

Ask about expected lifespan, maintenance needs, and whether the materials come with a manufacturer's warranty.

7. Do You Offer a Guarantee or Warranty?

A guarantee shows a contractor stands behind their work. Ask:

• How long does the workmanship guarantee last?

• Is there a separate manufacturer's warranty on the materials?

• Is the guarantee insurance-backed?

• Is it provided in writing?

Keep all paperwork. If a problem appears later, a written guarantee makes the claim straightforward.

8. Will You Handle Permissions and Building Regulations?

Most routine roof repairs do not need planning permission, but some projects do. These include changes to the roof's shape, loft conversions, and work on listed buildings or homes in a conservation area. Ashford has several of these, so it is worth checking with Ashford Borough Council before work begins.

Replacing a roof covering can also fall under Building Regulations, particularly around insulation and ventilation. Ask whether the contractor will advise on this and arrange any necessary sign-off. A knowledgeable roofer will raise these points before you do.

9. How Will You Protect My Property During the Work?

Roofing is noisy and messy, so it helps to know the plan in advance. Ask about:

• Scaffolding: who erects it, and is it properly inspected?

• Protection for gardens, driveways and windows

• Weather contingency: what happens if rain stops work mid-job?

• Waste removal: is skip hire included in the quote?

• Site cleanliness at the end of each day

Mid-job weather is a real concern in Kent. A good contractor will have a plan for covering an exposed roof overnight.

10. Who Will Be Doing the Work?

Some companies sub-contract jobs without telling the customer. Ask whether the company's own employees or subcontractors will do the work, and who will supervise on site.

Knowing who is on your roof matters for quality and accountability. It also makes it clear who to call if you have concerns.

11. What Are the Payment Terms?

Payment practices tell you a lot about a contractor. Reasonable terms usually include a small deposit or staged payments linked to progress, with the balance due on completion and your satisfaction.

Treat these as red flags:

• Large upfront payments or cash-only demands

• Requests to pay in full before work starts

• No written invoice or receipt

Pay by bank transfer or card where possible, as this gives a clearer paper trail than cash.

12. What Happens If Something Goes Wrong or Hidden Problems Appear?

Once old tiles or felt are lifted, hidden issues such as rotten timbers or damaged battens can come to light. Ask how the company deals with this. A reliable contractor will stop, show you the problem, explain the options, and agree any extra cost in writing before continuing.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if a roofer:

• Turns up unannounced and says your roof is in urgent need of repair

• Refuses to give a written quote or proof of insurance

• Has no local address or only a mobile number

• Pushes you to decide on the spot

• Demands full payment upfront

• Has no traceable reviews or previous customers

Quick Comparison Checklist

Final Thoughts

Choosing a roofing company in Ashford is a big decision, but a clear set of questions makes it much easier. Check insurance, accreditations, written quotes, guarantees and local references, and trust your instincts if something feels off.

If you are looking for dependable roofing contractors in Ashford with local knowledge and a clear, honest approach, contact Hibbs Roofing and Building Ltd for a free, no-obligation quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many quotes should I get for roof work in Ashford?
Aim for at least three. Comparing quotes helps you spot unusually high or suspiciously low prices and lets you judge each contractor's professionalism.

What is the best time of year to repair a roof in Ashford?
Spring and summer offer the most reliable weather, but urgent repairs should never wait. If you leak, get it assessed straight away, whatever the season.

How do I check a roofer's accreditation?
Contact the trade body directly, such as NFRC or TrustMark, and confirm the company's membership using the name and address on their quote