The Importance of Choosing a Residential Roofing Contractor With Good Reviews
By Scott & Karen Dillman | July 1, 2025
Highlights:
- Online reviews are essential—84% of people trust them as much as personal recommendations when choosing a roofing contractor.
- Top-reviewed contractors often stand out for quality work, clear communication, and clean, respectful job sites.
- Reviews help you avoid scams by highlighting red flags like poor follow-through, hidden fees, or unreliable workmanship.
- Local reputation matters—roofers like Dillman Brothers, who are rooted in the community, offer personalized service and fast response times.
- Use reviews wisely—read full comments, compare patterns across platforms, and pair them with tips from Consumer Reports for a well-informed hiring decision.
When it comes to home improvement, few decisions carry more weight than hiring the right residential roofing contractor. Your roof protects your home from the elements, supports energy efficiency, and contributes to curb appeal. Yet, many homeowners overlook one simple but powerful way to find the right professional—reading and evaluating contractor reviews.
Online reviews offer insight into the experiences of other homeowners, giving you a clear picture of what you can expect in terms of quality, communication, reliability, and professionalism. While licenses and certifications matter, there’s no substitute for the real-world feedback of satisfied (or dissatisfied) customers.
Whether you're facing a sudden leak or planning a full roof replacement, choosing a contractor with great reviews can save you stress, money, and future headaches.
Why Reviews Matter More Than Ever
In today’s digital age, more than 90% of consumers read online reviews before making a hiring decision, and about 84% trust those reviews as much as a personal recommendation, according to BrightLocal. This shift in behavior shows that reviews are no longer optional—they’re an essential part of the decision-making process.
Positive reviews can be a sign of a roofing contractor who goes above and beyond for their clients—showing up on time, finishing the project as promised, and standing behind their work. On the other hand, poor reviews can reveal patterns of missed deadlines, subpar materials, or poor communication.
Even more importantly, reviews help set realistic expectations. They allow homeowners to compare services, customer experiences, and even pricing. That kind of transparency gives you confidence before signing a contract.
Did You Know…
The average asphalt shingle roof lasts about 20 years—but with proper maintenance and professional installation, it can stretch to 30 years or more. Choosing the right contractor now can save you from an early replacement down the road.
Key Qualities to Look for in Top-Rated Contractors
Great reviews usually point to great service—and they often hint at specific contractor traits that you should look for when making your decision.
1. Communication and Transparency: Customers consistently praise contractors who keep them informed throughout the project. Clear quotes, realistic timelines, and honest assessments go a long way.
2. Quality of Work: Top-reviewed roofing contractors are recognized for excellent craftsmanship. They don’t cut corners, and they stand by the durability and longevity of their work.
3. Clean-Up and Respect for Property: A high-quality roofer will leave your yard looking just as good as when they arrived—no nails, no scraps, and no damage.
4. Warranty and Follow-Up: Contractors with good reputations offer workmanship warranties and return to handle issues, even years down the road.
One way to make your search easier? Start with local businesses that are established in your area. For example, Dillman Brothers has built a reputation in the community as a reliable and customer-focused roofing contractor, with strong reviews from homeowners who appreciate their professionalism and results.
How many estimates should I get for a roofing project?
Most experts recommend getting at least three estimates to compare pricing, materials, and approaches.
Should I be concerned if a contractor doesn’t have many reviews?
Possibly. It could mean they’re new, or that previous clients weren’t satisfied enough to leave feedback. A pattern of detailed, positive reviews is a safer bet.
What’s a red flag to look for in reviews?
Watch out for recurring complaints about poor communication, delays, or shoddy workmanship.
Reviews Help Avoid Scams and Shady Contractors
Unfortunately, the roofing industry—like many others—has its share of scammers and unqualified contractors. Some may take your deposit and never return, while others might perform substandard work and disappear before problems arise.
According to the Business Chief, roofing contractors rank among the top 10 most complained-about industries each year. That’s why it’s essential to not just look at star ratings but also read the actual comments.
Look for:
- Contractors with verified reviews on multiple platforms (Google, Yelp, BBB).
- A consistent pattern of good experiences across different customers.
- Responses from the contractor to both positive and negative feedback, showing professionalism and accountability.
Review sites give you the power to do your homework before you hire—use them wisely, and you’ll protect yourself from costly mistakes.
Did You Know…
Roofs can account for up to 40% of your home’s exterior visual appeal. That means the right roofing contractor isn’t just improving protection—they’re enhancing your property value, too!
The Role of Professionalism and Local Reputation
It’s not just about what a contractor can do—it’s also about how they do it. Professionalism shows up in every detail of the customer experience, from the first phone call to the final walk-through. Highly rated contractors are often described as friendly, responsive, punctual, and respectful.
Choosing a local roofing company like Dillman Brothers comes with another major benefit: community accountability. Local contractors rely on positive word of mouth and repeat business, so they’re more motivated to ensure customer satisfaction.
Additionally, local roofers are familiar with building codes, climate-specific challenges, and permit requirements in your area. They know what types of materials hold up best in your weather conditions—something out-of-town companies often overlook. Our team at Dillman Brothers can attest that working with an experienced local roofer can mean faster response times, better service, and a stronger warranty system.
How to Use Reviews in Your Decision-Making Process
So, how do you actually use reviews to find the right contractor? Here’s a smart approach:
- Step 1: Use Google, Yelp, and the BBB to find a short list of roofing contractors with strong average ratings (4 stars and above).
- Step 2: Read several full reviews, not just the ratings. Look for specific experiences—good or bad—that apply to your situation.
- Step 3: Search for consistency. Are multiple customers praising the same things, like timeliness or cleanliness?
- Step 4: Eliminate companies with concerning trends, like ghosting clients, upcharges, or unsafe work practices.
- Step 5: Follow up with a call or consultation to see how the company communicates in real-time.
Remember, the best contractors often get booked quickly, so start your search early—especially if you're planning work before the rainy or snowy season. According to Consumer Reports, homeowners should check for local and state licenses, proof of bonding, and active references before hiring a roofing contractor. The right contractor isn't necessarily the cheapest, but the one who delivers long-term value, strong service, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Reviews Are Your Roadmap
When your home’s roof is on the line, don’t leave the decision to chance. Choosing a roofing contractor with excellent reviews is one of the smartest steps you can take to protect your investment.
Online reviews offer honest, unfiltered feedback that helps you avoid scams, vet professionals, and feel confident in your decision. Contractors like us, who consistently earn praise from happy homeowners, make it easy to choose with confidence.
Take the time to read reviews, ask questions, and trust your instincts. After all, your home deserves the best—and so do you. Give us a call at Dillman Brothers today to get started.
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