How to Choose a Trusted Roofer in Sydney (7 Checks)
A bad roof job can cost thousands to fix, void your home insurance, and leave you chasing a company that's vanished. Before you sign anything, run these seven checks on any Sydney roofer.
1. Confirm the licence
In NSW, roofers doing work over $5,000 must hold a building or roof-plumbing licence. Ask for the licence number and verify it on the Service NSW public register. A legitimate roofer will happily share it — hesitation is a red flag.
2. Verify the ABN
Look the company up on the Australian Business Register (ABR). A registered, GST-active business that's been operating for several years is far easier to hold accountable than a brand-new entity that can disappear.
3. Check insurance
Ask for a certificate of currency for public liability insurance and, if they employ staff, workers' compensation. Never skip this — if someone is injured on your property and the roofer is uninsured, you can be held liable.
4. Read genuine reviews
Google reviews are the most reliable indicator of quality. Look for a solid rating and a meaningful number of reviews — a 5.0 from 11 reviews is far less proven than a 4.8 from 200. Our directory shows ratings and review counts for every listing.
5. Get multiple written quotes
Always get at least three. A detailed written quote should itemise materials, scope of work, warranty and a timeframe. Be wary of quotes that are suspiciously cheap — they usually cut corners on materials or preparation.
6. Ask about the warranty
Reputable roofers offer written workmanship warranties — typically 5–10 years — on top of the manufacturer's material warranty. Always get it in writing, not just verbally.
7. Avoid door-knockers and storm-chasers
After big storms, unlicensed operators appear offering "cheap" repairs and demanding cash deposits. Stick to established, local companies with a verifiable history and a physical presence.
Red flags to watch for
- No licence number or refusal to share it
- Pressure to sign today with a "special price"
- Large cash deposits before any work begins
- Quotes that are dramatically cheaper than the others
Questions to ask before you hire
- Are you licensed, and can I see the licence number?
- Do you have public liability insurance? Can I see the certificate?
- How long have you been trading, and do you have local references?
- What exactly is included in the quote — and what's extra?
- How long is your workmanship warranty, and is it in writing?
- Who will be on site, and how will you protect my property?
A professional roofer answers these without hesitation. Vague or evasive answers are a sign to keep looking.
The final checklist
Before you sign, make sure you have: a verified licence number, a current insurance certificate, a written quote that itemises the work, and a written warranty. If all four are in place and the reviews back up the company, you can proceed with confidence.
Request quotes from ABN-verified roofers in your suburb — every listing in our directory has been checked against the ABR, so you're starting from a trusted shortlist.