Even if you have a roof with a bad leak, you should take your time choosing a roofing contractor. Talk to at least two so you can not only compare estimates, but ask questions. Homestead Roofing recommends asking a roofer these questions.
First off, ask if they are insured, and if they can provide proof of insurance.
Getting insured not only protects you in case someone gets hurt during the roofing job, but it also shows that the roofer is committed to being in business for a long time.
Next, ask for their office address. The best roofers have a bricks and mortar place where you can go to in case there are problems in the future. Better roofers make enough money to have an office.
Another thing to ask is what their contractor license number is. Not all states require roofers to be licensed, but if you do live in a state that does, this license number will come in handy. You can double-check this number on the Internet.
Ask the roofer if money is required, and how much. Roofers should never ask you for more than 30%. In some states, there are laws about how much a deposit should be, so be sure to look them up.