Hiring a Roofer in NJ: What to Look For in a Reputable Contractor
August 4, 2025
•
Written By
Golden Master Roofing

Hiring a roofing contractor in New Jersey shouldn’t feel like rolling the dice. But every thunderstorm brings a wave of out-of-state storm‑chasers and fly-by-nights out to exploit homeowners. With so much at stake—your home’s safety, your money, your peace of mind—it’s critical to separate the pros from the pretenders.
Golden Master Roofing has been doing business in New Jersey for over 15 years. We’ve seen it all: half-installed roofs, expired licenses, insurers backing out, surprise price hikes. That’s why this guide cuts the fluff and delivers exactly what you need to know before hiring a roofer.
1. Licensing & Insurance — The Nonnegotiables
- NJ Home Improvement Contractor License (HIC)
If a roofer can’t show it, you don’t hire them. No exceptions. - General Liability Insurance
Covers damage to your home caused during the job. - Workers’ Compensation
Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property.
Verify licenses at the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.
Golden Master Roofing provides proof without being asked—and explains what every policy means for your protection.
2. Manufacturer Credentials That Matter
Vague claims of “20 years’ experience” don’t impress manufacturers. What matters are certifications from roofing brands:
- GAF Master Elite® Contractor — the top tier, less than 2% of roofers qualify
- Owens Corning Preferred Installer — rigorous training and performance standards
- CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster — trusted status requiring audits
These certifications unlock better materials, premium warranties, and installation standards manufacturers enforce.
Golden Master Roofing is GAF Master Elite®, able to offer the Golden Pledge® Warranty—something no uncertified roofer can.
3. Local Reputation & Verifiable References
Ask two questions:
- Are they rated on Google, Yelp, Angi?
- Can they show you real New Jersey references?
National franchises or storm-chaser teams typically lack local reviews or accountability. They’re often gone by the time defects show up.
Golden Master Roofing has:
- Hundreds of 5-star reviews across NJ
- A-list BBB rating (not just “accredited”)
- Signed homeowner references from recent local jobs
WP check? Search “Golden Master Roofing NJ reviews”—our track record is public and consistent.
4. Hard-Written Warranties
A contract without a workmanship warranty is worthless.
- Workmanship: Golden Master Roofing offers a lifetime guarantee on labor—if anything goes wrong, we fix it.
- Materials: Installing a complete GAF system gives you access to 25–50 year material warranties backed by both GAF and us.
Any roofer who only says “we stand behind our work” but doesn’t provide paperwork? Walk away.
Red Flags to Avoid
Beware these warning signs:
Golden Master Roofing never resorts to these. We give written bids, require 10–20% deposits, and never pressure you to decide on the spot.
5. Transparent Proposals & Communication
A solid estimate includes:
- Line-by-line breakdown: materials, labor, tear-off, cleanup
- Project duration and timeline
- Permitting and code compliance
- Sales tax, disposal fees, hidden fees
- Financing options if needed
Golden Master Roofing lays everything out—even scheduling elements like roofers following them up with local building officials for signoffs.
6. Emergency Response & Future Support
Roofing is part of maintaining your home’s value. Storm damage, leaks—even years later—shouldn’t mean a dead line or evasive contractor.
Golden Master Roofing offers:
- 24/7 emergency tarp & repair
- Annual inspections and maintenance
- Support long after we’ve finished
A roofer who won’t return calls in year three isn’t built for long-term homeowner care.
7. Pricing That Reflects Value (Not Cheapness)
If a quote is far lower than competitors’, warning bells should sound.
- Undercutting means they cut corners—in materials, crew experience, or both.
- Golden Master Roofing keeps pricing competitive—but not cheapest.
- We provide full transparency in quotes, so you know what you're paying for.
8. Real Answers to Your Questions (FAQs)
Q: Should I get multiple bids?
Always. Show them the other quote. Any roofer worth hiring will explain the difference.
Q: What if I have insurance coverage?
Golden Master Roofing handles full insurance claims and offers waiver agreements to avoid depreciation holds and out-of-pocket gaps.
Q: Do you offer financing?
Yes. Plans range from 12 to 120 months, with 0% promotional terms available.
✅ Why Golden Master Roofing Is NJ’s Best Choice
- Licensed, insured, and GAF Master Elite® certified
- 15+ years supporting NJ homes through every season
- A lifetime workmanship guarantee and full GAF material warranty
- Transparent contracts—no hidden fees
- 24/7 emergency service, communication, and post-job support
- Hundreds of verified 5-star reviews
✅ Ready for a Roof You Can Trust?
Kicking the tires on roofing contractors? Demand documentation. Expect accountability. Only settle for verified partners.
Book a Free Roof Inspection & Estimate with Golden Master Roofing and get honest answers, real solutions, and a quote you can stand behind.
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