Your roof protects everything under it, so the contractor you choose matters more than almost any home decision. Here's how to separate the pros from the problems in New Jersey.
Verify these first
- NJ Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration — required to do this work in New Jersey.
- Insurance — general liability and workers' comp, so you're not liable for an injury on your property.
- Manufacturer certification — a GAF-certified roofer is trained and vetted to install (and warranty) the system properly.
- Real, recent reviews — look for a strong Google rating with a high review count and specifics.
10 questions to ask
- Are you licensed and insured in New Jersey? (Ask for proof.)
- Do you pull the permit and handle the inspection?
- Is the quote itemized — and do you have a no-change-order policy?
- Do you require a deposit? (The best answer is no.)
- What shingle line and warranty tier are you proposing?
- Who is on-site running the crew?
- How do you protect my landscaping and clean up?
- What happens if you find rotted decking?
- What's the workmanship warranty?
- Can I see reviews from homeowners near me?
Red flags — walk away if you see these
- High-pressure "sign today" closing and prices that drop three times.
- Large upfront deposits before any work begins.
- Storm chasers who knock on your door after a storm and pressure you to sign over your insurance claim.
- No written, itemized quote — or vague language that invites change orders.
- No NJ license or insurance.
The Lightning standard
Lightning Construction is a veteran-owned, GAF-certified, licensed and insured NJ contractor with a 4.9-star rating from 264 homeowners. We give one honest, itemized number with no money down and no change orders — and zero pressure. Compare us on your own timeline. Get a free estimate.