How to Find the Best Roofers Near Me in Texas & Louisiana (2026 Guide)
Searching for "roofers near me"? This guide helps Texas and Louisiana homeowners find trustworthy roofing contractors, verify credentials, and avoid common scams.
TL;DR: When searching for "roofers near me," verify licensing, check reviews on multiple platforms, get 3+ written estimates, and confirm they carry proper insurance. Local roofers with established offices outperform out-of-town contractors on warranty service and emergency response.
Finding a trustworthy roofing contractor feels overwhelming when you're staring at dozens of search results. After a storm, the pressure intensifies as unfamiliar trucks appear in your neighborhood and door-knockers promise fast repairs.
This guide provides a systematic approach to finding, vetting, and hiring local roofers in Texas and Louisiana. Whether you need storm damage repairs, a full replacement, or routine maintenance, these steps protect you from common scams and ensure quality work.
Why "Near Me" Actually Matters for Roofing
Local presence isn't just about convenience--it directly affects the quality and reliability of your roofing project.
Warranty Service Depends on Proximity
Roofing warranties only matter if the contractor exists to honor them. Out-of-state storm chasers often disappear after collecting payment. A 2024 study by the Insurance Information Institute found that 78% of roofing complaints involved contractors from outside the homeowner's state.
Local contractors:
- Have permanent offices you can visit
- Maintain relationships with local suppliers
- Rely on community reputation for future business
- Can respond quickly when warranty issues arise
Emergency Response Time
When a tree branch punctures your roof at 2 AM, you need someone who can tarp it before the next rain. Local roofers typically offer same-day emergency response. We commit to emergency tarping within 4 hours throughout our Austin, Houston, and New Orleans service areas.
Permit and Code Knowledge
Building codes vary significantly between municipalities. Austin requires specific wind ratings for roofing materials. New Orleans has FORTIFIED building requirements in certain zones. Houston's energy codes affect underlayment choices.
Local contractors understand these requirements because they navigate them daily. Out-of-town roofers often discover code issues mid-project, causing delays and cost overruns.
How to Verify a Roofer's Credentials
Before scheduling an estimate, verify these essential credentials:
State Licensing
Texas and Louisiana have different licensing requirements:
| State | License Required? | Verification |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | No state license, but local permits required | Check city/county permit office |
| Louisiana | Yes - State Licensing Board for Contractors | lslbc.louisiana.gov |
Insurance Coverage
Request certificates of insurance directly--don't accept a contractor's word. Every legitimate roofer should carry:
- General Liability: Minimum $1 million per occurrence
- Workers' Compensation: Covers injuries on your property
- Auto Insurance: For vehicles bringing materials
Call the insurance company to verify the policy is current. Policies can be canceled after certificates are issued.
Manufacturer Certifications
Manufacturer certifications indicate training and warranty authorization. Key certifications include:
- GAF Master Elite: Top 3% of roofers nationally
- Owens Corning Platinum Preferred: Top 1% of contractors
- CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster: Factory-trained installers
- IBHS FORTIFIED: Hurricane-resistant installation training
Lapeyre Roofing holds GAF Master Elite certification and IBHS FORTIFIED designation, allowing us to offer enhanced manufacturer warranties and certified hurricane-resistant installations.
Red Flags: Warning Signs of Roofing Scams
After major storms, roofing scams increase dramatically. The Texas Department of Insurance reports a 340% spike in roofing fraud complaints following significant hail events. Watch for these warning signs:
Storm Chaser Tactics
- Door-to-door solicitation immediately after storms
- Out-of-state license plates on work trucks
- No local office address--just a phone number
- Pressure to sign immediately before "prices go up"
- Offers to pay your deductible--this is insurance fraud
Quote Red Flags
- Verbal-only estimates without written documentation
- Demands for large upfront deposits (anything over 30%)
- Cash-only payment requirements
- No contract or vague contract terms
- Prices significantly below other quotes (likely cutting corners)
Communication Red Flags
- Won't provide references from recent local projects
- Avoids questions about insurance or licensing
- Uses high-pressure sales tactics
- No permanent business address
10 Questions to Ask Every Roofing Contractor
Before hiring any roofer, ask these questions and evaluate their responses:
- How long have you operated in this area? Look for 5+ years minimum.
- Can I visit your office? Legitimate contractors have permanent locations.
- May I see your insurance certificates? Then verify with the insurer directly.
- What manufacturer certifications do you hold? Higher certifications mean better warranty options.
- Will you pull permits? The answer must be yes for any significant work.
- Who will be on my roof--employees or subcontractors? Employees indicate more control over quality.
- What is your warranty policy? Get workmanship warranty details in writing.
- How do you handle change orders? Unexpected costs should require written approval.
- What is your payment schedule? Avoid contractors demanding full payment upfront.
- Can you provide 3 recent local references? Then actually call them.
How to Compare Roofing Quotes
Get at least three written estimates. When comparing, ensure you're evaluating the same scope of work:
What Should Be Included
A complete roofing estimate should specify:
- Material specifications: Brand, product line, color
- Underlayment type: Synthetic vs. felt, ice/water shield locations
- Ventilation: Ridge vents, soffit vents, exhaust vents
- Flashing: Valleys, walls, penetrations, drip edge
- Decking repairs: How rotted sheathing will be handled
- Tear-off: One layer or full removal
- Disposal: Dumpster, debris removal, magnetic sweeping
- Warranty details: Both manufacturer and workmanship
- Timeline: Expected start and completion dates
- Payment schedule: Deposit, progress payments, final payment
Price Isn't Everything
The lowest bid often costs more in the long run. A 2023 study found that homeowners who chose the lowest bid spent an average of $3,400 more on repairs within 5 years compared to those who chose mid-range quotes.
Consider total value:
- Better materials may cost more but last longer
- Manufacturer certifications enable better warranty coverage
- Established contractors handle warranty claims reliably
- Proper installation prevents premature failure
Finding Roofers Near Me in Austin
Austin's roofing market serves over 1 million residents across Travis and surrounding counties. Key considerations for Austin homeowners:
Austin-Specific Factors
- Hail exposure: Austin averages 5-7 significant hail events annually
- Heat stress: 100F+ days accelerate shingle aging
- Wind ratings: City of Austin requires 90+ mph wind resistance
- HOA requirements: Many communities restrict material and color choices
Austin Service Areas We Cover
Lapeyre Roofing provides roofing services throughout the Austin metro, including:
- Central Austin, Downtown, Hyde Park
- Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander
- Georgetown, Pflugerville, Hutto
- Bee Cave, Lakeway, West Lake Hills
- Kyle, Buda, San Marcos
Austin office: Schedule a free estimate
Finding Roofers Near Me in Houston
The Houston metro area is the fourth-largest in the nation with unique roofing challenges.
Houston-Specific Factors
- Hurricane exposure: Gulf proximity requires wind-rated systems
- Humidity: 75%+ average humidity promotes algae growth
- Heavy rain: 50+ inches annually tests waterproofing
- Energy codes: Reflective roofing can reduce cooling costs
Houston Service Areas We Cover
Lapeyre Roofing serves the greater Houston area, including:
- Houston Heights, Montrose, River Oaks
- Sugar Land, Missouri City, Pearland
- Katy, Cypress, Tomball
- The Woodlands, Spring, Humble
- Clear Lake, League City, Galveston
Finding Roofers Near Me in New Orleans
New Orleans homeowners face unique challenges requiring specialized roofing expertise.
New Orleans-Specific Factors
- Hurricane protection: FORTIFIED certification available for insurance discounts
- Historic preservation: French Quarter and historic districts have material restrictions
- Flood insurance: Roof condition affects policy availability
- Licensing: Louisiana requires state contractor licensing
New Orleans Service Areas We Cover
Lapeyre Roofing serves the New Orleans metro, including:
- French Quarter, Garden District, Uptown
- Metairie, Kenner, River Ridge
- Lakeview, Gentilly, New Orleans East
- Marrero, Harvey, Gretna (West Bank)
- Slidell, Mandeville, Covington (Northshore)
New Orleans office: Schedule a free estimate
What to Expect from a Professional Roofing Estimate
When you contact a reputable local roofer, here's the typical process:
1. Initial Contact (Same Day)
A responsive contractor will return calls within a few hours. You'll schedule an inspection appointment, typically within 24-48 hours for non-emergencies.
2. On-Site Inspection (30-60 Minutes)
The estimator will examine your roof from both exterior and attic. They'll document existing conditions, measure the roof area, and note any visible damage or concerns.
3. Written Estimate (Within 24-48 Hours)
You'll receive a detailed written proposal covering materials, scope of work, timeline, warranty, and pricing. Reputable contractors don't pressure you for immediate decisions.
4. Questions and Clarification
A professional contractor welcomes questions and will explain every line item. If something seems unclear, ask for clarification before signing.
5. Contract Signing
Once you choose a contractor, you'll sign a detailed contract. Read every word. Ensure it matches the verbal agreements and written estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Start by checking Google reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings. Verify the contractor has proper insurance and manufacturer certifications. Ask for references from recent local projects and actually call them. Avoid door-to-door solicitors and contractors who pressure you for immediate decisions.
Get at least three written estimates from different contractors. This helps you understand the market price and compare materials, warranties, and service quality. Make sure each estimate covers the same scope of work so you can make an accurate comparison.
Key factors include: 5+ years in business locally, proper insurance (general liability and workers comp), manufacturer certifications (GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Platinum), positive reviews across multiple platforms, a permanent local office address, and willingness to pull permits for all work.
Never hire door-to-door salespeople immediately after storms. Avoid contractors who demand large upfront deposits, won't provide written estimates, offer to pay your insurance deductible, or can't provide a local business address. Always verify insurance certificates directly with the insurance company.
Texas does not require a state roofing license, but contractors must obtain permits for roofing work through local municipalities. Always verify the contractor will pull proper permits. This protects you from liability and ensures work meets local building codes.
Yes, Louisiana requires roofing contractors to be licensed through the State Licensing Board for Contractors. You can verify a contractor's license status at lslbc.louisiana.gov. Never hire an unlicensed contractor for roofing work in Louisiana.
A professional roofing company typically schedules an inspection within 24-48 hours of your call. The on-site inspection takes 30-60 minutes. You should receive a written estimate within 24-48 hours after the inspection.
The lowest bid often costs more long-term. Cheap bids may indicate inferior materials, inexperienced installers, or corners being cut. Focus on value: material quality, warranty coverage, contractor reputation, and installation expertise. Mid-range quotes from reputable contractors typically deliver the best results.
Hunter Lapeyre
Owner, Lapeyre Roofing
