Ask what problem is being addressed
Request a plain-language explanation of the observed condition and why the proposed approach fits it. A treatment recommendation should connect to inspection findings rather than roof age alone.
Clarify exclusions and repairs
Ask what the treatment cannot fix, which repairs must occur first, how leaks and flashing are handled, and what conditions would disqualify the roof.
Review product and warranty information
Ask for exact product information, application requirements, documented compatibility basis, and warranty terms. Do not assume a field-applied product preserves every existing manufacturer warranty.
Keep a project record
Retain the assessment, photographs, scope, product documents, repair record, application record, care instructions, and follow-up recommendations.
Ask for evidence behind the recommendation
Request the roof type, visible condition summary, photographs tied to locations, known repair needs, and the reason preservation is considered technically responsible. Ask which areas could not be inspected and what would change the recommendation. Confirm that active leaks, missing roofing, flashing failures, decking concerns, and structural indicators were addressed separately. Ask how shingle manufacturer or product information was identified, if at all, and what source supports compatibility. A confident sales statement is not a substitute for a condition record or documented product instructions.
Clarify commercial terms without blending promises
Ask for the exact scope, preparation, application method, quantity basis, weather limitations, cleanup, access needs, homeowner responsibilities, exclusions, payment schedule, and cancellation terms. Identify who issues each warranty and obtain the complete written terms before work. Ask how repairs, pre-existing damage, storm events, future maintenance, and later roof work affect coverage. Confirm what documentation you receive after application and who responds if a concern develops. Do not rely on verbal added-life, savings, manufacturer-approval, insurance-approval, or universal-compatibility claims that are absent from verified written materials.
Decision takeaway
Use these questions to test whether the recommendation is evidence-based and whether the written scope matches the spoken promise. Responsible providers should welcome questions about defects, exclusions, preparation, product identity, compatibility, documentation, warranty issuers, and follow-up. If answers depend on an inspection or manufacturer response, record them as pending rather than assumed. Never authorize work because a generic age, savings, added-life, or universal-compatibility statement sounds certain.