When you have a roofing contractor come repair your roof, you don't need to be terribly involved in the process. That's the beauty of hiring a professional. They know what they're doing, and you can leave them to do the work. It may, however, be wise to have a more in-depth conversation with your roofer before they begin the repair process. Here are some questions worth asking during this conversation.
Could the repairs be covered under warranty?
Sometimes, there may be a warranty in effect that could cover all or part of the cost of the roof repairs. Some roofing materials come with a warranty. Some roofers also warranty their work for a number of years. If the roofer who is about to repair your roof is the one who installed it, definitely ask about the warranty so they can check their records and see whether there is one in effect. While roofers should check this without you having to prompt them, sometimes they forget—and a reminder ensures nothing is overlooked.
Are the repairs really worth making?
If you have a roofer come to your house and you say "could you repair this roof?" they will typically say "yes." But there may be cases in which, given the choice, the roofer would actually recommend replacing the roof instead. They may not tell you this if you specifically ask for repairs from the get-go. On the other hand, if you ask whether they'd recommend repairs or a replacement, you give them a chance to offer their true opinion—and then you can base your decision on that opinion. If the repairs are extensive and your roofer thinks you're better off just replacing the whole roof, that's an approach you'll need to consider.
Is there more than one approach they can take?
In some cases, there may be more than one way a roofer can fix your roof. There may be a quick way and a more involved, but longer-lasting way. It's worth asking your roofer about these approaches so you can decide which one is best for you. If you are planning on replacing the roof soon anyways, the quick and cheap option may be best. On the other hand, if the roof is newer and you'll be in the home for a while, it's often worth paying for more involved and permanent repairs.
Talk to your roofer before having your roof repaired. It's usually worth asking these questions!