| Quick Answer: Before signing a roofing contract in Gatineau, ask the roofer for their RBQ licence number, proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance, written warranty terms (both manufacturer and workmanship), a detailed written quote, and the project timeline and payment schedule. Verifying the RBQ licence and getting everything in writing are the two steps that protect you most. |
What to ask before you sign — at a glance
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| What is your RBQ licence number? | In Quebec, roofers must hold a valid RBQ licence. You can verify it yourself. |
| Are you insured for liability and workers’ comp? | Protects you if there’s property damage or a worker injury on your roof. |
| What warranties do I get, in writing? | Confirms both manufacturer (materials) and workmanship (install) coverage. |
| Can I get a detailed written quote? | Prevents surprise charges and defines the scope of work. |
| What is the timeline and payment schedule? | Avoid large upfront deposits; tie payments to project milestones. |
Why does the RBQ licence matter most?
In Quebec, a contractor performing roofing work must hold a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ). The licence signals the contractor meets provincial qualification and financial requirements, and you can confirm it before signing. The RBQ provides a public tool to verify a contractor’s licence. Hiring an unlicensed roofer puts your home and any warranty at risk.
What else protects you?
Beyond the licence, insurance and written terms do the heavy lifting. Ask for proof of liability and workers’ compensation coverage so you are not exposed if something goes wrong on site. Get the warranty, quote, timeline and payment schedule in writing. Be cautious of any roofer who pressures you to sign on the spot, asks for a large cash deposit, or won’t put terms on paper.
- Proof of current liability and workers’ comp insurance.
- Written warranty, quote, timeline and payment schedule.
- No high-pressure tactics or large cash-only deposits.
What are the warning signs of a roofer to avoid?
A few red flags reliably separate risky operators from established contractors. Storm-chasers and door-knockers who appear after a hailstorm, push you to decide today, and can’t produce a licence or written quote are the classic ones to walk away from. Local reputation matters too — an established Outaouais roofer like Cossette Roofing, accredited BBB A+ and operating since 2005, has a track record you can check.
Take a little time before committing. Get more than one written quote, read recent reviews, and make sure each quote covers the same scope so you are comparing like with like. A reputable roofer will be happy to answer questions, show proof of licensing and insurance, and give you time to decide — the pressure to “sign today before the price goes up” is itself a warning sign. Doing this homework once protects one of the largest investments in your home.
- No verifiable RBQ licence or proof of insurance.
- Pressure to sign immediately or pay most of the cost upfront.
- Quotes given verbally, with no written scope or warranty.
- No local address, reviews or verifiable history.
What should a good written quote include?
A clear written quote is one of the best protections you have, so look for specifics rather than a single lump-sum number. It should name the products being installed (brand, line and colour), describe the scope — including tear-off, any decking repair, underlayment, flashing and ventilation work — and state the timeline, the payment schedule, and both warranties. It should also spell out how unexpected issues, such as rotted decking discovered after tear-off, will be priced. When two quotes look far apart on price, the written scope usually explains why: one may exclude work the other includes. Comparing detailed written quotes side by side lets you judge real value instead of just the headline figure, and a reputable roofer will gladly walk you through theirs line by line.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check a roofer’s RBQ licence?
Use the RBQ’s public licence-verification tool with the contractor’s name or licence number before you sign.
Should I worry about a large upfront deposit?
Yes. Tie payments to milestones; avoid paying most of the cost before work is done.
Does the cheapest quote mean the best deal?
Not always. A low bid can mean cut corners or excluded work — compare scope, materials and warranties, not just price.
Why ask about insurance?
Without liability and workers’ comp coverage, you could be exposed if there’s property damage or an on-site injury.
Is Cossette Roofing licensed and insured?
Yes. Cossette Roofing holds RBQ licence 5697-7788-01, is fully insured, and provides written warranties.
Before signing a roofing contract in Gatineau, confirm the roofer’s RBQ licence, insurance, written warranties, a detailed quote, and a fair timeline and payment schedule. Verifying the licence and getting everything in writing are your strongest protections. Cossette Roofing is RBQ-licensed, fully insured and BBB A+ accredited, and provides written terms on every project. Comparing two or three detailed written quotes is the simplest way to protect one of your home’s biggest investments. A reputable roofer will gladly walk you through every line of the quote before you sign, with no pressure to decide on the spot.
Key takeaways
- Always ask for and verify the RBQ licence number before signing.
- Confirm liability and workers’ compensation insurance are current.
- Get both warranties — material and workmanship — in writing.
- Insist on a detailed written quote, timeline and payment schedule.