Your roof protects everything beneath it — your family, your possessions, and the structural integrity of your property. When it needs repair or replacement, the contractor you choose will determine whether the job is done properly or whether you end up paying twice. In Dublin’s competitive roofing market, knowing how to separate skilled professionals from unreliable operators is one of the most valuable things a property owner can learn.
Why the Right Contractor Matters More Than the Price
The most common mistake homeowners make when hiring a roofer is choosing solely on price. A low quote might seem attractive, but roofing is one area where cutting corners has serious consequences.
A poorly executed flat roof waterproofing job can fail within months. Incorrectly fitted flashing allows water behind walls. Inadequate preparation beneath a new membrane means the coating peels away rather than bonds. Each of these failures leads to the same outcome — you pay for the original work, then pay again to have it redone properly.
The cheapest quote is often the most expensive decision. A reputable contractor charges fairly because they use quality materials, employ trained operatives, and stand behind their work with genuine warranties.
What to Look for in a Dublin Roofing Contractor
Relevant Experience
Not all roofs are the same, and not all roofers have the same expertise. A contractor who specialises in slate pitched roofs may have limited experience with flat roof systems. Someone experienced with domestic properties may not understand the requirements of commercial or industrial roofing.
When enquiring, ask specifically about experience with your roof type:
- Flat roofs — built-up felt, single-ply membrane, liquid-applied systems like LAVA 20 or polyurea coatings
- Metal roofs — profiled sheeting, standing seam, corrugated iron, metal roof waterproofing and coatings
- Asbestos cement roofs — require specialist handling, HSA-compliant methods, and encapsulation or waterproofing rather than removal where possible
- Valley gutters and lead work — a common source of leaks that requires specific repair expertise
A good contractor will tell you honestly if a job falls outside their area of expertise. That honesty is a green flag, not a weakness.
Manufacturer Certification
The best roofing contractors are trained and approved by the manufacturers whose products they install. This matters because:
- The manufacturer has verified the contractor’s competence
- Warranty coverage is typically conditional on approved installation
- The contractor has access to technical support and the latest product guidance
If a contractor claims to install a premium waterproofing system but cannot provide manufacturer approval documentation, treat that as a serious red flag.
Written Warranty — Materials and Workmanship
A verbal promise means nothing when your roof leaks two years after a repair. Always insist on a written warranty that covers both:
- Materials — how long the waterproofing membrane or coating is guaranteed to perform
- Workmanship — the contractor’s guarantee that the installation was carried out correctly
The best contractors offer manufacturer-backed warranties of 15–25 years on systems like LAVA 20 liquid waterproofing. This means the guarantee is underwritten by the manufacturer, not just the contractor — so it remains valid even if the contractor’s business changes.
Insurance and Compliance
Any roofing contractor working on your property must carry:
- Public liability insurance — covers damage to your property or injury to third parties
- Employer’s liability insurance — covers their own workers (legally required if they employ staff)
- HSA compliance — Health and Safety Authority requirements for working at height in Ireland, including method statements and risk assessments
Ask to see certificates. A legitimate contractor will provide them without hesitation. If they cannot, do not let them onto your roof.
Red Flags to Watch For
Years of experience in Dublin’s roofing industry have shown us the same warning signs repeatedly. If you encounter any of these, walk away:
- Demanding large upfront deposits — a reasonable stage payment is normal, but asking for 50% or more before starting work is not
- No fixed address or business registration — check the Companies Registration Office (CRO) and verify the business exists
- Pressure to decide immediately — “this price is only valid today” is a classic high-pressure tactic used by unreliable operators
- No written contract — every job should have a written scope of works, agreed price, timeline, and warranty terms before a single tile is lifted
- Knocking on your door unsolicited — legitimate roofing companies in Dublin do not cold-call by going door to door
A trustworthy contractor welcomes your questions. If asking for references, insurance certificates, or warranty details makes them uncomfortable, that tells you everything you need to know.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Before you commit to any roofing contractor, ask these questions and evaluate the answers carefully:
- How long have you been trading, and under what business name? — verify continuity and reputation
- Can you provide references from recent jobs in Dublin? — ideally with contact details you can actually follow up
- What specific system will you use, and why? — a knowledgeable contractor will explain the options and recommend based on your roof’s condition
- What preparation work is included? — surface preparation is often where cheap contractors cut corners
- What does your warranty cover, and for how long? — get this in writing before work begins
- What happens if there is a problem after the job? — understand their callback and remediation process
- Are you registered with Revenue and do you provide receipts? — protects you legally and ensures the contractor is operating legitimately
Flat Roof Repairs — When to Call a Professional
Not every roof issue requires a full replacement. Many problems can be resolved with targeted repairs — but only if they are caught early and addressed properly. Our article on why you should never delay roof repairs explains the real cost of waiting.
Common flat roof issues that require professional attention:
- Ponding water — standing water that does not drain within 48 hours of rainfall
- Blistering or bubbling — indicates moisture trapped beneath the membrane
- Cracking at upstands and edges — the most vulnerable points on any flat roof
- Failed previous repairs — patches and sealant that have not solved the underlying problem
- Interior water stains — the visible symptom of an active leak that needs tracing to its source
Each of these problems has a proper solution — but that solution depends on accurate diagnosis. A professional contractor will inspect the entire roof system, not just the visible symptom, before recommending a course of action.
Why Dublin Property Owners Choose Dublin Protective Coatings
We are a specialist flat roof and protective coatings contractor serving Dublin and all of Ireland. Our approach is straightforward:
- Free, no-obligation roof surveys — we inspect your roof, explain what we find, and provide an honest recommendation
- Specialist systems — we install LAVA 20 waterproofing, polyurea coatings, and asbestos roof encapsulation systems
- Manufacturer-backed warranties — up to 25 years on materials and workmanship
- HSA licensed and fully insured — every job complies with Irish health and safety regulations
- Honest advice — if your roof does not need a full recoat, we will tell you
We have built our reputation on doing the job right the first time. That means proper preparation, quality materials, experienced applicators, and a warranty you can rely on.
Get a Free Roof Survey in Dublin
Not sure what your roof needs? We provide free, no-obligation roof inspections across Dublin and Ireland. Our team will assess your roof’s condition, identify any issues, and give you an honest recommendation — no pressure, no hard sell. See our full range of flat roof waterproofing solutions.
Choose the contractor Dublin property owners trust.
