Best roofers in New York, N.Y.

If there's one thing that's universally true about New York City, it's that it sure has a lot of roofs. New York, N.Y., is a sprawling megalopolis of glass towers, prewar tenements and everything in between. Unlike some of the other boroughs, Manhattan is dominated by flat-roofed apartment buildings with multiple units. As a result, most roofing work will be handled by landlords or co-op boards. We picked out our recommendations with this in mind. We worked to narrow the list by ranking the top roofers in Manhattan based on factors like online reviews, Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation and proper licensing. Then we called the top options for more info.

Top New York roofers

The best roofing company in New York for YOU

In most parts of the country, residential roofing happens on single-family homes. However, New York flips the script a bit. The roof on a tenement building might shelter six apartments, while the roof on a high-rise co-op could serve tens or hundreds of apartments.

When you're selecting a roofer for a Manhattan property, ensure that they're capable of working on your building. Most Manhattan properties will have a flat roof. While most roofers that serve New York City will be experts at working on these types of roofs, it's a good idea to double-check. For more info about flat roofs, read our guide to low-slope and flat roofs .

Tear-offs in New York City are very expensive, and some less trustworthy roofers might prompt you to do this when you might not need it. If you feel suspicious of the plan your roofer suggests, it's worth it to call more providers for a second opinion. 

William & Hugh Roofing is the best overall roofer in New York. This family-owned business provides exceptional customer service and fair prices. When we got the owner on the phone, we were beyond impressed with his authoritative knowledge of Manhattan roofing and generous rates. 

Five Star Roofing Co. is our top alternative roofer in New York. While the company has a few concerning reviews, overall, it provides excellent service and has maintained a 4.8-star rating on Google with nearly 500 reviews. The company provides expert flat roof service while also installing shingle, tile and metal roofs.

Table of contents

• Best overall roofer in New York

• Top alternative New York roofer

• Best national roofer serving New York

• More best New York roofing companies

• Why you should trust Yahoo Local roofing advice

• New York roofing FAQs

• Methodology

Best roofing companies in New York, N.Y.

William & Hugh Roofing is the best overall New York roofing company

There's a certain ethos to old-school New Yorker craftsmen, and William & Hugh Roofing has it. When we called in, we got the owner on the phone, and he was as straight-up, knowledgeable and genuinely likable as anyone could ask for. William & Hugh Roofing is a family-owned roofer based in Queens that has served the New York area for 55 years. It happily works in all the boroughs, including Manhattan. While roofing in Manhattan takes extra care — the owner mentioned how strict trash disposal is multiple times — the company is an expert at executing roofing jobs quickly and affordably.

The owner told us that since Manhattan roofs are largely made of TPO or other flat roofing, there are usually two options: a reroof or a coating. He said that while many roofers will try to upcharge you for roofing tear-off, you should be skeptical, as this can quadruple the price, and roofs often don't need it.

For a reroof, he quoted us $9,500 for a new Firestone 180 roof without a tear-off, all services included. This comes with a five-year workmanship warranty that would cover any repairs. After five years, call him for maintenance and you'll get another five-year warranty. For those who only need maintenance, he quoted us $5,500 for a silicone top coat, which would extend the life of a roof from five years to over a decade. However, the company also offers a flat roof tune-up special on its website for just $2,500.

Services offered

• Flat roofing

• Shingle roofing

• Roof maintenance

• Residential roofing

• Inspections

• Gutter repair

• Waterproofing

William & Hugh Roofing does not ask for down payments; instead, all payments are due at the end. The company takes cash, check or cashier's check for payment. It does not accept credit cards or work with financing. Since roofing permits are not required in New York City, this is not an issue.

The owner told us that moderately-sized roofing jobs are completed in a day, though a tear-off and deck replacement may take longer. The team bags all trash and debris on the roof and carries it away, using booms for protection. It is licensed and insured, so you need not worry about the insurance implications of roofers on your building. 

The company schedules about three weeks out, though opportunities open as clients cancel. Any weather delays cause the whole schedule to push back to the next dry day. When we asked if the William & Hugh Roofing team is background checked, the owner laughed and said he'd grown up with the parents and uncles of most of his employees. 

The company is accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating and no complaints. It has 4.9 stars on Google (53 reviews), 4.8 stars on Yelp (82 reviews) and 4.9 stars on Angi (76 reviews). 

William & Hugh Roofing is located at 45-12 #311 46th Street, Sunnyside, N.Y., 11104 in Queens. Its hours are 7 a.m. through 6 p.m., from Monday through Sunday. For a quote, reach out at 347-699-2260 or visit the website .

Customer testimonial

Reached out for a roof re-layering quote and spoke to Hugh. Very nice guy, honest and very responsive. Gave me a very reasonable price and told me no deposit needed, can pay after the work is done. We were booked for about a week out, his team came and did a fantastic job, took care of my concerns and did a tidy excellent job. Will highly recommend them to family and friends, thank you William and Hugh. - AliusLatus, Google reviews (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

* See Google reviews * See Yelp reviews

Five Star Roofing Co. is our top alternative New York roofer

Five Star Roofing Co. might be based in Ozone Park, but it's still one of the best choices for roofing in Manhattan. This company was quick to respond to our calls and offered us helpful, knowledgeable customer service, even while we could tell the representative was on site at a busy job. Though Five Star Roofing Co. installs roofs of all sorts, the representative we spoke to told us that it specializes in flat roofs.

Five Star Roofing Co. doesn't give out quotes over the phone; instead, it asks to book an estimate so that it can evaluate the scope of a given roofing job and outline the options available. Factors like an elevator and access will affect the price of the job, as well as the material selected. The company charges a 50% down payment to book a job. It offers financing and accepts checks, cash and credit. Cards are processed without a fee.

The representative we spoke to said that the company offers a wide range of flat roofs that all come with different warranties, which the company will describe in detail during the estimate. These include affordable options like the APP160 and APP180 modified bitumen roofs, as well as higher-end TPO systems. At the lower end, an APP160 roof will require more maintenance over time, while TPO roofs will likely require less. Five Star Roofing Co. doesn't just install flat roofs; the company also handles classic shingles, as well as luxury tile roofs and metal.

Services offered

• Residential roofing

• Commercial roofing

• Flat roofing

• Shingles, metal and tile

• Emergency roof repairs

The representative wouldn't comment on how long a roofing job takes, telling us that it entirely depends on the building. The background-checked team will remove all scrap from the roof in bags, which they will carry down the stairs or elevator, ensuring that all debris is removed safely. As with most roofers, rain in the forecast is a no-go. The team watches the weather closely and will push your job back for rain and snow.

Five Star Roofing Co. is not accredited by the BBB , but it has an A rating. It has had four BBB complaints filed against it in the last three years. The company maintains a 4.8-star rating on Google (460 reviews), a one-star rating on Yelp (two reviews) and a 4.7-star rating on Angi (61 reviews).

While Five Star Roofing Co. has mostly excellent reviews on Google and Angi, it does have a smattering of concerning reviews. The company's Yelp score is quite poor, though this one-star score is reflective of a total of two reviews. While we believe the company is a good choice, we do recommend taking the negative reviews into account when you make your decision.

The company is located at 97-06 101st Ave., Ozone Park, New York, 11416. It is open from 7 a.m. through 8 p.m. every day of the week. For a quote, call 718-795-6640 or visit the website .

Customer testimonial

This was a wonderful experience working with Nick and his crew. We had a serious leak which was coming through the kitchen ceiling. Nick came to give me an estimate and because it needed to be done right away, they acted came the next day. They came with nice clean T-shirts with their logo on it and they also had clean trucks. They fixed the roof and we just had a huge downpour and it is not leaking. The crew cleaned up so nicely and I would definitely recommend Five Star Roofing. - Rita I., Google reviews (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

* See Google reviews * See Yelp reviews

Best Choice Roofing is the best national roofer that serves New York

At Yahoo Local, our goal is to equip readers with the knowledge they need to make smart, confident decisions. Although our coverage often focuses on local businesses, there are occasions when choosing a national roofing company may be the better option. If you're deciding between the two, check out our comparison of national vs. local roofing providers . For homeowners in New York who are leaning toward a national brand, our top pick is Best Choice Roofing .

Headquartered in Tennessee, Best Choice Roofing operates dozens of offices across the Southeast — but its service area stretches much farther. The company now has 90 locations in 30 states, from Los Angeles all the way to New York. As a comprehensive roofing contractor, Best Choice handles roofing, gutter, and skylight projects for customers throughout the Southeast and beyond. Founded in 2009, this Tennessee-based company has grown into the nation's largest Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor and holds an average Google rating of 4.3 stars from roughly 200 reviews. On Yelp, it carries a one-star average — though that figure comes from only two reviews and does not accurately reflect the company's overall performance.

Most Best Choice Roofing offices focus on asphalt shingle roofing systems, but some can fulfill requests for specialized materials, such as metal roofing. The company includes a standard five-year labor warranty and also offers an optional lifetime extended warranty. As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, Best Choice provides a 50-year materials warranty for eligible Owens Corning products.

Like many large national roofers, Best Choice does not share pricing estimates over the phone. Instead, homeowners can schedule a complimentary on-site inspection. During this appointment, you'll meet with a Best Choice "solutionist," who will explain pricing, deposits, payment options, and other details. According to the representative we spoke with, these factors vary widely based on the job and location — meaning an in-person consultation is the only way to receive an accurate quote. Free on-site inspections can typically be arranged within 24 hours of your initial call.

Services offered

• Roof repair, replacement, and installation

• Free roof inspections

• Roof cleaning

• Gutter services

• Skylight installation and repair

As with most national contractors, Best Choice Roofing provides several financing options, which most customers choose to use. Those preferring to pay by card, check, or another method should confirm available options with their Best Choice representative during the inspection.

Best Choice Roofing is accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating and has received about 70 complaints over the past three years. The company's inspectors and project managers are in-house employees, while its installation crews are subcontractors — a common arrangement among large roofing firms. Best Choice conducts criminal background checks on all in-house staff prior to hiring, though not all findings result in disqualification.

To learn more about Best Choice Roofing, call 866-237-8246 or request a free inspection through the company's website . The roofer operates in 30 states nationwide. Nearby locations include The Jersey Shore office and The Hudson Valley office, which are located at 409 Joyce Kilmer Ave. #316, New Brunswick, N.J., 08901 and 555 East Boston Post Rd., Mamaroneck, N.Y., 10543, respectively. When we called to confirm that Best Choice Roofing serves Manhattan, the company did not confirm which office would complete the job, and hours vary by location. The Tennessee headquarters is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET and is closed on weekends. 

Customer testimonial

We had a great experience with Best Choice Roofing. We love our new roof. The whole process was easy from start to finish. The team that came in were very respectful and professional. They did an excellent job of cleaning up after they were finished. I would highly recommend them for any of your roof replacement needs. - Carri T., Google reviews (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

* See Google reviews * See Yelp reviews

More best New York roofers

You can count on Yahoo Local roofing advice, and this is why

For decades, Yahoo has been committed to offering accurate, trustworthy insights into local businesses. We don't simply ask for your trust — we earn it. Our unique ranking system compiles user reviews from several established sources and applies weighted scoring to deliver what we consider the most reliable local business rankings. We also share exactly what goes into our methodology so you can evaluate its credibility for yourself — the details are outlined below. And unlike certain competitors, Yahoo Local does not take payment for inclusion or placement. Our selections are entirely independent, never "sponsored," and not shaped by outside influence. Curious to learn more? Visit our full methodology page .

Below is everything that went into the rankings for our list of the best roofing companies in New York:

• 69 roofers evaluated

• 2,699 customer reviews and ratings from five sources

• Eight ranking criteria incorporated

• Interviewed or connected with three featured roofers

• Independent price quotes sought from three featured roofing companies

• Independently researched and fact-checked by Yahoo

• Recommendations are maintained and updated regularly

New York roofing FAQs

How much does the average roof replacement cost in New York?

Roof replacement costs in New York City tend to be higher than the statewide average. While the Manhattan roofers we approached didn't give us exact quotes, when researching our guide to the top roofers in Brooklyn , most local contractors quoted prices ranging from $11,000 to $17,000 — well above the national average. The typical cost for a shingle roof replacement in the U.S. is about $9,519. Considering that New York City ranks among the most expensive places to live, this price difference is to be expected.

A number of factors can contribute to increased reroofing expenses, including roof size and design complexity. While the flat roofs that are usually found in Manhattan may be less expensive to replace than pitched shingle roofs, they can still cost a pretty penny.

How do I know if my roof needs repairs or a full replacement?

Most of us will need to rely on a trained, professional roofer to evaluate when we need a roof repair or replacement. That said, common sense can go a long way. If your roof has begun to leak, you should call a roofer immediately. However, there are other signs as well: Water pooling on your flat roof, shingles missing or obvious damage from fallen debris like tree limbs are all good reasons to get your roof checked out. Large storms like hurricanes or brutal winter snows can also be worthwhile moments to get your roof checked. Sometimes, homeowner's insurance may cover repairs after these events.

Are there roofing regulations or permits required in New York?

New York has specific roofing regulations that contractors must follow. It's essential to confirm that your roofing company complies with all local building codes. Be sure the business is licensed to operate in Brooklyn and obtains the necessary permits before starting any construction on your property.

For additional details, check out our complete guide to New York roofing company licensing and regulations .

How long does a roof typically last in New York?

Several factors influence how long a roof will last , including local weather conditions and the type of materials used. In New York, asphalt shingle roofs typically last between 20 and 30 years, which is consistent with averages across much of the country. However, higher-quality shingles can extend that lifespan considerably.

Flat roofs, which are common throughout New York City, generally don't last as long as shingle roofs. According to Apple Roofing, a Texas-based company, flat roofs can have a lifespan ranging from 10 to 40 years , depending on the material used to finish the surface.

Premium roofing materials — such as slate, tile, and metal — tend to offer longer lifespans and added durability. These higher-end options can last anywhere from 40 years to more than a century.

What is the best time of year to replace a roof in New York?

New York has a varied geography with four distinct seasons. New York City has a humid coastal climate that differs from the cooler conditions found in much of upstate New York. Ringed by rivers, estuaries, and the Atlantic Ocean, the city experiences everything from deep snows to hot, humid summers, culminating in the Atlantic hurricane season.

For most homeowners, spring, summer, and fall are the ideal times to plan a roof replacement. Although summer storms are common, the season typically brings the most stable weather for roofing projects.

Of course, favorable weather also means busier schedules for contractors. If you plan to schedule roofing work during the summer months, it's smart to make arrangements early. Fortunately, many of New York's top roofing companies — including those highlighted in this guide — continue to handle roof repairs and maintenance well into the winter season.

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