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Roofing contractors face growing legal and financial risks from tariffs, material price increases, artificial intelligence in hiring and asphalt shingle granule loss. Attorney Trent Cotney shares strategies for updating contracts, managing customer expectations and protecting roofing businesses from costly disputes.

Trent Cotney is a construction law expert, but among his hobbies are being a roofing historian. He recently talked about both roles with Roofing Contractor from the show floor of the 2026 Western Roofing Expo.

After 30 years leading D7 Roofing Services, Jeff Williamson says one of his biggest early mistakes was spending too much time and energy worrying about money. Speaking with Roofing Contractor at the 2026 Western Roofing Expo, he urged contractors to focus instead on selling, installing quality roofs and moving the business forward. Williamson also emphasized mentorship, candid feedback and the importance of applying the lessons experienced professionals share.

Ken Kelly returned to the 2026 Western Roofing Expo to discuss coming out of retirement to rescue Kelly Roofing following a troubled private equity sale. He also shared advice for roofing contractors preparing to sell their businesses.

Economic uncertainty driven by fuel prices, tariffs and inflation is prompting building owners to prioritize roof maintenance and repairs over major capital expenditures. Service First Solutions founder Tracey Donels says this shift presents opportunities for roofing contractors to expand their service programs and build lasting customer relationships. He stresses that prompt responses, professionalism and consistently strong customer service are critical to meeting facility managers' needs and earning their trust.

A-Squared Marketing CEO Anna Anderson says roofing contractors should avoid letting marketing slow down late in the year and instead work the leads, customers and projects already in their databases. Focusing on reviews, referrals, search and AI visibility, and marketing performance can help contractors finish 2026 strong and build momentum for 2027.

As data center construction and conversions accelerate, roofing contractors can find opportunities in new roofs, restoration, repairs and long-term maintenance. Because even minor leaks can threaten costly operations, contractors must meet heightened technical, safety and security requirements while helping owners protect uptime.

Anna Anderson of A-Squared Marketing says contractors need greater marketing transparency to understand what every dollar produces in leads and revenue. Tracking lead sources, cost per lead and return on investment can help contractors identify underperforming channels and make smarter marketing decisions.

Storm season may be winding down, but the opportunity to strengthen your roofing business is not. Jon Abernathy, director of contractor engagement at TAMKO Building Products, joins the "Best of Success Podcast Show" to share lessons from more than 20 years as a roofing contractor. From better homeowner communication and consistent follow-up to documenting roof conditions with the right context, Abernathy breaks down common mistakes contractors can avoid while building a stronger customer experience. Listen to the full conversation and learn how getting the fundamentals right can make a lasting impression.

AI is improving efficiency across construction businesses, and Trent Cotney expects AI-powered robots to begin handling repetitive jobsite tasks sooner than many contractors anticipate. As robotics advances, contractors will need policies addressing safety, liability, cybersecurity, privacy and the verification of AI-generated information.

Win the Storm 2026 returns to Dallas Oct. 28-30 with education aimed at helping roofing contractors navigate a changing business environment. The event will feature keynote speaker Ed Mylett and dedicated programming on leadership, sales, technology, marketing, insurance and growing sustainable retail roofing operations. Founder Josey Parks says speakers are being challenged to give contractors actionable strategies they can implement immediately after the event.

Trent Cotney highlighted immigration enforcement, insurance payment disputes and proprietary technologies as major issues contractors should have on their radar. He encouraged employers to maintain proper I-9 procedures, reconsider contracts that rely entirely on insurance proceeds and plan for future warranty obligations tied to proprietary systems. His broader message was that contractors are better positioned to manage risk when they anticipate change instead of reacting to it.

Tariffs between the U.S. and Canada are creating potential pricing challenges for roofing contractors, particularly for materials, equipment and tools. Roofing Contractor Legal Insights expert Trent Cotney recommends reviewing contracts and adding price-escalation and material-substitution clauses to help manage unexpected costs and availability issues.

Google is moving Local Services Ads into Google Ads. Roofers should check account details, documentation and marketing support before the transition reaches them.

Listen as ICAA Executive Director Michael Kwart discusses the technology, safety and business issues shaping this year’s convention, from AI estimating tools to spray polyurethane foam compliance and contractor risk.