How Do I Know If a Roofing Contractor Is Licensed and Insured?

Hiring a roofing contractor is a big decision.


You’re trusting a company to work on one of the most important parts of your home. Before signing a contract, there are two things every homeowner should check:


Is the roofing contractor licensed?


Is the roofing contractor insured?


The easiest way to find out is simple:


Ask for their licensing and insurance information—and verify it before work begins.


A professional roofing contractor should be prepared to answer your questions and provide appropriate documentation.


Here’s what homeowners should know.


How Can I Tell If My Roofer Is Licensed and Insured?


Start by asking.


A professional contractor should be prepared to answer questions about licensing, liability insurance, workers’ compensation coverage, and required permits.


Don’t feel uncomfortable asking.


You’re trusting a company with your home and paying them to perform major construction work.


You have every reason to know who you’re hiring.


What Should I Ask a Roofing Contractor Before Hiring Them?


Start with two basic questions.


1. Are You Licensed?


Ask the contractor for their license information.


Don’t settle for:


“Yeah, we’re licensed.”


Ask for the actual information so you can verify that the licensing is current and appropriate for the work being performed.


2. Are You Insured?


Ask for proof of insurance.


Specifically, homeowners should ask about:


  • General liability insurance
  • Workers’ compensation coverage


These are not questions you should save until after the contract is signed.


Ask before hiring the contractor.


What Roofing License Should a Michigan Contractor Have?


For applicable roofing work in Michigan, homeowners should make sure the contractor has the appropriate state licensing for the work being performed.


Depending on the work, this can include a Michigan Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor License.


You don’t need to become an expert on Michigan contractor licensing.


The important thing is knowing to ask and verify.


If you’re comparing several roofing companies, make licensing one of the items on your contractor checklist.


Why Does Roofing Contractor Insurance Matter?


Roof replacement is major construction work.


Crews are working at height. Materials are being moved around your property. Old roofing is being removed. Dump trailers and equipment may be present.


Your driveway, landscaping, siding, windows, and other parts of the property can all be near an active job site.


That’s why insurance shouldn’t be treated as an afterthought.


Ask your roofing contractor for proof of general liability insurance and ask about workers’ compensation coverage.


A professional roofing company should understand why a homeowner wants this information.


Should My Roofing Contractor Pull a Permit?


Where a permit is required, your roofing contractor should address the required permitting process.


Permits can provide another level of accountability because the project may need to meet local requirements and be subject to inspection.


Requirements can vary depending on where you live.


Ask your contractor:


“Does this project require a permit, and who is responsible for obtaining it?”


You should get a clear answer before the project begins.


How Do I Verify a Roofing Contractor Before Signing a Contract?


Use a simple checklist.


Before hiring a roofer, ask:


1. What is your contractor license information?

2. Is the license current and appropriate for this work?

3. Can I see proof of general liability insurance?

4. Do you carry workers’ compensation coverage?

5. Will you obtain required permits?

6. Who will actually be performing the installation?

7. What workmanship guarantee do you provide?

8. What happens if I have a problem after installation?


You don’t need to be a roofing expert to ask good questions.


And you shouldn’t feel pressured because you’re asking them.


Is Roof Wiz Licensed and Insured?


Yes.


Roof Wiz is a licensed and insured roofing contractor serving Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana.


Roof Wiz is also an IKO Craftsman Premier roofing contractor and provides a 10-year workmanship guarantee on roofing services.


Those details matter because choosing a roofer shouldn’t come down to only the price at the bottom of an estimate.


You should know who you’re trusting with your home.


<h4>What Are Red Flags When Hiring a Roofer?</h4>


One of the biggest warning signs is a contractor who avoids reasonable questions.


Be cautious if you’re having trouble getting clear answers about:


  • Licensing
  • Insurance
  • Who will perform the work
  • Permits
  • Installation process
  • Cleanup
  • Warranty or workmanship coverage


Professionalism should begin before anyone climbs onto your roof.


Homeowners deserve straightforward answers about the company they’re considering hiring.


Does the Cheapest Roofing Estimate Mean the Best Deal?


Not necessarily.


Price matters. But it shouldn’t be the only thing you compare.


Consider the contractor’s:


  • Licensing
  • Insurance
  • Installation practices
  • Roofing materials
  • Cleanup process
  • Workmanship coverage
  • Local reputation
  • Communication


You’re not simply buying shingles.


You’re hiring the people responsible for installing the roofing system that protects your home.


The quality of that installation matters.


What Other Questions Should I Ask a Roofer?


Licensing and insurance are a great starting point, but don't stop there.


Ask how the contractor protects your property during the project.


Ask how cleanup is handled.


Ask what roofing materials will be used.


Ask about ventilation, flashing, and ice protection.


Ask what happens if damaged roof decking is discovered.


Ask about workmanship coverage.


And ask who you should contact if you have a problem after the job is finished.


A roofing contractor should be willing to explain their process in terms you understand.


Quick Answer: How Do I Know If a Roofer Is Licensed and Insured?


Ask the roofing contractor for their license information and proof of insurance before signing a contract. Verify that the license is current and appropriate for the work. Ask specifically about general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage, and confirm how required local permits will be handled. A professional roofing contractor should be prepared to provide clear answers and documentation.


Remember:


ASK. VERIFY. THEN HIRE.


Looking for a Roofing Contractor in Southwest Michigan or Northern Indiana?


Roof Wiz is a family-owned roofing company serving homeowners throughout Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana.


We provide roof replacements, roof repairs, inspections, asphalt shingle roofing, and metal roofing.


If you’re comparing roofing companies, ask us the same questions we’re telling you to ask everyone else.


We believe homeowners deserve clear answers before making a major investment in their home.


Know who you’re trusting with your roof.


Call 616-ROOF-WIZ or visit RoofWiz.com to talk with a Roof Wiz roofing expert.

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