When your roof needs attention—whether it’s a minor repair or a full replacement—you’re not just hiring someone with a ladder and some tools.
You’re trusting someone with your home’s first line of defense against the elements.
That’s why it’s so important to make sure your roofing contractor is licensed and insured.
Sure, it might not be the flashiest part of the project, but these credentials are what separate professional protection from potential disaster.
In this guide, we’ll walk through why these qualifications are essential, what risks you avoid by hiring correctly, and how Gorilla Roofing goes above and beyond to keep your home safe.
What Is a Roofing License?
A roofing license is an official authorization from your state or municipality that allows a contractor to legally perform roofing services.
It typically requires a mix of:
- Proven experience in the roofing industry
- Passing trade and business exams
- Proof of general liability and/or workers’ comp insurance
- Compliance with local building codes
Licenses are not “one-size-fits-all.” Requirements vary from state to state—and even between cities.
Did you know?
In states like Florida and California, roofing contractors must meet strict licensing standards, while in Texas, licensing is not required at the state level (though many local jurisdictions have their own rules).
You can look up your state’s licensing requirements here.
What Is Contractor Insurance—and Why Does It Matter?
Licensed contractors are required to carry insurance—and for good reason.
There are two key policies every roofer should have:
1. General Liability Insurance
This protects you, the homeowner, in case of accidental property damage or injury during the project.
Example: If a contractor drops a piece of equipment that breaks your window, general liability insurance should cover the repair.
2. Workers’ Compensation Insurance
If a worker is injured while on your property, this policy ensures their medical bills and lost wages are covered—without putting you on the hook.
Without workers’ comp, you could be liable for injuries sustained by a roofer on your property.
Shopping Smart: What to Ask Before Hiring
Hiring a roofing contractor shouldn’t feel like a gamble.
Here are key questions to ask:
- Are you licensed to operate in this state?
- Can you show proof of general liability and workers’ comp insurance?
- What warranties do you offer on materials and labor?
- Can you provide recent client references?
- How long have you been in business?
A professional will have no problem answering these questions—or providing the documents to back them up.
If they hesitate, walk away.
What’s at Stake Without These Protections?
You might think hiring a neighbor’s friend or someone offering “cheap rates” under the table is a smart move.
But that low bid could come with a very high price.
Here’s what could go wrong:
💸 Financial Liability
If someone is injured or property is damaged, you could be financially responsible—especially if the contractor doesn’t carry insurance.
🏚️ Low-Quality Work
Unlicensed roofers may lack formal training and could cut corners with materials or safety practices, leading to leaks, poor ventilation, or worse.
🚫 Voided Warranties
Most manufacturers require proper installation by licensed professionals. Use an unlicensed roofer and you might void your warranty before it even starts.
⚖️ Legal Issues
In some states, hiring an unlicensed contractor can lead to fines or project shutdowns.
Real-Life Scenario: The Worst-Case
Picture this: You hire an unlicensed roofer for a quick repair.
Midway through the job, one of the crew members falls from your roof and breaks a leg.
Turns out, the contractor doesn’t have workers’ comp.
Guess who’s responsible for the hospital bills and lost wages?
You are.
And that’s not even considering lawsuits or home insurance complications.
Avoid all of that by hiring smart from the start.
What the Experts Say
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), only about 10% of roofers nationwide meet high-quality, professional standards source. Licensing and insurance are two of the most reliable indicators of contractor reliability.
Furthermore, a 2023 study by JW Surety Bonds found that 28% of homeowners who hired a contractor experienced issues, with 45% of those mistakes costing $1,000 or more to fix. Additionally, 34% reported that the issue took over a month to resolve. The study highlights that contractors lacking proper licensing or insurance were commonly associated with these problems.
These findings underscore the importance of hiring contractors who are both licensed and insured to avoid costly and time-consuming issues.
How to Verify a Contractor’s Credentials
Want to make sure a roofer is the real deal?
Use these steps:
- Ask for documentation. Any reputable roofer should be able to provide a current license and insurance certificate.
- Verify online. Most state contractor boards let you search license numbers to confirm validity.
- Call their insurance company. Confirm that the coverage is active and appropriate for roofing.
- Read reviews. Look at Google, Facebook, and Better Business Bureau reviews for red flags.
Don’t just take their word for it—check it out for yourself.
If you just wrapped up a project, make sure everything’s in order with our post-roof installation inspection checklist.
Peace of Mind Starts with Proper Credentials
Your roof protects everything you hold dear.
Why risk that security by cutting corners with someone who isn’t properly qualified?
Licensing ensures your contractor knows the rules and plays by them. Insurance guarantees that you won’t be held liable when things go wrong.
Put simply: These aren’t just forms and policies—they’re your safety net.
Secure Your Home with Qualified Professionals
Your home is one of your most significant investments, and its roof plays a pivotal role in protecting it. By choosing a licensed and insured roofing contractor, you ensure that your roofing project is handled with expertise, complies with all regulations, and safeguards you from potential liabilities.
Ready to Protect Your Home?
Contact Gorilla Roofing today to schedule a consultation with our licensed and insured professionals.
📞 Call us at 636-295-1212
🌐 Request a FREE roofing estimate
Let’s make sure your roof—and your peace of mind—are built to last.