When it’s time for a roof repair or replacement, it can be easy to fall prey to roofing offers that are just too good to be true. The market is full of unlicensed handymen who offer steeply discounted roofing services – but at a cost that’s often disastrous. For this reason, homeowners should always work with licensed roofing contractors. If you’re not sure how to find out if a roofer is licensed, start with these tips.
How to Find Out If a Roofer Is Licensed
Why Use a Licensed Roofer?
- They’re knowledgeable: In order to obtain their license, roofing contractors have to prove their expertise through a series of tests. Licensed contractors are your best resource when it comes to industry-wide best practices including roof maintenance, roof repair, and any necessary permitting guidelines.
- They stick to contracts: Licensed roofers work under thorough contracts detailing the full project scope, materials, and project timeline.
- They’re insured: In the roofing industry, insurance isn’t just a luxury – it’s an absolute necessity to protect homeowners’ interests. Licensed roofers will carry the most up-to-date insurance, protecting you from liability in the case of property damage or worker injury.
Ask for Proof
Don’t be afraid to ask to see proof of your roofer’s credentials. A credible roofer should be more than willing to show proof of licensure and proof of insurance. You should also ask to take a look at their insurance policy, which should always include workers’ compensation insurance in case of injury on your property. If you’re not sure what to look for, you can check out a list of roofing insurance requirements by state.
Use a Third-Party Tool
Homeowners can also use helpful online tools to check individual contractors’ licensing. The Angie’s List License Check tool will help you get a feel for license requirements in your state. The tool also links to nationwide license verification websites, so you can double-check a contractor’s current license status before you sign on the dotted line.
When in Doubt, Check the Contract
If all else fails, make sure to thoroughly review your roofing contract before signing with a roofer. A standard contract should have several components:
- License Number: Make sure a roofer’s license number is prominently displayed on the contract along with the name of the company. A roofer’s license number should also join their company name on any business cards or advertisements.
- Timeline: Make sure your contract includes a clause that explicitly states that the services will be performed by a certain date. This date should allow for some flexibility around crew scheduling and weather conditions; however, you need to protect yourself in case the project runs unreasonably long. A timeline clause should specify the date on which the roofer must terminate your contract and refund your deposit.
- Mechanic’s Lien: Ethical contracts will also include several safety nets for the customer, including a mechanic’s lien clause that protects homeowners from the potential impact of a roofer’s unpaid bills if they leave the project unfinished.
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It can be difficult to navigate all of the contractors in today’s crowded roofing market. Ultimately, working with a licensed roofer is a necessity if you want thorough, ethical, and long-lasting roofing work. Your roof is perhaps your home’s most important investment – make sure you’re spending your money wisely.
You shouldn’t have to wonder how to find out if a roofer is licensed. If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help with your roof. Our experts can help you explore new roofing options, maintain an older roof, perform emergency repairs, complete tear-offs and recovers, and perform remodeling services. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information regarding roofing options, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!