You found a roofer that promises he can work quickly, cheaply, and efficiently. There’s just one problem: He’s not licensed. Is that really the dealbreaker everyone makes it out to be? Why is it important to use a licensed roofer?
Why Is It Important to Use a Licensed Roofer?
Roofing scams are unfortunately all too common, and the stories are sadly similar. A family pays a contractor to fix the roof, and then the work isn’t completed or is completed so poorly that it actually damages the roof more in the process. The family tries to seek help, but then they learn their roofer isn’t licensed or insured— and they’re on the hook for every penny.
Sometimes inexperienced homeowners are tempted to work with an unlicensed roofer. However, it’s important to remember that when it comes to roofing, you get what you pay for. And if you pay for an unlicensed roofer, what you’re buying is trouble.
A Licensed Roofer Is Prepared to Get the Job Done
If you’ve never worked with a contractor before, you might wonder why it’s so important to work with a licensed roofer. After all, if someone knows how to fix a roof, isn’t that good enough? While it may not seem like that big of a deal, a licensed roofer brings several important advantages to the job:
- Licensed roofers have to prove that they have certain skills and abilities in order to get their licenses. If a roofer has a license, that’s reassurance that they know what they’re doing when they’re working on your home or business.
- Licensed roofers also know how to handle every piece of the job, including some pieces you may not be aware of, like pulling permits. If a roofer isn’t keeping their own paperwork up to date, do you really want to trust them to take care of yours?
- Licensed roofers carry insurance that will help if something goes wrong on the job, like workman’s compensation and general liability. This not only provides reassurance but also shows that the roofer is invested in their business and their team.
- Licenses can help you avoid roofing scammers. If a roofer is licensed, there are mechanisms to hold them accountable if a job goes wrong. If they’re unlicensed, they can disappear with your money at any time, often before the job is complete.
How Can I Make Sure I’m Working with a Licensed Roofer?
Hopefully, we’ve talked you into working with a licensed roofer. But how can you be sure your roofer is appropriately licensed? Follow these tips to make sure you’re hiring a roofer you can count on:
- Look up their licensing status with your state or local board. Most licensing boards have simple online portals you can use. Remember that licenses do not transfer across state lines, so even if a roofer is licensed in another state, they still need to be licensed in your state to work on your home or business.
- Check and see if they’re registered as a business in your home state. This is more likely to be required for companies instead of individual contractors, but it’s another way to check and see if they’re legitimate.
- Don’t forget to check reviews on sites like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau too. If a roofer is falsely representing themselves as licensed, odds are someone will note it. It’s also a good way to check out a roofer in general. One or two bad reviews aren’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but if there are consistent complaints or open cases against your contractor, think twice before you sign a contract.
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Do you need a fully licensed and insured roofer? If you live in Missouri, look no further than Taylor-Made Roofing. We’ve been in the roofing business for over 20 years. Give us a call and see what we can do for you.
If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help with your roofing needs. Our experts can help you explore new roofing options, maintain an older roof, perform emergency repairs, complete tear-offs, and recover, 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!