Do Roofers Need to Be Licensed? State-by-State Requirements

Yes, according to most state laws, you need to be licensed to become a roofer. According to most state roofing laws, undertaking any roofing work without a license is illegal. For example, you must get a license to become a roofer in states like Illinois. 

While some may think of it as an unnecessary hurdle, employing a licensed roofer is more important than you think. A licensed roofer knows what they are doing, meaning your projects are in safe hands. In this guide, we'll look at the reasons why roofing licenses matter, state-level requirements, and more.

Why Roofing Licenses Matter: For Roofers and Owners

A roofing license ensures that the roofers know about proper installation techniques, building codes, and materials. As an owner looking for a contractor, you must find a credible and licensed roofer. It will keep accidents, costs, and unnecessary legal inquiries from the building inspection board at bay.

Roofers need to be licensed because it is a legal requirement. In most states, doing roofing work without a license is grounds for heavy fines and penalties. Furthermore, roofing is a technical profession that requires theoretical and practical knowledge.

You cannot become a roofer without understanding the necessary laws and practices. The only way to show the world that you know your stuff is to get a roofing license. 

State Licensing Requirements for Roofers

Some states require licensing for all roofing work, while others have different requirements for residential roofing and commercial projects. To make it easier, we will break down the roofing license requirements of the States into three categories.   

1. Strict-License States

These states have robust licensing systems for roofing contractors. You'll have to pass exams, provide insurance, and acquire surety bonds. Here's a list of a few strict-license states: 

• Florida
• Illinois
• Loisiana 
• Nevada

Roofing contractors applying for the license must have 2-5 years of documented roofing experience and pass one or more roofing exams. Furthermore, roofers must provide a surety bond and the necessary insurance before beginning a project. 

For example, California requires a C-39 Roofing Contractor License for projects over $500, a few years of work experience, and a mandatory requirement to pass exams. Always check with the contractors state license board and local roofing contractors association for information on the required licenses.

2. No Statewide License States

These states don't outline specific state-level licensing requirements for roofers. However, this doesn't mean that the roofers are unregulated. Here's a list of the states that have no general licenses:

• Colarado 
• Texas
• Arizona
• Missouri 
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania 

In these areas, roofers don't need an official state level license, but they do need local permits for roofing jobs. Meaning, homeowners must be extra diligent when hiring roofers in these states by checking proof of insurance and references.

We'd also recommend checking the state licensing board for contractors to check the laws regarding their specific profession. For example, you will need a permit to do roofing work in the state of Colorado. 

3. Hybrid States

Expect a mix of regulations in these states. They often require general contractor licenses that cover roofing. Or, they might require licenses only for projects that go above a certain project value. These hybrid states include:

• Alabama 
• Arkansas
• Georgia
• Michigan 
• Tennessee
• Virginia

Roofers might often require a general license rather than a roofing license. Whereas in some states, there are local licensing requirements for jobs that exceed a certain amount, for example, $2,500. 

At the same time, there might be license types for residential and commercial roofing projects. In states like these, we highly recommend checking with the local municipality and governing body for clarity.

How to Verify a Roofer’s Contractor License

According to Forbes, a roof replacement can cost anywhere from $6,700 to $80,000. You need to verify a roofer's identity and license to protect your investments. Here's how you can verify a roofing contractor's license:

• Ask the roofing companies for their license number and business name. 
• Find out if the license issued is local or state-specific. 
• Go to the official government site or the State's contractor license board online.
• Use the license lookup tool and check the license's status, expiry, type of license, and disciplinary actions.
• Ask for General Liability and Workers' Compensation certificates. 

For better measure, you can call the insurance agency to check the validity of their policy. Meanwhile, if you're based in Illinois, then here's how to check the business and professional roofing license:

• Get the roofer's license information.
• Go to the IDFPR License Lookup page. 
• Select Roofing Contractor from the license type. 
• Search for the license number or the business name. 
• Check if it's a residential license or an unlimited license, depending on your project type.

What Are the Risks of Hiring an Unlicensed Roofer?

Hiring an unlicensed roofer might save you money in the short term, but the risks that follow the project will cost double. Here are the risks of hiring an unlicensed roofer:

1. Zero Insurance Coverage

You will be held liable to pay if the roofer gets injured on your property. Meaning, you will have to pay all medical bills, lost wages, and legal costs. In case the roofer damages your or your neighbour's property, you'll be stuck paying for it.

Unlicensed roofers won't have the general liability roofing insurance to cover the repairs. In fact, your insurance agency might deny claims because you've hired an unlicensed worker.

2. Low Quality Roofing Material 

Unlicensed roofers often lack proper training, knowledge of building codes, and experience. They might install the roof incorrectly, which could lead to hazardous situations. They might even cut corners on the material, which means a lesser cost in the short term but a catastrophe in the long term. 

Low-quality materials or improper installation can lead to more repair costs. In short, you'll have to pay twice for the same roof when you could have just paid once with a licensed roofer.

3. Legal Violations 

Without a specific license, the roofers often skip getting the building permits. Meaning, your roof won't be inspected for safety or code compliance. You can get fined by the local building department, HOA, and other parties.

If unpermitted work is discovered upon a future inspection, you could face fines or might be forced to redo the entire roof at your own expense. It is important to check the roofing license of every potential roofer before you sign a contract.

4. No Warranties 

Without a specific license, you can't ask the roofers for fixes since there's no warranty. In most instances, they mostly disappear once the project is done. If the roof is installed properly or gets damaged, you can't even apply for homeowners' insurance.

You cannot bring the matter to legal authorities because the roofer was unlicensed. Always hire a licensed roofer because that's the best way to protect your investment. 

How Do Roofers Get a Roofing Contractor License?

A roofing license is issued by the relevant state governing body for professional regulation. Some popular governing bodies include the Louisiana State Licensing Board, IDFPR, the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, and the Mississippi State Board of Contractors.

In the states that require a professional license, you must apply for the license through the board and pass an exam with at least 70% marks. For example, here's how you get a roofing license in Illinois:

• Choose between a Limited and Unlimited License. 
• Designate a qualifying party who will appear for the exam and oversee roofing projects.
• Apply online through the IDFPR website and Continental Testing Services.
• Pay the relevant application and examination fees.
• Pass the Residential or Commercial exam. 
• Obtain a surety bond of $10,000 for a limited license and $25,000 for an unlimited license. 
• Get insurance for property damage ($250,000), general liability ($500,000), and workers' compensation. 

These steps change based on the type of license you're obtaining and the state. For example, the state licensing board for general contractors in Arizona doesn't have a specific clause for roofing licenses. You only have to get a General Contractor license based which has a different application and examination process.

FAQs on Roofers' License Necessity

Do roofers need to be licensed in Illinois?

Roofers in Illinois must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. A Residential or Commercial Roofing License is required depending on the scope of work. Unlicensed roofing work is illegal and can lead to fines, penalties, and other consequences.

Why do States require roofers to be licensed?

States require roofers to be licensed to ensure consumer protection, make sure of quality workmanship, and enforce building codes. Licensing verifies that roofers have the necessary skills, insurance, and experience to perform work safely and legally. It also provides a system for accountability and dispute resolution.

How to get a roofing license in Illinois?

Apply through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Submit a completed application, proof of insurance, and pass the required exam. Choose between the type of license, i.e., a Residential, Commercial, or Unlimited license, based on your services. Pay all associated fees and submit.

Bottom Line on Do Roofers Need Licenses

According to the laws across the US, most states require roofers to be licensed. While the laws change drastically across the states, most have clear stipulations for roofers and contractors. For example, roofers in Illinois need a Limited or Unlimited License to perform any roofing work.

You need to become a certified contractor, even in states that don't offer a roofing license. You should always check with the local governing body to understand the legal requirements. Doing this will save you from unnecessary fines and penalties when you take on roofing projects.

If you live in Illinois and want to become a roofer, join our classes. At the Illinois Roofing Institute, we prepare you for all the twists and turns in the roofing industry, including the roofing exam. Join our roofing classes today and become the best at what you do.