Can You Get An Illinois Roofing License With a Felony?

Yes, you can get an Illinois roofing license even with a felony record. According to the Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act, there are no felonies that automatically disqualify you. The IDFPR reserves the right to disqualify any candidate after a background check.

However, some felonies decrease your licensing chances. In this guide, we'll answer all your searing questions about backgrounds, license disqualifications, and criminal records.

How Many Roofers With Criminal Records Get a License?

According to the IDFPR, 95% of qualified individuals with a criminal record get their license. The IDFPR encourages people to apply for the license and undergo the vetting process. The Department of Professional Regulation states that:

"There are no convictions which would result in an automatic bar to obtaining a roofing contractor (qualifying party) license." - IDFPR Documentation (2020).

Every qualified individual deserves a chance at their life. Contact us if you have a record and are worried about your licensing prospects.

What Crimes Does The IDFPR Consider?

The IDFPR considers the following crimes while processing your application:

• First-degree murder
• Second-degree murder
• Drug-induced homicide
• Unlawful restraint
• Aggravated unlawful restraint 
• Forcible detention
• Involuntary servitude  
• Involuntary sexual servitude of a minor
• Predatory criminal sexual assault of a child
• Aggravated criminal sexual assault
• Criminal sexual assault
• Criminal sexual abuse
• Aggravated kidnaping  
• Aggravated robbery
• Kidnapping
• Armed robbery
• Aggravated battery  
• Aggravated vehicular hijacking
• Terrorism  
• Causing a catastrophe
• Possessing a deadly substance  
• Making a terrorist threat
• Material support for terrorism  
• Hindering the prosecution of terrorism
• Armed violence  
• Any offense requiring registration under the Sex Offender Registration Act
• Any offense based on consumer fraud or deceptive business practices  

These crimes will not bar you from becoming a license holder. However, you must include these in your application. Failing to do so can lead to punitive action from the IDFPR.

Which Convictions Do Not Matter for Your Roofing License?

According to the IDFPR, the following convictions do not affect your licensing prospects:

• Cannabis possession or sale
• Traffic offenses
• Trespass
• Vandalism 

You do not need to mention these violations or misdemeanors on your licensing application. Furthermore, you do not have to disclose any convictions that have been expunged, sealed, vacated, or reversed by the court.

Note: You cannot hide a record, so please be upfront on your application. 

3 Things You Should Do If You Have a Felony Record

Getting a roofing license in Illinois is difficult, especially when you have a record. Here are 3 things you should definitely do before submitting your application for a license:

1. Be Upfront About Your Record

You are compelled by law to disclose previous felonies on your application. Failing to disclose your record could lead to a negative review of your application. Entering any false information on your application leads to a disqualification.

Be upfront about your record, irrespective of its severity. The IDFPR will find out one way or another, so you can't hide anything.

2. Expunge Your Record (If Possible)

You do not have to disclose any felonies that were expunged, sealed, or vacated. Here's how you expunge your felony record:

• Complete your sentence, including probation, parole, and paying fines.
• Determine your eligibility based on the conviction type and time elapsed.
• Draft and file your petition if your records are eligible for expungement.
• Serve notice to relevant agencies, and if objections are raised, attend a hearing.

The court will expunge your record if all the requirements are met. Certain criminal records, such as DUIs, cannot be erased. However, you can have those records sealed through a similar process.

You cannot expunge your record if you have been convicted of a crime recently. Furthermore, the success of the expungement application depends on your behavior.

3. Focus On Your Ability and Experience

The IDFPR evaluates an applicant holistically. They consider your record and professional qualifications. Focus on your duty and the skills you need to fulfill said duties.

Here's what you should do:

• Document Your Training and Education: Include all relevant roofing courses, certifications, and training programs you've completed. The more qualified you are, the better your chances of approval.
• Highlight Your Work Experience: Provide detailed records of your roofing experience, including years worked, types of projects completed, and any specialized skills.
• Demonstrate Rehabilitation: Show evidence of positive changes since your conviction. This could include steady employment, community involvement, character references, or completion of rehabilitation programs.
• Prepare a Personal Statement: Include a brief explanation of your circumstances, what you've learned, and why you're committed to a career in roofing. Keep it honest, professional, and forward-looking.

Remember, the IDFPR is looking for competent, trustworthy professionals. Your skills, experience, and character growth matter more than past mistakes. The IDFPR will not deny you an opportunity as long as you're willing to turn over a new leaf.

Post-Licensing Crime and Risks

Committing a personal, business, or criminal offense can lead to disciplinary action. The IDFPR can suspend or revoke your license while placing hefty fines. The legal action depends on the severity of the crime and its connection to your professional abilities.

For example, unlicensed roofing work is considered a felony in Illinois. Other violations that can jeopardize your license include:

• Consumer Fraud or Deceptive Practices: Misleading customers about services, costs, or materials can lead to license suspension.
• Failure to Maintain Insurance: Operating without the required liability coverage or insurance can lead to countless issues and fines.
• Building Code Violations: Repeatedly failing to meet Illinois building standards is considered a crime and professional negligence.
• Contract Violations: Abandoning jobs or failing to complete work as agreed leads to lawsuits from the client and disciplinary action.

SB 2503 increased penalties and fines for license holders. If you do face legal troubles after obtaining your professional license, consult with an attorney immediately and notify the IDFPR as required.

FAQs on Roofing License and Convictions

How much does it cost to get a record expunged in Illinois?

Expunging or sealing a record costs $200 to $300 in Illinois. This cost includes application, postage, mailing, and copy fees. Depending on the severity of the crime, you might also need to hire a legal party to petition on your behalf.

How long does it take to get your record expunged in Illinois?

The record expungement process in Illinois typically takes between 4 and 6 months. The timeline depends on the court’s schedule, the completeness of your application, and whether the state objects to the request. Some counties process cases faster, while backlogged courts take longer.

Can Illinois employers ask about felony convictions?

Illinois employers cannot ask about felony convictions on a job application under the Job Opportunities for Qualified Applicants Act. Employers may only inquire after an interview or a conditional job offer. This law helps prevent discrimination and gives applicants with records a fair chance at employment.

Bottom Line on Illinois Roofing License Post Conviction

The roofing license board does not bar you from a roofing license automatically. There are no crimes that automatically disqualify you. However, having a felony record does increase your chances of disqualification.

You can increase your chances of success by being upfront on your application, providing evidence of good behavior, and expunging previous records (if applicable). Administrative bodies judge you based on your potential and intent of reformation.

Please do your best and focus on your skills. Contact the Illinois Roofing Institute if you have a felony record and want to turn over a new leaf. We've helped 3000+ roofers in Illinois achieve their dreams of success.