Understanding Roofer Licensing And Credentials
Roofing projects always require careful consideration and planning. Whether you are replacing an old roof or installing a roof on a new home, the job will likely cost well into the five-figure range. Because the costs are so high and your roof is such an essential part of your home, it is crucial to work with a contractor that can get the job done correctly. While there are many aspects to choosing the right contractor, your vetting process should always include a thorough check of credentials. This short primer will help you to understand how roofers are licensed and insured in the United States.
The Basics: State-by-State Licensing
The federal government does not regulate residential roofing contractors in the United States. This lack of regulation means that licensing falls to individual state governments instead. Since each state is free to regulate roofers as it sees fit, the requirements to operate a roofing business can vary considerably depending on where you live. In general, states fall into three categories:
- Roofers do not require any form of licensing at the state level
- Licensing is required, but only as a form of registration
- Licensing is required, and roofers must pass an exam or show appropriate experience/education to qualify
Although the laws in most states fit within these broad categories, the details vary. Some states, such as Oklahoma, will only license roofers who can show proof that they hold adequate levels of insurance. Other states have multiple license levels that apply separately to residential and commercial roofers. Before you begin your search for a roofer, be sure that you understand your state's licensing requirements so that you can be sure your chosen contractor is fully compliant with state law.
Additional Credentials
Even if your state requires licensing, it is not the only form of credential that you should check for during your vetting process. Equally important is ensuring that your contractor is fully insured. Inadequate insurance coverage can potentially open you up to liability issues should a worker be injured on your property, and it can leave you high and dry if your contractor inadvertently causes damage to your home. What type of insurance should a roofer hold? Generally speaking, you should ensure that any roofer you are working with holds general liability insurance and an appropriate level of workers' compensation insurance.
General liability insurance protects businesses against property damage or injury to clients caused in the ordinary course of business. If your property is damaged, this type of insurance guarantees that you will be compensated. Without general liability insurance, you would be forced to sue the roofer for any damages, potentially leaving you without the ability to quickly or fully make yourself whole. Likewise, workers' compensation is insurance to protect the roofer's workers against injuries on your property. Without this form of insurance, you may be liable if a worker is injured while on your roof.
For more information about working with roofing contractors, go to sites like https://www.skerlec.com/.