How to Vet a Roofer: License, Insurance & Reviews

When you need a new roof, you’re essentially becoming the hiring manager for one of your home’s most critical jobs. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the quotes and promises, but you have the power to make a smart, informed choice. The secret is knowing what to look for beyond a good sales pitch.

This guide is your playbook, designed to show you exactly how to check if a roofing company is legit. We’ll break down the process into simple, manageable steps, from verifying licenses and insurance to spotting the red flags that tell you when to walk away.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize Paperwork Over Price: Before discussing project details, confirm the roofer has a current state license and proof of both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. These documents are your fundamental protection against liability and shoddy work.
• Look for Signs of a Stable Business: A reputable contractor has a physical local address, a professional website showcasing their work, and a consistent history of positive customer reviews. These are indicators of an established, accountable company that will be there for you long after the project is finished.
• Treat the Contract as Your Blueprint: Never move forward without a detailed, written contract. It should clearly specify the scope of work, materials, project timeline, total cost, and payment schedule to ensure there are no surprises and that everyone is on the same page.

What Credentials Should a Reputable Roofer Have?

Before you get swept up in comparing shingle colors or project estimates, it’s important to cover the basics. Think of it as a background check for your home’s most important protector. A truly professional roofing company will have a standard set of credentials that prove they are legitimate, knowledgeable, and trustworthy. These aren’t just nice-to-haves; they are essential safeguards for you and your property.

Any roofer who hesitates to provide these documents should be an immediate red flag. A reputable contractor understands that these credentials build trust and will have them ready to share. Verifying a roofer’s licensing, certifications, and insurance is the first and most critical step in hiring the right team for your residential roofing or commercial project. It’s how you separate the seasoned pros from the storm-chasing opportunists.

Check for State Licensing

In Washington, a roofing contractor must be registered with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). This isn’t just a piece of paper; it means they’ve met the state’s requirements to operate legally. Always ask a potential roofer for their license number and the exact name it’s registered under.

Don’t just take their word for it. You can easily verify a contractor’s license online through the L&I website. This simple check confirms they are a legitimate business and gives you a path for recourse if issues arise. Hiring an unlicensed contractor might seem cheaper upfront, but it leaves you completely exposed if the work is done poorly or the project is abandoned.

Look for Professional and Manufacturer Certifications

While a state license is the minimum requirement, certifications show a roofer’s commitment to excellence. Look for contractors who hold certifications from leading manufacturers like DaVinci Roofscapes or James Hardie. These credentials mean the crew has been specifically trained to install those products according to the manufacturer’s strict standards, which is often necessary to validate the material warranty.

Additionally, memberships in professional organizations like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) indicate a dedication to staying current with industry best practices, safety standards, and ethical business operations. These extra qualifications demonstrate a roofer’s investment in their craft and their commitment to delivering high-quality commercial siding and roofing work.

Confirm They’re Insured and Bonded

This is non-negotiable. A legitimate roofer must carry both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. General liability protects your property from any damage that might occur during the project, while workers’ compensation covers the contractor’s employees if they get injured on your job site. Without it, you could be held financially responsible for accidents.

Being “bonded” provides another layer of protection. A surety bond ensures that if the contractor fails to complete the job or pay their suppliers, you are financially covered. Ask for a certificate of insurance and confirm it’s current. Any professional company will provide this documentation without hesitation, giving you peace of mind that you’re fully protected.

How to Verify a Roofer’s Insurance and Bonding

Before you let anyone set foot on your roof, you need to confirm they have the right insurance and bonding. This isn’t just a formality; it’s your primary financial protection against accidents. If an uninsured worker gets hurt on your property, you could be held liable for their medical bills. If the roofer accidentally damages your home (or your neighbor’s), their general liability insurance should cover the repairs.

A professional roofing company will carry two essential types of insurance: general liability and workers’ compensation. General liability covers property damage, while workers’ compensation covers injuries sustained by the contractor’s employees while on your job site. Asking for proof of both is a standard and necessary step in hiring a contractor. Any hesitation to provide this information is a serious red flag. At Landmark Roofing & Siding, we readily provide our insurance details because we believe in complete transparency and protecting our clients.

Ask for a Certificate of Insurance

Your first step is to ask the roofing contractor for their Certificate of Insurance (COI). This is a one-page document issued by their insurance company that summarizes their coverage, including policy numbers, effective dates, and coverage limits. Don’t just take their word for it—get the physical or digital document in your hands.

When you review the certificate, check three key things:

1. The company name on the policy matches the company you’re hiring.
2. The policy is current and won’t expire in the middle of your project.
3. The coverage limits are sufficient for the scope of your project. A minimum of $1 million in general liability is a good benchmark.

Contact the Insurance Provider Directly

Once you have the Certificate of Insurance, take the extra step to verify it. While most contractors are honest, a COI can be forged or outdated. The certificate will list the insurance provider’s name and contact information. Call them directly to confirm that the policy is active and in good standing.

Tell the insurance agent you are a potential client and want to verify coverage for the roofer. This quick phone call gives you definitive proof that the contractor is covered and that you’re protected. It’s a simple action that provides total peace of mind and is a crucial part of your due diligence before signing a contract.

Verify Their Bonding Status

Insurance and bonding are often mentioned together, but they serve different purposes. While insurance covers accidents, a surety bond protects you if the contractor fails to meet their obligations. For example, if the company goes out of business mid-project, fails to pay subcontractors (who could then place a lien on your home), or doesn’t complete the work according to the contract, the bond provides financial recourse.

Ask the roofer if they are bonded and request proof. Just like with insurance, you can contact the surety company that issued the bond to confirm it is valid. A bonded contractor demonstrates a higher level of financial security and professionalism, showing they are a stable and reliable business you can trust with your home.

What Does a Reputable Roofing Company Look Like?

Beyond the official paperwork like licenses and insurance, a trustworthy roofing company has tangible signs of professionalism and stability. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t hire someone for a major project without seeing some proof of their work and their commitment to their craft. The same goes for your roofer. A company that invests in its community presence, its digital footprint, and its professional development is showing you that they’re in it for the long haul. These are the markers that separate a seasoned expert from a fly-by-night operation that might offer a tempting low bid but disappear when problems arise. 

Paying attention to these details—how they present themselves online, their connection to the local area, and their industry involvement—can give you a much clearer picture of who you’re about to trust with one of your most important assets. It’s about looking for a partner in your home’s protection, not just a contractor for a one-time job. These qualities demonstrate a level of care and accountability that goes far beyond the contract itself, giving you peace of mind that you’ve made the right choice.

A Local, Physical Address

A legitimate roofing company should have roots in your community, and that starts with a physical address—not just a P.O. box. A local office shows that the company is established and accountable to its neighbors. It’s a sign that they aren’t a “storm chaser” who will disappear once the job is done and the check is cashed. When you can find a company on a map, you know where to find them if issues arise. At Landmark Roofing & Siding, we’re proud to be part of the Redmond community and serve the greater Puget Sound region. A local presence means we understand the specific challenges of Pacific Northwest weather and are committed to being here for our clients year after year.

A Professional Website and Established History

In this day and age, a professional website is non-negotiable. It’s a company’s digital storefront and a key indicator of their legitimacy. A reputable roofer’s website should be easy to use, clearly outline their services, and showcase a portfolio of their past work. Look for evidence of an established history. How long have they been in business? A company with decades of experience has a proven track record of quality and customer satisfaction. You can cross-reference what you see on their site by checking online reviews on platforms like Google or the Better Business Bureau to get a well-rounded view of their reputation for services like residential roofing.

Memberships in Professional Organizations

When a roofing contractor is a member of a professional organization, it signals a commitment to their trade that goes beyond just finishing a job. Groups like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) require members to adhere to a strict code of ethics and stay current with the latest industry standards, materials, and installation techniques. While not a mandatory requirement, these affiliations are a strong green flag. They show that a company is serious about professionalism and dedicated to upholding best practices. It’s another layer of assurance that you’re working with a contractor who truly values quality craftsmanship and industry excellence.

How to Check a Roofer’s Reputation

A roofer can have all the right licenses and insurance, but what do their past customers have to say? A company’s reputation is built on real-world performance, project after project. This is where you get a true sense of their workmanship, communication, and reliability. Taking the time to dig into a contractor’s history can save you from headaches down the road. By checking online reviews, speaking with past clients, and looking at their professional standing, you can build a clear picture of what it’s like to work with them.

Find Reliable Online Reviews

Your first stop for checking a roofer’s reputation should be online reviews. A well-established company will have a digital footprint on sites like Google, Yelp, and Angi. Don’t just look at the star rating; read through the comments to find patterns. Are people consistently praising their communication and cleanup process? Or are there recurring complaints about delays and unexpected costs? A few negative reviews aren’t necessarily a dealbreaker, especially if the company has been in business for a while. What matters more is the overall trend and how the company responds to feedback.

Read Between the Lines of Customer Feedback

When you’re reading reviews, look for substance. A simple “they did a great job” is nice, but a detailed review that walks you through the customer’s experience is far more valuable. Look for comments that mention specific team members, the quality of the materials used, and how the crew handled the job site. Also, pay attention to how the company responds to criticism. A professional, constructive response to a negative review shows accountability and a commitment to customer satisfaction. A company with a long history of serving the Puget Sound area should have a solid track record of detailed, positive feedback from your neighbors.

Ask For (and Actually Call) Their References

Online reviews are helpful, but talking to a real person is even better. Any reputable roofing contractor should be willing to provide you with a list of references from recent projects. Don’t be shy about this step—and make sure you actually call them. This is your chance to ask specific questions you can’t find answers to online. You could ask, “Was the project completed within the agreed-upon timeline and budget?” or “How was the daily cleanup process?” Speaking directly with a past customer gives you unfiltered insight into what you can expect from the residential roofing or commercial project you have in mind.

Check Their Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is another excellent resource for vetting a company. The BBB assigns ratings from A+ to F based on factors like complaint history and business practices. Look up the roofer you’re considering to see their rating and read through any complaints that have been filed. Pay close attention to whether the complaints were resolved. An established company will have a public profile with a physical address. If you only see a P.O. box listed, it could be a red flag that they aren’t a local, permanent business. A strong BBB profile is a good indicator of a company’s commitment to ethical business practices.

Warning Signs: When to Walk Away from a Contractor

Trusting your gut is important, but knowing the specific red flags can save you from a major headache. A contractor’s behavior during the sales and contract process tells you a lot about how they’ll handle the actual job. If you spot any of these warning signs, it’s a clear signal to pause and reconsider before signing on the dotted line. A reputable company will be patient, transparent, and professional from the very first conversation. Anything less is not worth the risk to your home or property.

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

A professional contractor understands that a new roof or siding is a significant investment. They should give you the space and information you need to make a confident decision. Be wary of anyone who pressures you to sign a contract on the spot. This often comes disguised as a “limited-time discount” that’s only good for today or uses scare tactics, claiming your roof is in immediate danger of collapse. A trustworthy expert will provide a detailed estimate that’s valid for a reasonable period, allowing you time to review it and compare it with others. Your residential roofing project should start with confidence, not coercion.

Vague Pricing or Large Upfront Payment Demands

Transparency in pricing is non-negotiable. If a contractor gives you a quote that’s drastically lower than everyone else’s, it’s a major red flag. This could mean they’re using subpar materials, cutting corners on safety, or planning to hit you with hidden fees later. Similarly, be cautious of anyone demanding a large upfront payment or asking to be paid in cash. While a reasonable deposit is standard, you should never pay for the entire project before work begins. Using a check or credit card also creates a paper trail that protects you. A clear, fair estimate from a tool like a roofing cost calculator can help set a realistic baseline.

Incomplete or Unclear Contracts

A verbal agreement or a handshake won’t protect you if something goes wrong. A legitimate contractor will always provide a detailed, written contract before any work starts. This document is your protection. It should clearly outline the full scope of the project, the specific materials being used, a projected timeline, the total cost, and a clear payment schedule. If a contractor is hesitant to put everything in writing or gives you a contract that’s vague and missing key details, walk away. A proper contract ensures everyone is on the same page for your commercial siding or roofing project and protects your investment.

Key Questions to Ask Every Potential Roofer

Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few promising candidates, it’s time to pick up the phone or meet in person. This interview stage is your chance to dig deeper than what a website or online review can tell you. The answers—and how they’re delivered—will reveal a lot about a company’s professionalism, experience, and reliability. Think of it as a job interview, where you’re the hiring manager for one of the most important projects for your home.

Asking the right questions helps you compare contractors on an even playing field and ensures there are no surprises down the road. A reputable roofer will welcome your questions and provide clear, confident answers. If a contractor seems evasive, impatient, or can’t provide specifics, that’s a major red flag. Prepare your questions ahead of time so you can cover all your bases and make a truly informed decision. This conversation is just as much about gauging their customer service style as it is about confirming their qualifications.

Inquire About Their Experience and Specializations

Experience is more than just a number; it’s a track record of navigating challenges, understanding local building codes, and mastering different materials. As the experts at Long Home note, companies that have been around for many years typically know what they’re doing. Ask how long they’ve been in business and, more specifically, how much experience they have with your type of project. Whether you need residential roofing for a historic home or a durable solution for a large commercial building, you want a team that has seen it all before. Don’t hesitate to ask for examples of past projects similar to yours.

Clarify the Project Timeline and Warranty

A quality roofer provides a clear and comprehensive plan. Ask for an estimated start and completion date, and find out what factors might cause delays, like weather. It’s also crucial to understand the warranties they offer. You should receive a warranty for both the materials used and the contractor’s workmanship. A good company will provide a detailed written contract that outlines the scope of work, materials, timeline, and total cost. This document protects you and the contractor by setting clear expectations from the start. If a roofer is hesitant to put everything in writing, you should be hesitant to hire them.

Understand Their Communication Process

Clear and consistent communication is the foundation of a smooth roofing project. Pay close attention to how a company communicates from your very first interaction. As one industry expert points out, red flags include unreturned calls, missed appointments, or vague answers. Ask who your primary point of contact will be and how they will provide updates on the project’s progress. Will you get a daily text? A call at the end of each workday? Knowing their process helps you stay informed and reduces stress. A contractor who values communication is more likely to be a partner you can trust with your home.

How to Verify a Company’s Official Standing

Beyond online reviews and a slick website, you need to confirm that a roofing company is a legitimate, registered business. This step is about due diligence—making sure the company is accountable, recognized by official bodies, and operating legally. It might sound like a lot of detective work, but it’s surprisingly straightforward and gives you solid proof that you’re dealing with a professional. Taking a few minutes to check these official records can protect you from scams and ensure the contractor you hire is held to a professional standard. Think of it as the final background check before you invite someone to work on your most valuable asset.

Search State Contractor Board Records

Any legitimate contractor should be registered with the state, and this is easy to verify. In Washington, you can use the Department of Labor & Industries’ online tool to look up a contractor. Simply ask the roofer for their license number and the exact business name it’s registered under. When you look them up, confirm that their license is active and that there are no unresolved infractions. This simple search confirms they are legally permitted to work in your area and are accountable to a governing body. If a contractor is hesitant to provide this information or you can’t find them in the registry, that’s a major red flag.

Look Them Up in Business Directories

Third-party business directories offer an unbiased look at a company’s history and customer service record. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is one of the most trusted resources for this. Check the company’s rating and read through any reviews or complaints filed against them. Look for the “BBB Accredited Business” seal, which indicates the company has committed to the BBB’s standards for trust and ethical business practices. This isn’t just about finding positive reviews; it’s about seeing how a company responds to and resolves issues when they arise, which can be very telling about their approach to customer service.

Confirm Their Professional Memberships

When a roofer is part of a professional organization, it shows they are invested in their industry and committed to upholding certain standards. Memberships in groups like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) mean the company stays current on the latest materials, safety protocols, and installation techniques. While not a mandatory requirement, belonging to these associations is a strong indicator of professionalism and a long-term commitment to their craft. It’s another piece of evidence that you’re working with a serious, reputable business rather than a temporary operation that might disappear when you need them most.

Your Final Checklist Before You Sign

You’ve done your research, checked references, and narrowed down your list of potential roofers. Before you commit, it’s time for one last round of due diligence. Taking these final steps protects your investment and ensures you’re partnering with a truly professional contractor. This isn’t about being difficult; it’s about being a smart property owner. A reputable company will expect you to be thorough and will have no problem providing the information you need to feel confident in your decision.

Get at Least Three Written Estimates

It’s wise to get at least three detailed, written estimates from different companies. This isn’t just about finding the lowest price. Comparing bids helps you understand the typical cost for your project and spot any outliers. A bid that’s dramatically lower than the others might signal subpar materials or a desperate contractor, while an unusually high one could be an attempt to overcharge. Each estimate should be a comprehensive document, not just a number on a business card. Using a roofing cost calculator beforehand can give you a general idea of the budget, which will help you better assess the quotes you receive.

Read the Contract from Top to Bottom

Never, ever move forward without a signed, written contract. This document is your single most important piece of protection. Read every line carefully before you sign, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if something is unclear. A legitimate contract for residential roofing services will clearly outline the full scope of work, the specific materials being used (including brand names), a projected timeline, the total cost, and a clear payment schedule. If a contractor is hesitant to put everything in writing, consider it a major red flag and walk away.

Run Through a Final Verification

Your last step is to confirm the contractor’s credentials one more time. Ask for their state license number and then verify it with the appropriate local licensing office. It’s also a great idea to check their rating and history on the Better Business Bureau website. Reading recent reviews and any filed complaints can give you a final, unfiltered look into how they treat their customers. This simple verification process only takes a few minutes but can save you from significant headaches down the road by confirming you’re working with a legitimate and accountable business.

Related Articles

• Best Roofer Near Me? 6 Red Flags to Avoid in Redmond, WA
• 5 Tips: Evaluating a Roofing Contractor – Landmark Roofing & Siding

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a local, physical address such a big deal for a roofer? A physical address shows that a company is established and committed to the community it serves. It’s a sign of stability and accountability. Contractors who only have a P.O. box or operate out of a truck might be “storm chasers” who follow bad weather, perform quick work, and then become impossible to find when you need them for warranty repairs. A local office means you know exactly where to find your contractor long after the job is done.

What’s the real difference between a roofer being insured and bonded? Think of it this way: insurance protects you from accidents, while a bond protects you from the contractor failing to meet their obligations. General liability insurance covers any damage to your property during the project, and workers’ compensation covers their employees if they get hurt. A surety bond, on the other hand, provides you with financial protection if the contractor abandons the job, fails to pay their suppliers, or doesn’t complete the work as agreed in the contract.

Is the cheapest estimate always a bad choice? While a low price is tempting, an estimate that is significantly lower than all the others is a major red flag. It often means the contractor is cutting corners somewhere, whether it’s by using inferior materials, hiring unskilled labor, or skipping crucial safety steps. Instead of focusing only on the final number, compare the details of each written estimate to ensure you’re evaluating bids for the same scope of work and quality of materials.

What’s the single most important document I should get from a roofer before work begins? The most critical document is a detailed, written contract signed by both you and the contractor. This is your primary protection. It should clearly spell out the entire scope of the project, including the specific materials to be used, the payment schedule, the estimated start and end dates, and warranty information. A verbal agreement or a simple handshake is never enough to protect your investment.

Besides checking their license, what’s one simple check that tells me a lot about a company? Ask for their Certificate of Insurance and then call the insurance provider listed on the document. This quick phone call allows you to verify directly that their policy is active and provides the coverage they claim. It’s a simple step that confirms they are a legitimate business that takes protecting their clients seriously, and it gives you total peace of mind that you won’t be held liable for accidents on your property.