If you’re planning for a roof replacement, you’re likely doing your homework — reading reviews, asking for estimates, and checking for red flags. But here’s something many homeowners overlook until it’s too late: Is the roofing contractor licensed and insured?
That might sound like a formality. After all, if they’ve got a truck, a website, and a crew, they must be legitimate, right? Not necessarily. And in Virginia — specifically in Roanoke — the answer to whether roofers need to be licensed and insured isn’t just yes. It’s essential. Roofing without a license or proper insurance not only puts your home at risk, it can put you — the homeowner — on the hook for costly repairs or liabilities.
In this article, we’ll explain why hiring licensed roofers in Roanoke and working with insured roofers in Roanoke is not just recommended, but the smartest move you can make. We’ll also break down roofing regulations in Roanoke, what a valid license covers, and how 220 Roofing & Restoration ensures every project meets — and exceeds — these standards.
Why Licensing and Insurance Matter More Than Most Homeowners Think
Your Home Is a Major Investment
When you’re making improvements to your home — particularly your roof — you’re protecting what’s likely your most valuable asset. Hiring someone without proper credentials is a gamble that simply isn’t worth taking.
Unlicensed contractors may offer lower prices, but that discount often comes with shortcuts in materials, poor workmanship, and zero accountability if things go wrong. And when the job is done incorrectly, you’ll either have to live with the consequences or pay more to fix it.
You May Be Legally Liable Without Proper Coverage
Virginia law requires contractors performing work over a certain dollar amount to carry appropriate licensing. More importantly, without the right roofing insurance in Roanoke, any accident that happens on your property — from a slip and fall to property damage — could land squarely on your shoulders.
The risk isn’t hypothetical. It happens more often than people think.
Understanding Roofing Regulations in Roanoke
What Is Required to Legally Operate as a Roofer?
In Virginia, roofing contractors must be licensed by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). This means they’ve passed competency exams, met financial and legal standards, and registered with the state.
There are three license classes:
- Class A: No monetary limit per project
- Class B: Projects up to $120,000
- Class C: Projects up to $10,000
Roofers must also be registered with the State Corporation Commission and, in most cases, carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. These licensing rules are there to protect homeowners — by ensuring the contractor knows what they’re doing and can cover any accidents or damages.
If a roofer doesn’t meet these standards, they’re not operating legally. And if something goes wrong, you may have little legal recourse.
What’s Included in Roofing Insurance Roanoke Contractors Should Carry?
General Liability Insurance
This protects your property. If a worker damages your gutters, siding, or landscaping — or worse, your neighbor’s property — the insurance covers it. Without it, you could be left footing the bill.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
This protects the workers. If a roofer falls off a ladder or gets injured while on your property, workers’ comp covers medical bills and lost wages. Without it, the injured worker could sue you as the homeowner, even if you didn’t do anything wrong.
Any contractor you hire should be willing — and able — to provide proof of these policies before any work begins.
How 220 Roofing & Restoration Exceeds Industry Standards
Fully Licensed and Insured — Always
We carry all required state licenses to legally operate as a roofing contractor on residential and commercial properties. Our team is also insured with both general liability and workers’ compensation policies that meet or exceed local requirements.
We’re happy to provide documentation at any time — and we encourage you to ask. A reputable company won’t hesitate to share that information.
Certified and Trained by Leading Manufacturers
In addition to meeting Roanoke roofing license requirements, we’re certified by major shingle manufacturers like Atlas and GAF. That means our installations meet strict quality control standards — and qualify for extended warranties that many non-certified contractors simply can’t offer.
It also means we receive regular training on new products, installation methods, and safety protocols — which translates to a better product and experience for you.
How to Spot a Red Flag: What to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer
1. Are You Licensed in the State of Virginia?
Don’t settle for a verbal “yes.” Ask for their license number and verify it on the Virginia DPOR website. This only takes a few minutes — and it could save you thousands in the long run.
2. Do You Carry General Liability and Workers’ Comp?
Again, don’t just take their word for it. Ask for current certificates of insurance. Make sure the policy hasn’t expired and that it covers roofing work specifically.
3. Will You Pull Permits If Required?
Any reputable roofer should handle local permits as needed. If they ask you to pull permits yourself, or suggest skipping the process altogether, consider it a major warning sign.
The 220 Roofing & Restoration Difference
We understand that hiring a contractor involves a high level of trust. That’s why we’re committed to operating with complete transparency — in our credentials, in our pricing, and in the quality of work we provide.
We don’t just meet roofing regulations in Roanoke — we go a step beyond. Our 15-year workmanship warranty and 30-year shingle warranty mean we’ll be around to stand behind the job long after the last nail goes in. And we only use licensed, trained, and insured crews — because that’s what our clients deserve.
When you work with us, you’re not just getting a roof — you’re getting the peace of mind that comes from doing things the right way, every time.
Ready to Work with Licensed and Insured Roofing Professionals?
If you’re planning a roof replacement or repair, don’t leave it to chance. Make sure the team you hire is fully qualified and accountable. At 220 Roofing & Restoration, we’re proud to be among the licensed roofers Roanoke homeowners trust — and we’d be happy to show you exactly why.
Call us today or email [email protected] to schedule a free consultation. We’ll walk you through the process, provide proof of licensing and insurance, and help you protect your home — starting from the top.
