How to Find a Licensed Roofer (by Country)

Rules for who may work on a roof differ greatly around the world. In some places roofing contractors need a government licence; in others there is no licence at all and homeowners rely on trade association membership, voluntary schemes and references. This guide summarises the main systems and the public bodies where credentials can be checked. Rules change, so always confirm with the local authority.

United States

Licensing is handled by states and sometimes by cities or counties, not nationally.

• Florida licenses roofing contractors through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). A certified roofing contractor may work anywhere in the state; a registered roofing contractor may work only in the local jurisdictions where they met competency requirements. Licences can be checked through the state's online licence search.
• Texas has no state roofing licence. The Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) offers a voluntary "RCAT Roofing License" that requires exams, insurance, a background check and continuing education.
• Other states range from full contractor licensing to simple registration. State contractor boards usually offer online lookups.

Canada

Contractor licensing is mostly municipal or provincial, while trade certification is provincial. In Ontario, Skilled Trades Ontario issues Certificates of Qualification and keeps a Public Register for compulsory trades. In British Columbia, the Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia (RCABC) lists member contractors eligible for its RoofStar Guarantee warranty program. The Canadian Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA) is the national trade body.

United Kingdom

There is no general legal licence for roofers. Common checks include:

• TrustMark, the Government Endorsed Quality Scheme, with a "Find a tradesperson" search;
• Competent Person Scheme registration, such as the NFRC scheme, which lets firms self-certify re-roofing under building regulations;
• membership of trade bodies such as the NFRC or CORC, and whether an insurance-backed warranty is offered.

New Zealand

Roofing on homes is restricted building work and must be done or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner holding a roofing licence, with classes for membrane, metal tile, profiled metal, shingles, torch-on and liquid roofing. The Roofing Association of New Zealand (RANZ) lists vetted members.

Australia

Licensing is set by each state and territory. Depending on the state, roofing, roof tiling or roof plumbing may need a licence, and thresholds based on the value of work often apply. Check with the state building, plumbing or fair trading regulator. Master Builders associations and specialist roofing associations provide member directories.

Germany

Roofing (Dachdecker) is a regulated craft. Running a roofing business traditionally requires a master craftsman qualification or equivalent and registration with the local chamber of crafts. Local roofing guilds belong to the national ZVDH.

General checks anywhere

• Ask for licence or registration numbers and verify them directly with the issuing body.
• Confirm liability and workers' insurance.
• Get written, itemised quotes and ask who will do the work.
• Ask what warranty covers workmanship and materials, and in writing.
• Be cautious with door-to-door offers after storms.