Licensing, insurance, and permits for roofing

When looking for a roofing company in the Lansing area, you always need to make sure of two things: are they licensed and insured? There are a lot of companies that try to operate their roofing business without having either, and that can mean trouble.

Why use a licensed roofer?

If a roofing company in Lansing is not licensed, it means less protection for the homeowner. Licensed contractors are subject to…

• Background checks.
• A strict minimum of experience.
• Passing a thorough exam.
• They have to back their work.
• Staying up-to-date on changes in building codes.
• They can file for permits.

Why use an insured roofer?

If you use an uninsured roofing company in the Lansing area, you are just asking for trouble. You always want to make sure that they have liability AND workers’ compensation. Insurance for a roofing company can cover…

• Damage done to the home during the project.
• Worker injuries that occur on the project.

Most homeowners don’t realize that if they use a contractor that is uninsured, they are taking on the liability of the work being done. If a storm comes and the roof is uncovered and it damages your home? If a worker falls off the roof and injures himself during your installation? If someone installs the roof incorrectly and damages your home? All of these fall under the responsibility of the homeowner unless the company is fully licensed and insured.

Why pull a roofing permit?

Most townships in the Lansing area require a permit to be pulled for replacing your roof. This is to ensure that they know who is doing the roof and that it is done according to code requirements. There are a lot of unlicensed contractors who will ask the homeowner to pull the permit for the project. Don’t fall for it! If the homeowner pulls the permit, they are considered the general contractor on the job and are responsible for it being done correctly. If a roofing contractor is asking you to pull the permit, they are trying to avoid licensing requirements and responsibility for your project.

Note: Make sure to get copies of all insurance, license, and permit documents and find out what they cover from the providers.