Colorado Roofing License: Everything You Need to Know

One of the most common questions we get from Colorado home and building owners is, “Does my roofing contractor need a Colorado roofing license?”

The answer may surprise you. Read on for the full answer and the difference between permits and licenses in Colorado. 

There is no statewide roofing license or registration requirement within the state of Colorado for roofing contractors. Roofing contractors are categorized as general contractors, and a Colorado state license is not required for them.

However, roofing contractors installing or repairing a roof MUST be licensed (common in larger cities) and/or pull a roofing permit (permits without licenses are more common in rural areas) with each Colorado local city or county jurisdiction where the work is to be performed. As a home or building owner, this is what you’ll want to ensure. ALL projects, no matter the size of the municipality, do require that a permit is pulled before work begins.

At the Colorado Roofing Association, our aim is to enable home and building owners to make informed decisions when it comes to their roofing system. Below we’ll address a few other related questions and provide you with the information you need to find a quality roofing contractor.

What is the Benefit of a Licensed Roofing Contractor?

There are numerous benefits to choosing a licensed roofing contractor. Licensed roofers have been screened and approved by the relevant authority and meet certain standards of expertise and knowledge. They will also be familiar with local building codes, as well as safety regulations, which helps ensure that any work they perform is up to standard and safe.

A licensed contractor is also more likely to offer better warranties or guarantees on their work. Since reputable licensed contractors strive to preserve their reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer service, they are likely to go out of their way to make sure the job gets done correctly the first time around. This means you can rest assured that your roof will stand up against whatever weather conditions it encounters.

Should I Ask My Contractor for a License Number?

A reputable roofing contractor will offer this information up front. If they don’t, Ask the contractor for a copy of his license and make sure a permit is pulled before work begins.

Once your contractor gives you a license number, you should confirm with your city or county’s building department where the home or building resides that the license number was issued by them and is current. Verifying this information with your city or county will also allow you to see if there are any complaints on file.

How do I Verify My Contractor’s Roofing License?

Each city in our county has their own process for this. Some cities have a tool you can use to search your contractor by name or business name, but most often your best bet will be to call your city or county’s building department. Visit your city or county’s building department website for more information on how to verify your contractor's license.

Are CRA Contractor Members Licensed in Colorado?

Colorado Roofing Association contractor members, upon joining the association, fulfill the following eligibility requirements:

• A roofing contractor business license showing that the company has been in operation for a minimum of two years, issued by a Colorado municipality or jurisdiction that requires a test for licensing; or roofing contractor business licenses showing that the company has been in business for at least two years issued by two Colorado municipalities that do not require a test for licensing.
• Documentation of current Colorado Workers Compensation Coverage reflecting roofing or sheet metal classifications.
• A certificate of insurance showing general liability protection of at least $500,000.00.
• Evidence of passing a nationally recognized examination that addresses roofing work on residential and/or commercial property.
• They sign and abide by the CRA Code of Ethics.

The CRA Code of Ethics is an exhaustive list of moral and ethical attributes and professional aspirations. Upon signing this document, Colorado roofing contractors agree to the fair, honest, and equitable treatment of their environment, their team, and their customers. Additionally, signing this document demonstrates the contractors desire to uphold the reputation of both their company and the Colorado roofing industry as a whole.

How Can I Find a Reputable Roofing Contractor?

That’s easy. With our contractor search tool, you can find a reputable and local roofing contractor quickly and easily. CRA contractor members fulfill all of the requirements listed above. The CRA is not responsible for the work these members provide, nor do we endorse any single member contractor. However, we can guarantee that this tool is your best bet for finding a licensed roofing contractor you can trust. Start your search today!