In many states, you can look up a roofer's license in a state database. Texas doesn't work that way. There's no statewide license for roofing contractors, so the state can't tell you whether a roofer is qualified. That puts the checking on you. It isn't hard, and it's worth the half hour.
What Texas Does and Doesn't Require
- No state roofing license. The state licensing agency doesn't regulate roofers.
- Some cities require registration. A few Texas cities require roofers to register and show proof of insurance before they pull permits. Check with your city.
- A voluntary license exists. The Roofing Contractors Association of Texas runs a voluntary licensing program with experience, insurance and exam requirements. Some roofers hold it; many good roofers don't.
- Manufacturer programs. Shingle and metal manufacturers certify installers, which can affect the warranty you can get.
What to Ask For
| Ask for | Why |
|---|---|
| Certificate of general liability insurance, sent by the insurer | Protects you if something is damaged during the job |
| Proof of workers' compensation or other injury coverage | Roofing is dangerous; know how injuries are handled |
| A local address | A place you can find, not just a phone number and a truck |
| Recent local jobs | Roofs you can drive past, and owners you can ask |
| A written contract | Scope, materials, price, payment schedule, warranties |
| Permit details | Whether one is needed and who pulls it |
Want to put these questions to a roofer?
Ask a Walker County roofer: (936) 249-1840.
Call (936) 249-1840What the Contract Should Say
- the company's legal name, address and phone
- the full scope: tear-off, decking allowance, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, the exact shingle or metal product and color
- the total price and when each payment is due
- start and completion terms, including weather delays
- cleanup and nail sweep
- the manufacturer's warranty and the roofer's own workmanship warranty, in writing
- what happens if hidden damage is found
Red Flags
- pressure to sign the same day, especially after a storm
- a large cash deposit before any materials arrive
- a promise that "insurance will pay for everything"
- a contract that hands your insurance claim or payment to the roofer without clear terms
- no physical address, or a company name that changes
- an out-of-town crew with no local references, right after hail
After a Hailstorm
Big hailstorms bring roofers from all over, some knocking door to door. Many are legitimate; some aren't. Take a card, check them the same way you'd check anyone else, and get a second opinion from a roofer you called yourself. A good roofer will give you time to decide.
If Something Goes Wrong
Start with the roofer, in writing. If an insurance claim is involved, your insurer and the Texas Department of Insurance can help with the insurance side. The Texas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division takes complaints about businesses.
Questions
Does Texas license roofers?
No. There's no state roofing license. Some cities require registration, and a voluntary industry license exists.
Is a voluntary license worth looking for?
It's a good sign, not a requirement. Insurance, local history and a solid contract matter more.
Should I pay up front?
Avoid paying most of the price before work starts. A deposit tied to material delivery and the balance on completion is common.
Around Huntsville
These checks matter everywhere, but especially after storms in fast-growing areas like Conroe and older towns like Crockett. How roofers work is covered on roofers in Huntsville.
Hail and Wind Claims on a Texas Roof
Photos, deductibles and the adjuster's visit.
Rental House Roofs Near Campus: A Landlord's Guide
Timing roof work around leases and tenants.