Checking a Michigan Roofer's License
Michigan's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, LARA, licenses residential builders and maintenance and alteration contractors. Roofing is one of the maintenance and alteration trades.
Request a rooferLook it up
Search the contractor's name or license number on LARA's online license lookup before you sign anything.
Permits
Roof replacements usually need a local building permit. Ask who pulls it and when the inspection will happen.
Insurance
Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.
Written contract
It should list tear-off, deck repairs, underlayment, ice and water shield, ventilation, flashing, cleanup and warranty.
Warranties
There are two kinds: the manufacturer's on materials and the roofer's on workmanship. Ask about both.
Storm chasers
Be cautious of crews that appear after storms, ask for large deposits or push for a decision on the spot.
Keep records
Save the permit, contract, invoice and warranty papers together.
Get started
See our services and send a request.
Payment schedule
Agree on when payments are due. Avoid paying in full before the work is done.
Ask about the crew
Ask whether the licensed company's own crew will do the work or whether it will be subcontracted.
Questions worth asking
How long has the company worked in the Lansing area? Who will be on site each day? How do they protect gutters, siding and landscaping? What happens if they find rotten decking? Clear answers to these are a good sign.
Get it in writing
Any change to the scope, such as extra decking or new flashing, should be agreed in writing before the work is done, with the price stated.
After the job
Ask for photos of the deck before the new roof went on, and register the shingle warranty if the roofer doesn't do it for you.
More roofing guides
Roof trouble in Lansing?
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