Why “Licensed and Insured Contractors” Matter More Than You Think
What You’ll Learn
What documentation should I ask my contractor for?
Ask your contractor for a physical Certificate of Insurance to ensure they are properly covered, and confirm that they carry Workers’ Compensation so you aren’t held liable for on-site injuries.
You can also verify if they are registered with the PA Attorney General’s Office under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA).
In This Blog:
Your roofer simply nodded when you asked about insurance.
You waved it off and didn’t think about it again.
Like many homeowners, you may assume that every contractor offering roofing services already meets those requirements.
Unfortunately, that assumption can lead to major problems.
At GP Martini Roofing, we speak with homeowners who’ve dealt with poor workmanship, unexpected expenses, and even legal issues because they hired a contractor who wasn’t fully licensed or insured.
These situations are preventable.
Choosing a licensed and insured contractor isn’t just a box to check—it’s one of the most important decisions you can make as a homeowner.
Why Licensing and Insurance Matter
In this video, Gary Martini, founder of GP Martini Roofing, explains why “licensed and insured” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a promise of professionalism, accountability, and homeowner protection.
Gary breaks down what homeowners should look for before hiring a roofer and shares real-world examples of what happens when those protections aren’t in place.
Your roof protects everything beneath it. When installed correctly, it shields your home from moisture, wind, pests, and structural damage.
When installed poorly, it becomes a source of expensive problems. Unlicensed or underqualified roofers often cut corners, ignore local codes, and use improper installation techniques.
Their work leads to:
- Roof leaks and interior water damage
- Mold growth in ceilings and attics
- Structural damage to decking and framing
- Voided warranties from shingle manufacturers
- Shortened lifespan of the roof system
Choosing a licensed and insured contractor is the best way to prevent these outcomes. It ensures the work is performed legally, professionally, and according to industry standards.
What It Means to Be a Licensed Contractor in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, roofing contractors are required to register with the Attorney General’s Office under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA).
This law is designed to protect consumers from fraud and poor business practices.
Licensing or registration proves that the contractor is legally allowed to do business in the state and is accountable under Pennsylvania law.
Licensing and Registration Requirements Include:
- Business registration with the state
- Proof of liability insurance
- Disclosure of criminal background or prior bankruptcies
- A written contract that follows legal standards
Some local municipalities go further by requiring contractors to pass exams that test their knowledge of roofing techniques, safety protocols, and local building codes.
This matters because a licensed contractor operates within legal guidelines and professional standards. They are trackable, regulated, and accountable.
Unlicensed roofers, on the other hand, often operate without oversight and can disappear without finishing the job or fixing their mistakes.
The Role of Continuing Education and Manufacturer Certifications
A high-quality roofing contractor doesn’t stop learning once they receive their registration number.
Many invest in continuing education and earn certifications from top roofing manufacturers like GAF, CertainTeed, or Owens Corning.
These programs require contractors to complete training on specific installation techniques, product updates, and evolving safety regulations.
They also give homeowners added confidence that their roof will meet or exceed current standards and qualify for full manufacturer warranties.
The Insurance Coverage Every Roofing Contractor Should Carry
Roofing is one of the riskiest construction jobs. Working at heights, using heavy equipment, and dealing with unpredictable weather all introduce risk. If your contractor isn’t properly insured, you, as the homeowner, could be held financially responsible when something goes wrong.
Here are the three essential types of insurance a professional roofing contractor must carry:
1. At Least $1 Million in General Liability Insurance
This protects against damage to your home or property during the roofing project.
If a roofer breaks a window, drops equipment through a skylight, or causes water damage due to poor installation, general liability insurance covers the cost of repairs.
2. Workers’ Compensation Insurance
This covers injuries that workers suffer while on your property.
If a crew member falls off your roof and gets hurt, workers’ compensation covers their medical expenses and lost wages.
Without this coverage, the injured worker could file a claim against you, the homeowner.
3. Commercial Auto Insurance
This protects you if the contractor’s vehicles cause damage while on your property.
For example, if a truck loaded with shingles cracks your driveway or hits your garage, commercial auto insurance covers the repair costs.
How Insurance Protects You
Hiring a contractor without insurance exposes you to serious financial risks. If someone gets hurt or if your home is damaged, the burden can fall directly on you.
Your homeowner’s insurance might not cover contractor-related claims, and even if it does, your premiums could increase.
With a properly insured contractor, you are shielded from:
- Medical bills related to on-site injuries
- Lawsuits from injured workers
- Costs to repair property damage
- Rejected claims from your homeowner’s insurance company
Always ask for proof. A reputable contractor will provide a Certificate of Insurance upon request.
This document verifies active coverage, giving you peace of mind that you’re legally and financially protected.
How to Verify a Roofing Contractor’s License and Insurance
Don’t rely on verbal assurances. A professional contractor should provide all documentation without hesitation. Here’s what to request and review before signing any contract:
Ask for:
- A copy of their registration number with the Pennsylvania Attorney General
- A current Certificate of Insurance for both general liability and workers’ compensation
- Written proof of manufacturer certifications
- References from recent roofing projects
You can also search the Pennsylvania HICPA registry.
Protect Your Home with a Contractor You Can Trust
Hiring a licensed and insured contractor is not just a smart decision—it’s the safest one.
It protects your investment, your family, and your peace of mind. A roof should last for decades. If it’s built by someone unqualified or uninsured, it won’t.
At GP Martini Roofing, we are fully licensed and insured.
We bring decades of experience, ongoing training, and a commitment to doing the job right the first time.
We use premium materials, offer top-tier warranties, and treat every home as if it were our own.
Contact GP Martini today for a free estimate.
FAQs
How can I check if a roofing contractor is licensed in Pennsylvania?
You can verify a contractor’s registration by visiting the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s HICPA search tool. Ask the contractor for their registration number and confirm it online.
This tool will show you whether the contractor is registered, active, and compliant with state requirements under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act.
What happens if I hire an uninsured roofer and someone gets hurt?
If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor doesn’t carry workers’ compensation insurance, you could be held liable. That could mean paying medical bills, covering lost wages, or facing a lawsuit.
Hiring an insured contractor protects you from those financial and legal risks.
Does hiring a licensed roofer affect my roof warranty?
Yes. Most roofing material manufacturers require installation by certified or licensed contractors for the warranty to remain valid.
If an unlicensed contractor installs your roof incorrectly, the manufacturer can deny coverage, leaving you on the hook for repairs or replacement.
Always ask about certifications and warranties up front.
What documents should a roofing contractor provide before starting work?
Before any work begins, your contractor should provide proof of license or registration, certificate of insurance (liability and workers’ comp), a written estimate, and a contract that includes the scope of work, materials, payment schedule, and warranty information.
If they hesitate or refuse, that’s a red flag.
Is it more expensive to hire a licensed and insured contractor?
Not necessarily. While reputable contractors may charge more than unlicensed roofers, that cost reflects better materials, trained crews, proper insurance, and reliable workmanship.
Hiring a cut-rate contractor can lead to expensive repairs, legal problems, or even full roof replacement. The right contractor saves money in the long run.
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