Hiring a roofing contractor is a major decision. Your roof protects your home, your family, and your investment—so it’s critical to work with someone who’s qualified, trustworthy, and operating legally. That leads many homeowners to ask: Do roofers in Grand Rapids need to be licensed and insured? The answer is yes, and skipping this step can create serious risks.
In this blog, we’ll break down why licensure and insurance matter, what Michigan law requires for roofing contractors, how to verify credentials, and what red flags to watch for. If you’re planning a roof repair or roof replacement in the Grand Rapids area, this guide will help you make a smart, safe hiring decision.
Why Licensing and Insurance Matter in Roofing
Roofing is one of the most high-risk trades in construction. Working at heights, using heavy equipment, and handling structural components all come with significant safety and liability concerns. That’s why roofers in Grand Rapids must be licensed and insured—not just for their own protection, but for yours.
Here’s what proper licensing and insurance offer:
- Accountability: A licensed contractor has passed state requirements, which often include exams, background checks, and proof of experience.
- Legal Protection: If something goes wrong, you have legal options with a licensed business.
- Worker Coverage: Insurance protects you from liability if a roofer is injured on your property.
- Property Protection: Insurance also covers accidental damage to your home or belongings during the project.
Without these protections, you could be left footing the bill for injuries or unfinished work.
Do Roofers in Grand Rapids Need to Be Licensed?
Yes—roofing contractors in Grand Rapids and throughout Michigan are required to be licensed if they work on projects valued at $600 or more. Roofing falls under the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), which oversees residential builders and maintenance and alteration contractors.
In fact, under Michigan’s Occupational Code, roofing is classified as a specialty trade. That means a contractor must hold either:
- A Residential Builder License (which covers full construction and remodeling), or
- A Maintenance & Alteration License with a Roofing Classification (specifically for roofing work)
Contractors must also renew their license periodically and may be required to complete continuing education to stay up to date on code changes and best practices.
Insurance Requirements for Roofers in Michigan
While Michigan law does not currently mandate contractors to carry insurance by default, reputable roofing companies in Grand Rapids will always be insured. The key types of insurance to look for are:
1. General Liability Insurance
Covers property damage and third-party injuries. For example, if a ladder falls and breaks a window, or if roofing materials damage your siding.
2. Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Covers medical bills and lost wages if a worker is injured on your property. Without it, you could be held liable—even if the accident wasn’t your fault.
Some local municipalities or commercial projects may require proof of insurance to issue permits or approve inspections.
To verify coverage, ask your contractor for a certificate of insurance (COI) and make sure it’s up to date and lists the proper coverage limits.
Why This Matters in Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids has seen rapid development and roofing demand in recent years—especially with seasonal storms and aging homes across neighborhoods like Eastown, Alger Heights, and Forest Hills. That growth attracts skilled tradespeople—but also out-of-town contractors, door-to-door sales teams, and uninsured “storm chasers” who may not meet local standards.
By working with licensed and insured roofers in Grand Rapids, you protect yourself from:
- Incomplete or faulty installations
- Unsafe work environments
- Disputes over cost or damage
- Lack of warranty or legal recourse
- Delays due to failed inspections or permit issues
Hiring a contractor without proper credentials might save a few dollars upfront—but could cost thousands in repairs, code violations, or legal trouble down the line.
What to Look for Before Hiring a Roofer
To protect your home and investment, always ask these questions before signing a contract:
1. Are you licensed in the state of Michigan?
Check that they hold either a Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration license with a roofing classification.
2. Do you carry liability and workers’ comp insurance?
Request a copy of their COI and confirm it’s current.
3. Are permits required for my job?
In most cases, yes. A licensed roofer will pull the appropriate permits and coordinate with local inspectors.
4. Do you offer warranties?
A legitimate roofer should provide both a manufacturer warranty on materials and a workmanship warranty on labor.
5. Can I see references or local projects?
Reputable roofers will have local reviews, before/after photos, or addresses of completed jobs.
Why Big Rapids Roofing is the Safe Choice in Grand Rapids
At Big Rapids Roofing, we believe trust is earned—especially in an industry where mistakes can be costly. That’s why we go above and beyond state requirements to deliver reliable, high-quality roofing backed by proper credentials.
Fully Licensed and Certified
We are fully licensed with the State of Michigan and meet all local building code requirements for Grand Rapids roofing projects.
Fully Insured for Your Protection
We carry comprehensive liability and workers’ compensation insurance for all our crews and projects—no exceptions.
GAF Master Elite® Certified
Only 2% of contractors nationwide earn GAF Master Elite® certification. This designation means we’ve met GAF’s rigorous standards for quality, training, and customer service—allowing us to provide industry-leading warranties on their trusted roofing systems.
We Handle Permits and Inspections
You don’t have to worry about the paperwork or code compliance. We manage the entire process, from pulling permits to scheduling final inspections.
Transparent and Local
We’re based in West Michigan and serve the Grand Rapids area with pride. Our team provides clear estimates, honest communication, and dependable follow-through—every time.
What Can Go Wrong Without Licensing or Insurance?
Homeowners are often surprised to learn that hiring an unlicensed roofer could result in:
- Voided homeowner’s insurance claims if damage results from faulty installation
- Liability for medical bills if a worker is injured
- Fines or permit violations if work isn’t completed to code
- No legal support in the event of a dispute
Cutting corners to save a few bucks might feel smart at first—but the consequences are often more expensive and more stressful than hiring a properly licensed and insured roofer.
As a BBB-accredited contractor, we follow proven business practices and meet high standards for customer trust. The Better Business Bureau and Federal Trade Commission both recommend homeowners verify contractor credentials before beginning any home improvement work. Visit the FTC’s hiring a contractor page for tips on protecting your investment.
Protect Your Home with Certified Grand Rapids Roofers
Licensing and insurance aren’t just boxes to check—they’re your safety net. Roofing is one of the most important investments you’ll make as a homeowner, and working with the right contractor can mean the difference between peace of mind and major regrets.
Big Rapids Roofing is proud to be a licensed, insured, and trusted name in Grand Rapids roofing. Whether you’re repairing storm damage, replacing a worn-out roof, or upgrading your home’s exterior, we’re here to help with expert service and proven results.
Want to make sure your next roofing project is protected from start to finish? Get a free estimate now and let our certified team show you the difference a licensed and insured roofer can make.
