Why Verification Matters

Ever hired someone who swore up and down they were licensed, only to find out later they weren’t? Yeah, that’s the kind of nightmare no homeowner wants to deal with. When it comes to roofing, verifying a contractor’s credentials isn’t just paperwork — it’s protection. Protection for your wallet, your home, and your peace of mind.

Roofing isn’t something you can just redo next weekend. Once it’s installed wrong, you could be staring at leaks, rot, and thousands in repairs. Unfortunately, there are plenty of so-called “pros” out there who talk a good game but lack proper credentials. Some skip out mid-job. Others use low-grade materials or ignore building codes altogether. And when something goes wrong? They vanish.

That’s why verifying your roofer’s credentials is a must before signing anything. It’s not about being skeptical — it’s about being smart. Licensed and insured contractors follow safety standards, stay compliant with state laws, and stand behind their work. In this guide, we’ll walk you step by step through how to check a roofer’s credentials in your area so you can hire confidently, knowing your home is in capable hands.

Step 1: Check for State and Local Licensing

Let’s start with the big one — the license. A roofing license is the backbone of any legitimate contractor’s credibility. It’s what separates trained professionals from fly-by-night operators. Most states, including Florida, require contractors to hold an active license before performing roofing work.

In Florida, for example, you can look up a contractor’s license on the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website. It’s free, quick, and tells you if that license is current, expired, or suspended. Always ask your roofer for their license number and verify it yourself online — don’t just take their word for it.

Here’s what to watch out for:

• Missing license numbers on business cards or contracts.
• Excuses like “I’m working under someone else’s license.”
• Delays in providing proof of licensing.

Each county may also have local registration requirements. In areas like Palm Beach County or Indian River, contractors often need both state and county-level authorization. That extra step ensures they’re qualified to handle local building codes and weather conditions — something out-of-state roofers might miss.

Step 2: Confirm Insurance Coverage

Insurance is your safety net. It protects everyone if something goes wrong. Yet, you’d be shocked how many homeowners skip verifying it. A professional roofing company should carry two key types of insurance: general liability and workers’ compensation.

Liability insurance covers property damage. Say a ladder crashes through your window or materials get dropped — you won’t be the one paying for repairs. Workers’ compensation, on the other hand, covers employees in case of injury on your property. Without it, you could be held responsible.

So here’s what to do:

1. Ask for a Certificate of Insurance.
2. Check that it includes the correct company name and address.
3. Call the insurance provider listed to confirm it’s valid and up to date.

Be cautious of expired documents or mismatched details — those are huge red flags.

Step 3: Verify Certifications and Manufacturer Partnerships

Now, let’s talk about certifications — the mark of a contractor’s dedication to excellence. These are not just logos on a brochure. Manufacturer certifications like Drexel Metals Certified Installer or TAMKO Titan Pro Installer represent rigorous training, adherence to strict installation standards, and verified product knowledge.

A certified roofer has undergone manufacturer-led education and testing. That means they know how to install materials to spec, maintain warranty requirements, and handle custom fabrication with precision. Some certifications even allow contractors to offer extended warranties that non-certified installers can’t.

If a roofer claims to be certified, don’t stop at the claim — verify it. You can visit the manufacturer’s website and search for the contractor’s name. Both Drexel Metals and TAMKO, for example, have public directories of verified installers.

Rhino Roofs holds both Drexel Metals and TAMKO Titan Pro certifications. We earned those through years of consistent quality and continuing education. It’s not just a badge — it’s proof that our crews are trained, tested, and trusted by two of the most respected names in the roofing industry.

Step 4: Check Business Reputation and Experience

You can tell a lot about a roofer by their reputation. A business that’s been around for years — and still earning five-star reviews — is usually one that stands by its work. In this step, dig a little deeper into their background.

Start by checking official business registration sites. It’ll show you how long the business has been active, who owns it, and whether it’s in good standing. Then, read reviews on Google, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and social media.

Speaking of which — Rhino Roofs is BBB A+ Accredited, a recognition that reflects our commitment to integrity, honesty, and customer satisfaction. That accreditation isn’t handed out easily. It’s earned through years of good standing, zero unresolved complaints, and verified performance.

Don’t stop there — ask for local references. A reputable contractor will gladly share three or more recent clients from your area. Call them. Ask how the crew performed, if the timeline was followed, and whether they’d hire them again.

In roofing, trust is everything. Experience proves stability, but reputation proves reliability.

Step 5: Look for Membership in Professional Associations

Roofing isn’t just a trade — it’s a profession. And professional roofers stay active in organizations that hold them accountable. Membership in associations like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association, or local chambers of commerce shows commitment to continuous improvement and ethical standards.

Association members are expected to stay updated on codes, safety regulations, and product innovations. They network with peers, share best practices, and adhere to codes of conduct that elevate industry standards.

Want to verify a membership? Easy. Visit the organization’s official website, search their directory, or call the association directly.

Step 6: Review Permits and Contracts

Before any work begins, make sure your roofer pulls the necessary permits. It’s a legal requirement in most cities and counties, and it ensures your roof is inspected and approved by building officials. If a contractor tells you to pull the permits yourself, that’s a red flag — it usually means they’re unlicensed or cutting corners.

Your contract should be just as clear as your roofline. Review it carefully. It should include:

• Contractor’s license number.
• Proof of insurance.
• Scope of work and materials used.
• Payment schedule.
• Warranty terms.

Here’s a quick tip: if a bid seems suspiciously low compared to others, it’s probably too good to be true. Cheap materials, rushed labor, or skipped permits can cost you more later.

Step 7: Verify Online Presence and Transparency

In today’s world, a roofing company without an online presence is like a roofer without a ladder — it doesn’t make sense. Check for a professional website that lists contact information, services, and photos of actual projects (not stock images). A solid website shows a company’s stability and investment in transparency.

Next, check for consistency across listings — Google Maps, Yelp, Facebook, and business directories. The address, phone number, and branding should all match. Mismatched details can indicate a scam or a company trying to hide past complaints.

Step 8: Ask Questions Before Hiring

Here’s where confidence meets caution. Don’t hesitate to ask questions — a true professional welcomes them. Use these to guide your conversation:

1. Can I see proof of your license and insurance?
2. How long have you been working in this area?
3. Who will be supervising my project?
4. Can you provide recent local references?

If a contractor gets defensive or vague, walk away. A good roofer explains things clearly and encourages you to verify every detail. Trust your gut — it’s usually right.

Protect Your Home, Verify Before You Hire

Choosing a roofer isn’t about who’s cheapest or closest — it’s about who’s credible, accountable, and proven. A roof is a long-term investment. Verifying your contractor’s credentials protects that investment from shortcuts and surprises.

We’ve seen too many homeowners burned by unlicensed crews or uninsured workers. It’s why we go above and beyond to stay transparent, certified, and insured — so you don’t have to wonder if you made the right call.

If you’re ready to work with a team that’s fully licensed, insured, BBB Accredited, and certified by Drexel Metals and TAMKO Titan Pro, contact us today. Let’s build something that lasts — simple, strong, and built to protect what matters most.

Schedule your free inspection and see why families across Florida’s Treasure Coast and Palm Beach County trust us to get it done right.