When it comes to fixing or replacing your roof, choosing a reliable contractor is one of the most important decisions you can make as a Ridgewood homeowner. One thing remains true no matter where your home’s locaeted in Ridgewood: your roof protects everything beneath it. And with that level of responsibility, you want a contractor you can trust.
But how can you be sure you’re hiring someone qualified? That’s where licensing and insurance come into play. In this blog, we’ll answer the essential question: Do roofers in Ridgewood need to be licensed and insured? We’ll also explain how these credentials protect you, the homeowner, and why you should never hire a contractor without them.
Understanding Roofing Regulations in Ridgewood
Like most towns in New Jersey, Ridgewood follows statewide regulations when it comes to roofing. The state doesn’t issue a roofing-specific license, but it does require all residential roofing contractors to be registered with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs as a Home Improvement Contractor.
This registration is mandatory under New Jersey’s Contractor Registration Act, which sets minimum standards for anyone involved in residential construction, remodeling, or home improvements, including roofing.
So, while there’s no stand-alone “Ridgewood roofing license,” licensed roofers in Ridgewood must meet state requirements to legally offer roofing services.
What Are the Licensing Requirements?
To operate legally, licensed roofers in Ridgewood must:
- Register as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs
- Provide proof of at least $500,000 in general liability insurance
- Submit a completed application with a $110 registration fee
- List all business owners with 10% or more ownership
- Disclose any prior criminal convictions of owners
For roofers who offer financing, a second license, Home Repair Contractor license, must be obtained from the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. And any salesperson working under that contractor must have a Home Repair Salesperson license.
These licenses are not optional. Contractors without them are breaking the law, and potentially putting your home at risk.
Why Licensing Matters to Homeowners
Hiring licensed roofers in Ridgewood ensures that the company you’re trusting with your home has met the state’s minimum standards for doing business. It also holds them accountable.
Here’s why that matters:
- Legal Protection: If something goes wrong, you have recourse through the state.
- Accountability: Licensed contractors must follow state regulations, or they risk losing their license.
- Credibility: Licensing is a sign that the contractor is serious about their trade and their reputation.
Before hiring anyone for your project, verify that they’re licensed. You can check contractor registration at the NJ Consumer Affairs website. It’s a quick, simple step that can save you from headaches later on.
The Importance of Roofing Insurance in Ridgewood
In addition to licensing, you should always hire insured roofers in Ridgewood. There are two key types of insurance every reputable roofer should carry.
General Liability Insurance
This protects your property if the roofer causes damage during the job. For example, if they drop tools and break a window, their insurance should cover the repairs.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
This protects you if a worker is injured while on your property. Without it, you could be liable for medical bills and legal costs, especially during physically demanding work like roofing.
Roofing insurance in Ridgewood isn’t just a formality; it’s a must. Ask for proof of insurance before signing any contract, and don’t be afraid to call the insurer to verify the policy is active.
What Can Go Wrong Without Licensed and Insured Roofers?
Here’s what can happen when you hire an unlicensed or uninsured contractor:
- Faulty installation that voids your material warranties
- Injury lawsuits if someone gets hurt on your property
- Code violations that force you to redo the work
- No legal recourse if the contractor disappears mid-project
- Denial of insurance claims if your provider finds out the contractor was unlicensed
It’s simply not worth the risk. Hiring insured roofers in Ridgewood who follow local and state roofing regulations is the best way to protect your investment and your peace of mind.
Questions You Need to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer in Ridgewood
To help you make the best decision, here are a few questions to ask any roofer before you sign a contract:
- Are you licensed and registered in the state of New Jersey?
- Can you provide proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance?
- How long have you been working in Ridgewood or the Bergen County area?
- Do you provide a written estimate and contract?
- What kind of warranties do you offer?
Any reliable roofer will be happy to answer these questions. If a contractor is hesitant or avoids giving a straight answer, consider it a red flag.
Why Ridgewood Homeowners Trust Roof Shark
At Roof Shark, we’re proud to be fully licensed and insured, offering top-tier roof replacement and roof repair services throughout Ridgewood. We don’t cut corners, because we know our clients expect the best. We bring skill, professionalism, and care to every job.
Here’s why local homeowners choose us:
- We’re registered with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs
- We carry full insurance, including general liability and workers’ comp
- We offer detailed estimates, clean job sites, and quality work
- We treat your home like our own
- Roof Shark is more than a contractor; we’re your trusted roofing partner.
Protect Your Home with Licensed and Insured Roofers in Ridgewood
Cutting corners can cost you thousands, or worse. Make the smart choice and work with professionals who meet every licensing and insurance requirement. The safety of your home and family depends on it.
Schedule your free estimate today with Ridgewood’s licensed and insured roofing experts at Roof Shark. Let us protect your home the right way, by doing the job right the first time.
