When your commercial or residential roof needs attention, the decision to hire a professional shouldn’t be taken lightly. In Durham, NC, where weather conditions can be harsh and building codes are strictly enforced, hiring a licensed roofer is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity. A licensed contractor offers legal protection, proven qualifications, and accountability that unlicensed workers simply cannot provide.
This blog explains why working with licensed roofers is crucial, how to verify credentials, and what risks you take when you cut corners by hiring someone unlicensed.
What Does It Mean to Be a Licensed Roofer?
A licensed roofer is a professional who has met state and local requirements for training, experience, insurance, and regulatory compliance. In North Carolina, roofing contractors must obtain a license from the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors if the project exceeds $40,000.
Licensing ensures that the roofer:
- Has passed examinations demonstrating technical and safety knowledge
- Complies with local building codes and standards
- Carries the appropriate insurance coverage
- Operates legally within the jurisdiction
Unlicensed roofers bypass these requirements, putting your investment—and possibly your liability—at serious risk.
Why Licensing Matters for Your Roof
1. Protection Against Liability
Licensed roofers carry workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. If someone is injured on your property or if accidental damage occurs, you’re covered. With an unlicensed roofer, you could be held financially responsible for injuries or property damage.
2. Code Compliance
Licensed contractors are required to understand and comply with North Carolina’s building codes. Improper installations not only fail inspections but may also void manufacturer warranties and insurance coverage.
Working with a licensed roofer like Rhino Roofing ensures your roof meets all local and state code requirements, helping you avoid costly corrections later.
3. Quality Assurance
Roofing licenses aren’t handed out casually—they’re earned through verified experience and technical competence. Licensed roofers must meet strict performance standards and stay updated on materials, techniques, and safety protocols.
Rhino Roofing’s licensed team in Durham, NC, consistently delivers work that meets or exceeds industry standards, supported by decades of experience and formal training.
4. Access to Extended Warranties
Top roofing manufacturers like CertainTeed, Owens Corning, and GAF offer extended warranties—but only when their materials are installed by certified, licensed contractors. These warranties cover not just materials, but also labor and performance over time.
Hiring a licensed roofer ensures you’re eligible for these manufacturer-backed protections.
5. Accountability and Dispute Resolution
Licensed contractors are subject to state regulation. If there’s a dispute or a project doesn’t meet contractual obligations, you have a formal channel for recourse. With unlicensed contractors, your options are limited—and legal action is often more difficult and expensive.
How to Verify a Roofer’s License
Before hiring a contractor:
- Ask for their license number and verify it through the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors.
- Request proof of insurance and bonding.
- Read reviews and check references from other local property owners.
- Look for certifications from major manufacturers.
Rhino Roofing openly shares all license and insurance documentation and encourages prospective clients to check their reputation and certifications.
Risks of Hiring an Unlicensed Roofer
It may be tempting to save money with a cheaper, unlicensed contractor—but the risks are rarely worth it:
- Poor workmanship and material shortcuts
- No legal or financial protection
- Voided warranties
- Failed inspections and code violations
- Increased long-term costs due to faulty installations
Trust Your Roof to Licensed Professionals
Your roof is too important to trust to chance. Whether you’re installing a new system or repairing storm damage, always work with licensed experts who stand behind their work.
Read also our blog: How to Protect Your Home From Storm Damage.
