Hiring a Roofer in Wisconsin: What to Check
Wisconsin doesn't have a separate state roofing licence, but it does have rules about who can take out building permits for homes.
Request a rooferDwelling contractor certification
Under Wisconsin rules, no one may obtain a building permit for a one- or two-family home unless they hold Dwelling Contractor certification or employ someone who does. Certification requires a qualifier who has completed approved education.
Does my job need a permit?
That's set locally. Check with your city or village building department, and ask the roofer who will pull the permit if one is needed.
Insurance
Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation. It protects you if someone is hurt or property is damaged.
Written quotes
A good quote lists the shingle brand and line, ice-and-water membrane, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, decking repairs and clean-up.
Warranties
Ask about both the manufacturer's warranty and the roofer's workmanship warranty, and whether registration is required.
Red flags
Same-day pressure to sign, large cash deposits, no local address, or offers to waive your insurance deductible.
Questions to ask
How long have you worked in Dane County? Will you tear off the old roof? How do you handle winter work?
Get started
Send a request and a roofer will get in touch.
Checking credentials
Ask the roofer for their dwelling contractor credential number, and confirm the business name on the quote matches the one on their insurance certificate. Keep copies of both with your contract.
Payment and schedule
Agree in writing on the start date, how weather delays are handled and when payments are due. A modest deposit with the balance on completion is common; paying everything up front leaves you with little leverage if something goes wrong.
After the job
Walk the property with the crew, check that nails have been cleaned up and ask for the warranty paperwork and any permit sign-off before making the final payment.
More roofing guides
Roof problem in Madison or Dane County?
Send a request and a roofer will get in touch. Requests answered 7 days a week.
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