What It Means to Be Licensed and Insured
Definitions of licensing, bonding, and insurance
In Michigan, a licensed roofing contractor has passed state exams, met experience requirements, and is approved by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Being bonded and insured means the contractor carries liability coverage for property damage and workers’ compensation in case of on-site injuries.
What homeowners should ask for
Always request a copy of the contractor’s license and current insurance certificates. Verify that coverage includes both general liability and workers’ comp, and that the license includes roofing classification.
Legal Requirements for Roofers in Michigan
State licensing laws and CCB registration
Michigan law requires all roofing contractors to hold a Residential Builder license or a Maintenance & Alteration license with a roofing designation. This ensures they understand state codes and building standards.
Permits and code compliance
Licensed contractors are authorized to pull permits on your behalf. Work completed without a permit may be considered illegal and could create problems when selling the home.
The Risks of Hiring Unlicensed or Uninsured Contractors
Legal Liability for Injuries or Property Damage
Hiring a contractor who lacks proper insurance opens you up to serious legal and financial consequences if something goes wrong on the job.
What Happens If a Worker Gets Hurt on Your Property?
If the contractor doesn’t carry workers’ compensation insurance, you may be responsible for:
- Medical bills for the injured worker
- Lost wages during their recovery
- Legal fees and court settlements if a lawsuit is filed
- Increased premiums or denial of coverage by your own homeowner’s insurance
Even a single injury can result in tens of thousands of dollars in liability for the homeowner.
Property Damage and No Accountability
Uninsured contractors also lack general liability insurance, which normally covers damage to your home or nearby property during the job.
Potential damage includes:
- Cracked driveways or broken landscaping from roofing equipment
- Water leaks due to improperly installed flashing or shingles
- Damage to siding, windows, or gutters during tear-off
- Neighboring property harm from falling debris
If the contractor isn’t insured, you foot the bill.
Voided Warranties and Permit Issues
Unlicensed contractors cannot legally pull permits or provide installation that meets manufacturer standards. This can cost you both in repairs and lost resale value.
Manufacturer Warranty Limitations
Most roofing material manufacturers—like CertainTeed—only honor warranties if:
- Products are installed by certified or credentialed contractors
- All components (underlayment, flashing, ventilation) are used as specified
- The job complies with local building code and permit requirements
Without these conditions met, your warranty may be void immediately, leaving you with no protection.
Unpermitted Work Could Hurt Future Home Sales
Municipalities in Michigan often require roofing permits for both full replacements and large repairs. Without proper permitting:
- Your homeowner’s insurance claim could be denied if issues arise
- You may be fined by local building authorities
- Future buyers or appraisers may lower your home’s value
- You could be forced to tear off and redo the work to meet code
Other Red Flags Common with Unlicensed Contractors
Beyond legality and liability, unlicensed roofers often display these warning signs:
- No written contract or vague job details
- No proof of prior work or verifiable references
- Use of leftover or off-brand materials
- Demand for large cash payments upfront
- Refusal to pull permits or provide insurance certificates
Hiring them may save money up front—but could cost you significantly more in repairs, legal issues, and lost peace of mind.
How Insurance Protects You as the Homeowner
General liability vs. workers’ comp coverage
General liability protects your property (siding, windows, landscaping) if damaged during installation. Workers’ compensation protects you from injury-related lawsuits by covering workers hurt on the job.
Who pays when something goes wrong?
If the contractor is insured, their policy pays. If they’re not, your homeowner’s insurance—or your personal finances—could be on the hook for damage or medical costs.
The Value of Working With Certified Contractors
Why manufacturer certifications like CertainTeed matter
Certified roofers meet rigorous training and quality requirements. This makes them eligible to offer extended product warranties and guarantees unavailable to uncertified roofers.
Better materials, better warranties, better protection
Certified contractors use top-tier materials and proven installation techniques. Homeowners benefit from added protection, fewer callbacks, and longer roof life.
How to Verify Roofing Credentials in Michigan
State license look-up resources
Use the LARA license lookup tool to confirm a contractor’s status. You can search by company name or license number and confirm that roofing is listed under their qualifications.
What to request in writing
Ask for proof of insurance, license number, expiration dates, and copies of manufacturer certifications. A reputable contractor will always provide documentation before work begins.
Why Horizon Roofing Is the Safe, Smart Choice
Our licensing, insurance, and certifications
Horizon Roofing & Construction is fully licensed, bonded, and insured in Michigan. We hold certifications from CertainTeed and adhere to industry best practices on every project.
How we protect your home and your investment
We handle permitting, ensure code compliance, and back our work with industry-leading warranties. Our evaluations are always honest, and our workmanship is guaranteed.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Take the Risk—Choose Right
Reinforce why credentials matter before the first nail is even hammered
Choosing a licensed and insured contractor protects your home, your finances, and your peace of mind. Don’t leave your investment to chance—work with a credentialed pro like Horizon Roofing & Construction.