How to Choose a Roofing Contractor in Florida

Why Contractor Selection Matters More in Florida

Florida's roofing market is large, competitive, and unfortunately home to a significant number of unlicensed or under-qualified contractors. After major storms, storm chasers — contractors from out of state who follow hurricane damage — flood the market and often disappear before warranty issues arise.

The consequences of hiring the wrong contractor can be severe: improper installation that voids manufacturer warranties, work that does not meet Florida building codes, and no recourse when problems arise because the contractor has moved on.

License Verification

Florida requires roofing contractors to hold a state license. There are two relevant license types: a Roofing Contractor license (CCC) for roofing work and a General Contractor license (CGC) for broader construction work.

You can verify any Florida contractor's license at the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website at myfloridalicense.com. Verify that the license is active, not expired or suspended, and that the name on the license matches the company you are hiring.

Alron Construction holds both a Roofing Contractor license (CCC1328819) and a General Contractor license (CGC1515789), both active and in good standing.

Red Flags to Watch For

Demanding full payment upfront is a major red flag. Legitimate contractors typically require a deposit of 10 to 30 percent with the balance due upon completion.

Offering to waive your insurance deductible is illegal in Florida. Any contractor who makes this offer is engaging in insurance fraud.

Pressure to sign immediately or claiming the offer expires today is a sales tactic, not a legitimate business practice. Take time to verify credentials and get multiple estimates.

No physical address or only a P.O. box makes it difficult to find the contractor if problems arise. Verify that the contractor has a legitimate local business presence.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Ask for the contractor's license number and verify it yourself. Ask whether they will pull a permit for the work — legitimate contractors always pull permits. Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers compensation coverage.

Ask for references from recent local projects and follow up with those references. Ask about the warranty on both materials and labor, and get the warranty terms in writing.

Ask who will actually be doing the work — the contractor or subcontractors. If subcontractors are used, verify that they are also licensed and insured.