When it comes to your home, your roof is your first line of defense—against hurricanes, heavy rain, scorching sun, and everything in between. But even the best materials won’t protect your home if they’re installed incorrectly. That’s why hiring the right roofing contractor is just as important as choosing the right shingles or tiles.

A great roof starts with the right team. The wrong contractor can leave you with shoddy workmanship, unexpected costs, or even a roof that doesn’t meet Florida’s strict building codes. To avoid expensive mistakes, here’s what you need to know when choosing a roofer in Florida.

1. Licensing & Insurance: Non-Negotiable

Not all roofing contractors are created equal. In Florida, licensing and insurance aren’t just nice to have—they’re required by law.

Licensed: A Florida roofing contractor must be licensed by the state. This ensures they’ve met training, testing, and experience requirements. You can verify a roofer’s license on the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) website.

Insured: Roofing is dangerous work. If a contractor isn’t properly insured, you could be held liable for any accidents on your property. Always ask for proof of both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance before signing a contract.

Red Flag: If a contractor asks you to pull the permit yourself, walk away. This is often a sign they aren’t licensed, and in Florida, it’s illegal for unlicensed contractors to perform roofing work.

2. Local Experience Matters

Florida isn’t like other states—our weather is unpredictable, and hurricane-resistant roofing is a must. That’s why it’s essential to hire a contractor who:

Understands Florida’s Building Codes – After devastating storms, the state has tightened roofing regulations to ensure homes can withstand extreme conditions. A local roofer will know these codes inside and out.

Uses Hurricane-Resistant Techniques – Florida contractors should use specialized fasteners, high-wind-rated materials, and reinforced underlayment to keep your roof secure.

Has a Strong Track Record in the Area – A roofer with years of experience in your region understands the specific challenges homes face, whether it’s coastal salt exposure, heavy rain, or intense sun damage.

Red Flag: Beware of storm chasers—out-of-state contractors who flood Florida after hurricanes. They often offer cheap repairs but disappear before warranty issues arise. Stick with established local companies.

3. Reviews, References, and Reputation

Would you hire a babysitter without checking their references? Of course not! The same goes for your roofing contractor.

Check Online Reviews: Look at Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). A reputable roofer will have consistently positive feedback from past customers.

Ask for References: A good contractor should provide at least three references from recent roofing projects. Call these homeowners and ask:

• Did the contractor finish on time and on budget?
• Was the communication clear and professional?
• Would you hire them again?

Check Their BBB Rating: The Better Business Bureau ranks businesses based on trustworthiness. A high rating means fewer complaints and a history of good service.

Red Flag: If a contractor has no online presence or refuses to give references, that’s a major warning sign.

4. Get Everything in Writing

A solid contract protects you and your investment. Before any work begins, make sure your agreement includes:

Total Cost & Payment Schedule – Avoid vague estimates. A clear breakdown of costs prevents surprises. Never pay 100% upfront!

Start & Completion Dates – This holds your contractor accountable for timely work.

Scope of Work & Materials – Ensure your contract lists exactly what materials will be used (brand, type, color) and the full scope of work.

Warranty Information – A good roofer will offer both a manufacturer’s warranty on materials and a workmanship warranty for labor.

Red Flag: If a contractor offers a verbal agreement only or demands full payment before starting, that’s a huge risk.

5. Communication & Customer Service

A reliable contractor should be easy to reach, responsive, and transparent. Pay attention to how they handle your initial inquiry:

Do they return calls promptly?
Do they answer your questions clearly?
Do they show up on time for the estimate?

The best roofing contractors are professional, organized, and upfront about costs, timelines, and expectations. If they’re difficult to reach before you sign a contract, imagine how frustrating it will be once work starts!

🚨 Red Flag: If a contractor pressures you into a decision or is vague about details, they may be trying to rush you into a bad deal.

Final Thoughts: Choose Wisely, Protect Your Home

Hiring the right roofing contractor in Florida isn’t just about getting a good deal—it’s about ensuring your home is protected for years to come. By doing your homework and choosing a licensed, insured, and experienced professional, you’ll save yourself time, money, and headaches down the road.

When in doubt, take your time, ask questions, and trust your gut. A quality roofing contractor will welcome your due diligence—because they have nothing to hide.

👉 Need a new roof or a repair? Start your search today by checking licenses, reading reviews, and getting multiple quotes. Your home (and wallet) will thank you! 🏡💙