A roof is too important—and too expensive—to choose a contractor based only on the lowest estimate. California gives homeowners several objective checks they can use before signing a roofing contract.
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Quick Answer
In California, roofing is a licensed specialty classification (C-39). Verify the contractor's license status directly with CSLB before hiring.
Roofing is also one of the classifications for which workers' compensation requirements are especially important under current CSLB rules.
1. Are You Currently Licensed for Roofing in California?
Ask for the license number and verify it yourself. Do not rely on a screenshot or business card. CSLB's C-39 classification covers roofing work involving weatherproofing and waterproofing roof surfaces.
2. Is the License Active and in the Correct Business Name?
Compare the business name on the proposal with the CSLB record. Review status, classification, bond information, and workers' compensation information shown in the license record.
3. What Insurance Do You Carry?
Ask about general liability coverage and workers' compensation. Confirm coverage appropriate to the project rather than assuming a license alone answers every insurance question.
4. What Exactly Is Wrong With My Roof?
Ask the roofer to identify the observed problem, affected area, likely cause, and whether repair or replacement is being recommended. Photos are useful.
5. Repair or Replacement—Why?
Ask what evidence supports the recommendation. A localized leak or flashing problem can be different from widespread deterioration.
6. What Materials and System Are You Proposing?
The proposal should identify the roofing system and major materials, not simply say 'new roof.' Ask about underlayment, flashing, ventilation, penetrations, manufacturer, product line, and disposal.
7. Who Pulls the Permit?
If a permit is required, the written agreement should clearly identify responsibility. CSLB contract guidance specifically emphasizes permit responsibility and project details.
8. What Is the Work Schedule?
Ask for expected start, duration, weather contingencies, daily cleanup, material delivery, and how the property will be protected.
9. What Warranty Applies?
Separate manufacturer material warranties from contractor workmanship warranties. Get warranty terms in writing.
10. What Is the Payment Schedule?
California home-improvement contract rules limit down payments in most cases to $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less, subject to a narrow bond exception. Progress payments should track work/material value.
11. Can I See Recent Similar Projects and References?
Ask for projects using similar roofing materials and, ideally, similar building types. References are more useful when recent and relevant.
12. What Happens If You Find Hidden Damage?
Roof removal can reveal deteriorated decking or other concealed conditions. Ask how additional work is documented, priced, and approved through written change orders.
Red Flags
- Pressure for a large upfront payment
- License information that does not match the contracting entity
- Vague scope or materials
- No written change-order process
- Cash-only pressure
- Unwillingness to provide references or proof of insurance
- A price far below comparable bids without a clear scope explanation
The Bottom Line
Verify the C-39 license, normalize the scope across bids, understand materials and warranties, and insist on clear written terms.
Frequently asked questions
What license should a California roofer have?
Roofing contractors commonly hold the C-39 Roofing classification; verify the specific license and status with CSLB.
How many roofing bids should I get?
CSLB consumer guidance recommends getting at least three bids and checking references.
How much can a roofer ask for as a down payment?
For most California home-improvement contracts, the down payment cannot exceed $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less, subject to a limited exception.
Should the roofer pull the permit?
The contract should clearly state who is responsible for required permits.
References & sources
- California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), contractor licensing threshold and exemptions https://www.cslb.ca.gov/contractors/applicants/contractors_license/exam_application/before_applying_for_license.aspx
- CSLB, home-improvement contracts https://www.cslb.ca.gov/Consumers/Hire_A_Contractor/Home_Improvement_Contracts/What_Is_A_Contract.aspx
- CSLB, contractor prescreening guidance https://www.cslb.ca.gov/Resources/GuidesAndPublications/ChecklistForPrescreeningContractors.pdf
- CSLB, Check a License https://www.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/CheckLicense.aspx
- CSLB C-39 Roofing classification https://www.cslb.ca.gov/about_us/library/licensing_classifications/Licensing_Classifications_Detail.aspx?Class=C39