How to Vet a Licensed Roofer in Florida (and Check Their License)

I’ve been through two roof replacements here in Florida and one hurricane claim, so I know firsthand how important it is to hire a roofer you can trust. After the last storm, I saw too many neighbors get burned by unlicensed operators who disappeared after taking a deposit. That’s why I always start by checking a roofer’s license with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Here’s exactly how to do it—and what else to look for when vetting a licensed roofer in Florida.

Why Checking a Roofer’s License Matters in Florida

Florida’s climate is brutal on roofs—intense sun, heavy rain, and hurricane-force winds. A properly licensed roofer has passed state exams, carries required insurance, and follows Florida Building Code. An unlicensed roofer might save you a few bucks upfront, but they can leave you with shoddy work, code violations, or no recourse if something goes wrong. The DBPR makes it easy to verify a license online, and it takes only a minute.

What Florida Roofing Licenses Look Like

In Florida, a roofing contractor must hold one of two license types from the DBPR:

• Certified Roofing Contractor (statewide license) – Allows work anywhere in Florida.
• Registered Roofing Contractor (local license) – Only valid in specific counties or municipalities.

Both require passing trade and business exams, proof of insurance, and a clean background check. You can verify either type on the DBPR’s website under “Verify a License.”

How to Check a Roofer’s License in Florida (Step by Step)

This is the most important step when vetting any roofer. Here’s how I do it:

1. Go to the DBPR website. Look for the “Verify a License” tool. It doesn’t require an account.
2. Enter the roofer’s name or license number. If they give you a business card, the license number should be printed on it. If not, ask for it.
3. Check the status. It should say “Current” or “Active.” If it’s “Expired,” “Suspended,” or “Revoked,” walk away.
4. Look at the license type. Make sure it says “Certified Roofing Contractor” or “Registered Roofing Contractor.” Don’t accept a general contractor license—roofing requires a specific credential.
5. Review any disciplinary history. The DBPR site shows complaints, fines, or suspensions. A few minor issues might be okay, but multiple serious violations are a red flag.

If you’re unsure about the license status, call your local building department. They can also confirm if the roofer is registered in your area.

Beyond the License: What to Vet in a Florida Roofer

Checking the license is step one. Here are other things I always verify before hiring:

Insurance Coverage

Florida law requires roofers to carry workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance directly from their insurer—not just a copy of the policy. Call the insurance company to confirm it’s current. Without this, you could be on the hook if a worker gets hurt on your property.

Local Experience

A roofer who knows Florida’s climate will understand things like proper underlayment for high humidity, flashing details for heavy rain, and wind-resistant shingle installation. Ask how many years they’ve worked in your county. Look for a physical address in Florida—out-of-state companies often don’t handle storm claims well.

References and Reviews

Ask for at least three recent references from jobs similar to yours (e.g., a full replacement, a repair, or a storm claim). Call them and ask about communication, timeline, and cleanup. Also check online reviews on sites like Google or the Better Business Bureau, but take a few negative reviews with a grain of salt—look for patterns.

Written Estimates and Contracts

Get at least three written estimates. A lowball bid might mean they’re cutting corners on materials or skipping permits — it helps to know what a new roof actually costs in Florida so you can spot a quote that’s too good to be true. The contract should include:

• Scope of work (materials, brand, color, etc.)
• Start and completion dates
• Payment schedule (never pay more than 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less, per Florida law)
• Warranty details (manufacturer’s and workmanship)
• Permit responsibility (the roofer should pull the permit, not you)

Permits and Inspections

In Florida, most roof replacements require a permit from your local building department. A licensed roofer will pull the permit and schedule inspections (more on whether you need a roof permit in Florida). If they say you don’t need one, that’s a huge red flag. Unpermitted work can cause problems when you sell your home or file an insurance claim for roof replacement.

Red Flags to Watch For

During my hurricane claim, I learned a few warning signs the hard way:

• High-pressure sales tactics or “today-only” discounts
• Requesting full payment upfront or a large cash deposit
• No physical office or only a P.O. box
• Refusing to provide a license number or insurance certificate
• Out-of-state phone number or no local references

Practical Takeaway

Vetting a roofer in Florida starts with one simple step: check their license on the DBPR site. Then verify insurance, ask for local references, and get a detailed written contract. Never pay more than 10% down, and make sure they pull the permit. It takes a little extra time, but it saves you from costly mistakes—and gives you peace of mind when the next storm rolls in. Ready to start? Browse licensed roofers in your city, from Jacksonville to Miami, and check each DBPR license before you hire.