A roof replacement is one of the largest home repair expenses most Worcester homeowners will face, and it's also one of the easiest projects to get burned on if you hire the wrong contractor.
Storm-chasing crews and unlicensed subcontractors are common after any bad winter, so knowing what to check before signing a contract can save you thousands of dollars and a leaking roof.
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Step 1: Confirm the HIC License and Insurance
Massachusetts law requires a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration for any home repair contract over $1,000.
Ask for the HIC number and verify it directly on Mass.gov; don't just take a business card at face value.
Also confirm the crew carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation; without it, you could be financially responsible if someone is injured on your property.
Step 2: Check Manufacturer Certification
Roofing manufacturers like GAF and Owens Corning certify installers who meet specific training and volume requirements, and certified installers can typically offer stronger, non-prorated warranties than uncertified crews.
Fewer than 3% of U.S. roofing contractors hold GAF's top-tier Master Elite certification, so asking directly whether a company holds it is a quick way to separate serious roofing businesses from side-gig crews.
Step 3: Get Written, Itemized Estimates
A trustworthy roofer will give you a detailed written estimate covering tear-off, underlayment, ice-and-water shield (critical in New England), flashing, ventilation, and disposal, not just a lump-sum number.
Vague estimates are one of the most common warning signs of a contractor who plans to cut corners once the job starts.
Step 4: Ask About Warranty Terms
Manufacturer warranties on asphalt shingles typically range from 30 years limited to lifetime, but coverage depends heavily on whether the installer is certified.
Separately, ask about the contractor's own workmanship warranty; a manufacturer warranty on materials doesn't cover a leak caused by poor installation.
Step 5: Check Local References and Permit History
The City of Worcester requires a permit for full tear-off roof replacements.
A legitimate contractor will pull the permit as part of the job and won't hesitate when you ask to see recent local jobs or speak with past customers in your neighborhood.
Putting It Together
None of these steps takes more than a phone call or a quick site check, but skipping them is exactly how homeowners end up with a roof that leaks within two winters.
A properly vetted roofer in Worcester, MA, that families trust will expect these questions and answer them without hesitation. If a contractor gets defensive about licensing or warranty details, treat that as your answer.
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