How to choose a roofer you won't regret
After a big storm, Charlotte fills up with door-knockers. Here's how to tell a solid roofer from a risky one in about fifteen minutes.
1. Check the licence
Roofing is licensed in North Carolina by the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors, under its specialty classification. A licence is required once a project reaches the dollar threshold in state law (G.S. 87-1); check the board's site for the current figure. Licences come in limited, intermediate and unlimited tiers by project size. You can look up any contractor on the board's website. And be wary of anyone who offers to split one roof into several small invoices: splitting a project to stay under the threshold is unlicensed contracting, a Class 1 misdemeanor.
2. Ask for insurance
All roofing contractors should carry liability insurance. Ask for a certificate before work begins, and check that the dates are current.
3. Ask about the permit
In Charlotte and the rest of Mecklenburg County, a roof replacement requires a building permit through LUESA. The roofer should apply for it. If a contractor suggests skipping it, walk away. For historic-district homes, ask whether a Certificate of Appropriateness is needed.
4. Get it in writing
A good quote lists materials by name, scope (tear-off, underlayment, flashing, vents), decking pricing per sheet, disposal, the permit, and the payment schedule. Compare quotes line by line.
5. Watch for red flags
- Pressure to sign the same day, especially after a storm.
- Large upfront payments before materials arrive.
- Offers to "cover your deductible" or inflate a claim.
- No local address, no permit history, an out-of-state phone number.
- Vague quotes with a single total and no line items.
6. Ask good questions
- Will you tear off to the decking?
- What happens if you find rotten wood, and what does it cost?
- Will you replace flashing and pipe boots or reuse them?
- How will you protect my landscaping and clean up nails?
- Who do I call if there's a problem afterward?
Quick questions
How do I look up a North Carolina roofing licence?
On the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors website, by name or licence number.
Should I sign with a door-knocker after a storm?
Not on the spot. Get the licence, insurance and a written quote, and compare at least one local roofer.
Is it OK if the roofer doesn't pull a permit?
Not for a replacement in Mecklenburg County. A permit is required.
How much deposit is reasonable?
A written schedule tied to milestones protects you. Be cautious about paying most of the cost upfront.