How to Hire a Roofer in Ontario
Roofing is one of the most common sources of contractor fraud in Ontario. There is no required licence for roofers, which makes due diligence even more important. This guide shows you exactly what to verify before signing a contract.
Hiring Checklist
Red Flags to Watch For
Door-to-door solicitation after a storm
Storm chasers target neighborhoods after severe weather. They do quick, low-quality work and disappear.
Demands large deposit (50%+)
Standard deposit is 10–30%. A large upfront payment gives you no leverage if work is substandard.
No WSIB coverage
If a worker is injured on your roof, you could be held financially liable without WSIB.
Verbal-only quote
Always get everything in writing. Verbal agreements are nearly impossible to enforce.
Will not provide references
Established roofers have a portfolio of completed projects and happy customers to reference.
Quote is dramatically lower than others
They may plan to use inferior materials, skip proper underlayment, or not pull permits.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
\u201cCan I see your insurance and WSIB certificates?\u201d
\u201cWhat materials will you use?\u201d
\u201cWhat warranty do you offer?\u201d
\u201cWill you remove the old roof?\u201d
\u201cHow do you handle rain during the project?\u201d
Licensing: No specific Ontario roofing licence required
Ontario does not require a specific licence for roofing work, which makes it easier for unqualified contractors to operate. This means verifying insurance, WSIB, references, and manufacturer certifications is essential. FinderHub’s Trust Index helps identify verified, reputable roofers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do roofers need a licence in Ontario?
No. Roofing is not a licensed trade in Ontario, which is why checking insurance, WSIB, and references is especially important.
How do I avoid roofing scams?
Never hire door-to-door solicitors, always get written contracts, verify insurance, and compare at least 3 quotes from established companies.
What should a roofing contract include?
Materials and specifications, start/end dates, total price with payment schedule, warranty terms, permit responsibilities, and cleanup details.
How long should a new roof last in Ontario?
Architectural shingles last 25–30 years, while metal roofs can last 50+ years. Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycles are hard on roofing materials.
Hiring a Roofer by City
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