do roofers have to be licenced in texas

A roofing license is an excellent way to show clients that your firm is reputable, trustworthy, and capable. Roofers, however, are not required to be licensed in most states, including Texas.

While Texas may not have state-level licensing regulations, some local jurisdictions, such as cities or counties, may have licensing, registration, or permitting requirements for roofing contractors. These local regulations may include obtaining a permit for specific projects, carrying insurance, or adhering to local building codes.

To ensure you comply with any relevant requirements, you must check the specific regulations in your local area. Contact your local city or county government office or building department to inquire about any necessary permits, licenses, or other requirements before starting a roofing project or hiring a roofing contractor.

Texas Roofing License Regulations

Only 21 states in the United States currently require roofers to be licensed. Texas is not one of them. Unless the contractor performs a specialty trade, they do not need to be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Despite the high degree of ability required to succeed in this industry, anyone in Texas can perform roofing services. However, general liability insurance is still necessary.  A license is required in some areas, such as San Antonio and Austin. If you are unsure about your city’s licensing and insurance requirements, you should conduct your research.

Why Aren’t Contractors in Texas Obliged to Obtain Licenses?

With fewer rules in Texas, new roofers have more opportunities to enter the industry. They also have greater possibilities to improve their skills. This is because, in some states, only a certain number of people can receive a license. Monopolies form when this occurs.

When contractors are not required to hold licenses, we avoid monopolies, allowing more people to work. However, this does come with a risk. Your home could be the home that the roofing company is learning on. We feel that new roofers need to learn about the industry. But, it would be best if learning was done under the watchful eye of someone that fully knows and understands what they are doing. Our roofing teams comprise people who have been in the industry for many years. We have the experience and knowledge to get the work done properly and quickly.

What Should Roofing Contractors Do?

While roofers are not required to be licensed, we must proactively present our roofing company in the best possible light. By earning our roofing license, we have demonstrated to our customers that we can be trusted with the most vital component of their home or business: the roof.

The Roofing Contractors Association of Texas helps contractors with the licenses (RCAT) they don’t need but want. RCAT will only license roofing contractors that are located in Texas, have general liability insurance or workers’ compensation insurance, and that pass certain examinations. The minor exam and renewal expenses will prove to our customers that we know what we are doing and have the knowledge to do the work we are hired for.

Obtaining a business license

To operate as a general roofing contractor in Texas, at the very least, the contractor will need to obtain a business license.  This is the case with any other small business. This process includes determining your business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, etc.).  It ensures the company complies with Texas tax obligations by obtaining a Tax ID Number.  It also provides that the company is obtaining essential insurance and permits.

This should be done at the county clerk’s office and is the bare minimum required by the state.

About Gordy Roofing Company

Gordy Roofing Company has been the trusted source in East Texas for over 50 years and across the area. We are a family-owned business started by our dad over five decades ago, and we are three brothers that have continued our family tradition and skill set taught to us by our father. We bring this commitment to you and our passion for turning your home into a work of art. We are insured, licensed, and bonded and have become the leading expert in our market segment. Please become part of our roofing family and history.

Gordy Roofing primarily serves customers in East Texas and the surrounding areas, including cities like Longview, Tyler, and Gilmer. They have experience working with various roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and flat roofs. Their team of skilled technicians is well-versed in addressing roofing issues like leaks, storm damage, general wear and tear, and complete upgrades.

We have locations in the following areas: Big Sandy Texas | Tyler Texas | Longview Texas | Mineola Texas | Gilmer Texas |