How Do I Know if a Roofing Contractor Is Licensed and Insured in Wisconsin?
Hiring a roofing contractor in Wisconsin isn’t just about comparing estimates or choosing the friendliest team — it’s about ensuring the company you hire is legally authorized and financially prepared to handle the work. Wisconsin homeowners face real risks when dealing with unlicensed or underinsured contractors.
From storm damage repairs to full replacements, roofing is one of the largest and most critical home investments you’ll make. If the contractor lacks proper credentials, you're potentially liable for accidents, substandard work, or voided warranties. That’s why understanding what it means to be licensed and insured is essential before signing a contract.
Think of this scenario: A roofer falls while working on your property. If that contractor doesn’t carry liability or workers’ compensation insurance, you could be the one responsible for medical bills. Or picture a poorly installed roof that fails inspection. Without a license and the backing of regulatory oversight, you might be left to fix costly mistakes on your own. Verifying a contractor’s credentials isn’t just paperwork — it’s protection.
This article breaks down the most important aspects of this topic so you can feel confident in your decision. We’ll explain what credentials Wisconsin roofing contractors should have, how to confirm their insurance coverage, the legal risks of hiring someone unlicensed, the meaning of being bonded, licensed, and insured, and how to verify a roofer’s license online. Whether you're considering maintenance or a new roof installation, these facts help you avoid financial and legal headaches.
Required Credentials for Roofing Contractors in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, roofing contractors are not required to hold a state-issued license specifically for roofing. However, if they offer services that involve asbestos removal or are engaged in general contracting activities beyond roofing, they may need specific state certifications.
The most critical credential for a roofing company is registering with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) and ensuring compliance with local licensing requirements, which vary by municipality. Cities such as Madison or Milwaukee may require a separate contractor license or business registration, depending on the scope of work.
Wisconsin roofing contractors should also possess a Dwelling Contractor Certification or a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification if they are involved in any residential building or structural work. This certification is issued by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) and demonstrates knowledge of building codes and construction standards. Companies should also be registered with the IRS for tax compliance and possess an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
Verifying these credentials helps protect homeowners from liability, substandard workmanship, or legal complications. Contractors who promote their roof installation services without proper certification are not held to the same regulatory standards, which increases your risk. Ensuring the roofer has the right credentials means they’re accountable to oversight bodies—and to you as the client.
How to Confirm a Roofer’s Insurance Coverage
Before any work begins, you must confirm that your contractor carries both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. General liability insurance protects your home and property from accidental damage caused by the contractor’s work. For instance, if a roofer damages your windows or landscaping during the installation process, this insurance covers the cost. Workers’ compensation, meanwhile, protects you if a worker is injured while on your property, ensuring you are not held personally liable.
Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) directly from the roofing contractor’s insurance provider—not just from the contractor. This document should list both types of coverage, policy numbers, and expiration dates. Double-check that the contractor’s name matches your agreement and verify that coverage will remain active throughout the project timeline. If anything seems out of date or unclear, contact the insurer listed on the certificate for confirmation.
Hiring an insured contractor gives you peace of mind that your investment — and your financial security — are protected. Even for routine maintenance or roof repair work, insurance coverage is non-negotiable. A legitimate contractor should have no issue supplying this documentation promptly.
The Legal and Financial Risks of Hiring an Unlicensed Roofer
Homeowners who hire unlicensed or uninsured roofers in Wisconsin expose themselves to significant legal and financial risks. Without proper licensing, there’s no official record or oversight of the contractor’s qualifications or past work. If disputes arise, your legal options are limited. An unlicensed roofer may also lack understanding of local building codes, leading to failed inspections, stop-work orders, or mandatory rework—costs that will fall directly on you.
Insurance claims may be denied if damage occurs during work performed by an unlicensed contractor. Homeowners' policies often include clauses that void coverage if unqualified labor contributes to the loss. Additionally, if the roofer or an employee is injured on your property and they lack workers’ compensation insurance, you could face lawsuits or be held financially responsible for medical expenses.
Hiring a licensed roofer isn’t just a matter of trust — it’s a safeguard that ensures the contractor meets minimum standards of professionalism and accountability. Legal protections and financial peace of mind rely on documented credentials and compliance with local and state regulations.
Understanding the Differences Between Bonded, Licensed, and Insured
While these terms are often used together, they represent distinct protections. Being “licensed” means the contractor meets state or local qualifications to perform work legally. This typically includes passing exams, carrying liability insurance, and complying with building codes. A license ensures the contractor is recognized by a regulatory agency and is subject to disciplinary action for violations or misconduct.
“Insured” refers to having general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. These policies protect both the contractor and the homeowner from financial harm due to accidents, injuries, or property damage. Without insurance, the homeowner becomes the default source of liability if something goes wrong on the job site.
Being “bonded” means the contractor has purchased a surety bond from a bonding company. This bond offers financial protection to the client if the contractor fails to complete the job, violates contract terms, or commits fraud. If a bonded contractor abandons the project or delivers substandard work, the homeowner can file a claim against the bond for financial compensation.
How to Check a Roofer’s License Online in Wisconsin
Homeowners can easily verify a roofing contractor’s credentials online through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) license lookup tool. By visiting the DSPS website, you can enter the contractor’s name or business name to check for any active Dwelling Contractor or Dwelling Contractor Qualifier certifications. This service provides information on license status, issue and expiration dates, and any disciplinary actions.
You should also confirm local licenses if your city or municipality requires them. For example, the City of Madison may have its own business licensing registry or permit verification system. Cross-checking both state and local databases gives a complete picture of a contractor’s legal status. If no license appears or if the listing shows it has expired, that’s a red flag.
Verification tools are available to the public and are simple to use. Taking a few minutes to validate a contractor’s license status can prevent costly repairs, legal battles, or project abandonment. When in doubt, request the license number directly and confirm it against the state database before signing any agreement with a roofer in Wisconsin.
Trust Isthmus Roofing for Licensed, Insured, and Verified Roofing Services
When hiring a roofing contractor in Wisconsin, don’t take chances on unverified providers. Isthmus Roofing is a locally trusted and certified company that meets all state and municipal requirements. With a Dwelling Contractor Certification, full liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and a strong track record of compliance, we take every step to deliver roofing services that protect both your home and your peace of mind.
Our Fitchburg-based team proudly serves Madison and other surrounding areas with high-quality residential and commercial roofing solutions. Whether you need a full installation, routine maintenance, or emergency repairs, we offer transparent documentation, clear estimates, and a commitment to code-compliant work.
Reach out to Isthmus Roofing at 608-949-0533, or, to ask about any of our certifications, contact us online today!