How to Choose a Roofing Contractor in Pennsylvania

Check the PA home improvement registration

Pennsylvania's Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act requires most contractors who do home improvement work to register with the Attorney General's office. A registered contractor has a PA HIC number, which should appear on their contract and advertising. You can look it up on the Attorney General's website.

Ask for insurance certificates

• General liability insurance, in case your home is damaged
• Workers' compensation for their crew, so a fall on your roof isn't your problem
• Ask for the certificate to be sent directly from their insurance agent

Get the contract in writing

Pennsylvania law requires home improvement contracts above a small threshold to be in writing, signed, and to include key details such as the contractor's registration number, a description of the work, the total price and the start and completion dates. You also generally have a three-day right to cancel. Read it before you sign.

Compare quotes line by line

Make sure each quote covers tear-off, underlayment and ice-and-water shield, drip edge, flashing, ventilation, decking replacement price, permit, disposal and warranty. A low total that leaves these out isn't cheaper.

Red flags

• Door-to-door crews right after a storm with out-of-state plates
• Pressure to sign today or to sign over your insurance check
• Large cash deposits before materials arrive
• No local address, no references, no registration number

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