Indiana Roofing Contractor Checklist: What to Verify Before You Sign

A new or repaired roof is one of the biggest investments you'll make in your home. In Indiana, roofing work can run from a few thousand dollars for minor repairs to $15,000 or more for a full replacement. Getting it wrong — by hiring the wrong contractor — can cost you even more in the long run.

This checklist walks you through every step you should take before handing over a single dollar to a roofing contractor in Indiana.

1. Verify Licensing and Registration in Indiana

Indiana does not require a statewide contractor's license for roofing work the way some states do. However, local licensing requirements vary by county and city. For example, some municipalities require a local business license or a contractor registration before work can begin.

Before hiring, ask:

• Do you hold any local permits or registrations required by my city or county?
• Are you registered with the Indiana Secretary of State as a legitimate business entity?
• Can you pull the required building permits for my project?

If a contractor says permits are unnecessary or offers to skip them to save money, that is a major red flag. Always require proper permits — they protect you legally and financially.

2. Confirm Insurance Coverage

This step is non-negotiable. Ask every roofing contractor you consider for proof of two types of insurance before work starts:

General Liability Insurance — Covers property damage if the crew accidentally damages your home, a neighbor's fence, or a vehicle during the project.

Workers' Compensation Insurance — If a worker is injured on your roof, you could be held financially responsible if the contractor doesn't carry this coverage. Indiana law generally requires employers with employees to carry workers' comp.

Don't just take their word for it. Ask for a certificate of insurance and call the insurance provider to confirm the policy is active and has not lapsed.

3. Check References and Online Reviews

A reputable Indiana roofing contractor will have a track record you can verify. Ask for:

• At least three recent local references you can call
• Photos of completed projects similar to yours
• Their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating at bbb.org
• Reviews on Google, Angi, or Houzz

Pay attention to how long they've been operating in Indiana. Storm-chasing contractors — companies that flood an area after a hailstorm or tornado — often lack local roots and may disappear before warranty issues arise. Prioritize contractors with a verifiable local address and years of Indiana operation.

4. Get Everything in Writing — Review Your Contract Carefully

Under Indiana law, home improvement contracts over $150 must meet certain written disclosure requirements per the Indiana Home Improvement Contract Act (IC 24-5-11). The contract should include:

• The contractor's full legal name, address, and contact information
• A detailed scope of work (materials, brand, color, shingle grade)
• The total price and payment schedule
• Project start and estimated completion dates
• Cleanup and disposal responsibilities
• A cancellation policy — Indiana law typically gives consumers a right to cancel certain contracts within a set period
• Permit responsibilities (who pulls and pays for permits)

Never pay 100% upfront. A standard payment structure is a deposit (often 10–30%), with the balance due upon satisfactory completion.

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5. Understand Warranties — Both Manufacturer and Workmanship

A quality roofing job comes with two layers of warranty protection:

Manufacturer Warranty — Covers defects in the roofing material itself (shingles, underlayment, etc.). These can range from 20 years to lifetime coverage depending on the product.

Workmanship Warranty — Covers the contractor's installation. This varies widely — from 1 year to 10+ years. Get this in writing and confirm what voids it.

Ask if the contractor is a certified installer for the shingle brand they're using. Certifications from manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed often unlock enhanced warranty coverage that standard installers can't offer.

6. Watch Out for Indiana-Specific Scam Tactics

Indiana homeowners — particularly in areas prone to hail and wind damage — are frequently targeted by roofing scams. Common warning signs include:

• Contractors who knock on your door unsolicited after a storm
• Pressure to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) form, which transfers your insurance claim rights to the contractor
• Promises to waive your insurance deductible (this may violate Indiana insurance law and could constitute fraud)
• Demanding large cash payments upfront
• No physical local business address

If something feels off, trust your instincts and get a second quote. Connect with our intake team to get matched with vetted local roofing professionals →

FAQ: Indiana Roofing Contractors

H3: Does Indiana require roofing contractors to be licensed?

Indiana does not have a mandatory statewide roofing license, but local municipalities may require permits or business registrations. Always check with your city or county building department before work begins.

H3: How many quotes should I get for a roofing project?

Most consumer protection experts recommend getting at least three written quotes. This gives you a realistic price range and helps you spot bids that are unusually low (often a red flag for poor materials or unlicensed workers).

H3: What happens if a roofing contractor damages my home in Indiana?

If the contractor carries general liability insurance, a claim can be filed against that policy. If they don't, you may need to pursue them through Indiana small claims court (for amounts up to $10,000) or civil court for larger damages. Document everything with photos and written communication from day one.

H3: Can I cancel a roofing contract in Indiana after signing?

Indiana law may provide a right to cancel certain home improvement contracts within a specific window — the exact timeframe and conditions can vary. Review your contract carefully and consult a consumer law attorney if you're unsure of your rights.

H3: What should I do if my roofer disappears before finishing the job?

File a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division (indianaconsumer.com) and consider contacting a local attorney about breach of contract. Also notify your homeowner's insurance company, as some policies cover contractor fraud scenarios.

Bottom Line

Hiring a roofing contractor in Indiana doesn't have to be stressful. Verify insurance, check references, demand a written contract, and watch for the warning signs above. A few hours of due diligence can save you thousands of dollars and months of headaches.

If you've already had a bad experience with a roofing contractor — or you're not sure where to start — we can help.

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