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, storm chasers and unlicensed contractors show up after every hail season — and homeowners who skip due diligence can end up with shoddy work, voided warranties, or no contractor to call when leaks return. This checklist walks you through every step so you hire the right person for the job.
1. Confirm Licensing and Registration in Indiana
Indiana does not require a single statewide roofing license, but that does not mean anyone can legally work on your roof without accountability. Here is what to check:
- Local permits and municipal registration. Many Indiana cities — Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, and others — require contractors to register with the city and pull a building permit before roofing work begins. Ask your contractor if a permit is needed and who pulls it. A legitimate roofer will handle this without hesitation.
- Secretary of State business registration. Verify the company is a registered Indiana business at in.gov. This confirms they are operating legally and have a traceable address.
- Home Improvement Contracts Act. Indiana's Home Improvement Fraud Act (IC 35-43-6) makes it a crime to take payment and abandon work or use deceptive practices. Knowing this law exists helps you spot red flags early.
If a contractor says permits are unnecessary or asks you to pull the permit yourself to "save money," walk away.
2. Verify Insurance: Two Policies You Must See
Never let a contractor climb on your roof without proof of two separate insurance policies:
- General Liability Insurance — covers damage to your property if something goes wrong (a worker drops a tool through a skylight, for example). Ask for a certificate of insurance (COI) naming you as the certificate holder.
- Workers' Compensation Insurance — covers workers injured on your property. Without it, you could be held liable for a worker's medical bills under Indiana law.
Call the insurance company directly to confirm the policy is active and not expired. This one phone call can save you thousands.
3. Get Everything in Writing: Your Contract Must-Haves
Indiana's Home Improvement Fraud Act requires written contracts for home improvement work over a certain threshold. Regardless of project size, always insist on a detailed written contract that includes:
- Scope of work — exact materials, brand, color, shingle grade (e.g., GAF Timberline HDZ 30-year architectural)
- Total price and payment schedule — avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront; a deposit of 10–30% is typical
- Project start and completion dates
- Cleanup and debris removal — who hauls away old shingles and nails?
- Permit responsibility — who applies, pays for, and schedules inspections?
- Change order process — any changes to cost or scope must be approved in writing
- Lien waiver agreement — a signed lien waiver protects you from subcontractor disputes
If you need help reviewing a roofing contract or have questions about your rights as a homeowner, start a free intake with our 24/7 AI.
4. Check References, Reviews, and Local Reputation
Do not rely on a flyer left on your door after a storm. Verify the contractor's track record:
- Google, BBB, and Angi reviews — look for patterns, not just the overall star rating
- Ask for 3 local references — call them and ask about timeline, cleanup, and whether they would hire the company again
- Check the BBB — search bbb.org for the company name and look at complaint history
- How long have they been in business? — a company with 10+ years and a local address is lower risk than a seasonal out-of-state operation
Storm chasers often disappear within a year. A local Indiana roofer with an established reputation has more reason to stand behind their work.
5. Understand Your Warranty Coverage
Roofing warranties come in two types, and both matter:
- Manufacturer's material warranty — covers defective shingles, typically 20–50 years depending on the product. This warranty can be voided if the shingles are not installed by a certified contractor. Ask if your roofer is manufacturer-certified (e.g., GAF Certified Contractor, Owens Corning Preferred Contractor).
- Workmanship warranty — covers installation errors. Length varies widely — from 1 year to a lifetime. Get it in writing.
Always read both warranty documents before signing the contract. Ask what voids each warranty.
6. Work With Your Insurance Company the Right Way
If storm damage is involved, be careful:
- Get your own adjuster's estimate before signing anything with a contractor
- Indiana law prohibits contractors from waiving your insurance deductible — that is insurance fraud
- Never sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) that transfers your insurance claim rights to the contractor without understanding what you are giving up
- You have the right to get multiple repair estimates even after an adjuster visit
If you feel a contractor or insurer is treating you unfairly, you can file a complaint with the Indiana Department of Insurance at in.gov/idoi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Indiana require roofing contractors to be licensed?
Indiana has no single statewide roofing license requirement as of this writing, but individual cities and counties may require local registration or a business license. Always check with your local building department before work begins.
What happens if a roofer damages my property in Indiana?
If the contractor carries general liability insurance, their policy should cover the damage. If they are uninsured, you may need to pursue a civil claim. Document everything with photos immediately and consult an attorney if the contractor refuses to make it right. Our intake team can help connect you with the right resource.
How much should I put down on a roofing job in Indiana?
A typical deposit ranges from 10% to 30% of the total project cost. Never pay 100% upfront. Final payment should be made only after the work passes inspection and you are satisfied with the result.
What is the statute of limitations for home improvement fraud in Indiana?
Civil and criminal timelines vary — confirm the exact deadline with a licensed Indiana attorney, as it depends on the type of claim and when you discovered the problem.
Can a contractor waive my deductible to win my business?
No. In Indiana, a contractor waiving your insurance deductible is considered insurance fraud and is illegal. Walk away from any contractor who offers this as a selling point.
Hiring a qualified Indiana roofing contractor does not have to be stressful. Use this checklist, trust your gut, and never skip the written contract. If something feels off — high-pressure tactics, requests for full payment up front, or vague scope of work — it probably is.
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