Roofing license requirements in Alaska

Who needs a license

State registration required. The state keeps a list of registered contractors. The roofer pays a fee and shows proof of insurance, but takes no trade exam.

The Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing issues a Certificate of Registration as a Construction Contractor. A roofing company usually registers as a Specialty Contractor (up to three trades), which needs a $10,000 bond, insurance and a state business license. No trade exam is required. Alaska requires a Residential Contractor Endorsement for general contractors undertaking construction of a new home or residential work greater than 25% of the structure’s value; that endorsement requires an exam and a cold-climate course. A 'Handyman' registration covers jobs of $10,000 or less. Ask to see the contractor's registration number and check it online.

Bond and insurance

A license or registration is not insurance. Ask every roofer for a certificate of general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Then call the insurer to confirm the policy is active. If the state asks a roofer for a bond, the rules above say so.

Roof insurance rules in Alaska

Alaska's claim rules say that when new material does not match the old in quality, color or size, the insurer must replace the material in the area so it looks reasonably uniform. You pay only your deductible for this. This applies to the roof and other outside losses.

Permits

Confirm roof permit requirements with the building department responsible for your address and scope of work. Agree with your contractor who will obtain any required permit and arrange inspections before work begins.

How to verify a roofer's license

Ask the roofer for the license or registration number. Then look it up yourself on the state's own site, the Alaska Professional License Search. Check that the name and the status match the company you talk to.

Open the Alaska Professional License Search