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 Consumer Affairs registers Home Improvement Contractor Businesses (HICBs). The state's list of covered work names roofing and siding. Registrants must carry commercial general liability insurance of at least $500,000 per occurrence, workers' compensation unless exempt, and a compliance bond or other security. P.L. 2023, c. 237 created a State Board of Home Improvement and Home Elevation Contractors that will move the program to licensing, but as of March 2026 the state still issues registrations. Ask for the NJ HIC 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.
We found no New Jersey rule on roof insurance claims that we could confirm on the state's own pages.
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 NJ Division of Consumer Affairs License Verification System. Check that the name and the status match the company you talk to.
Open the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs License Verification System
Sources
We read these official pages. Rules change, so check with the state or your building department before you sign. This page is general information. It is not legal advice.
The Roofing List does not check licenses or insurance. Our guide shows how to check a roofer's insurance and license, step by step.