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 Office of Attorney General registers home improvement contractors under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act. Contractors who do at least $5,000 of home improvement work per year must register. The state says registration is not an endorsement of a contractor's skill. There is no exam. Some cities add local licensing. Ask for the PA HIC registration number, which must appear on the contract, 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Attorney General HIC Search. Check that the name and the status match the company you talk to.
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.