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 Secretary of State's Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) registers residential contractors. Registration is required for residential work of $10,000 or more, labor and materials included, and roofing is in the definition. There is no exam. Registrants must carry $1,000,000 per occurrence liability insurance and use a written contract. Ask for the OPR registration number and the written contract.
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 Vermont 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 Vermont OPR Find a Professional. 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.