Starting A Roofing Business

How to Start a Roofing Business in the USA

Picture Sarah, a roofer with five years of experience. She knew every shingle type by touch and could spot a weak seal from the ground. But when her boss handed her Friday’s paycheck short again, something shifted. She wanted to build something of her own. Something quality. Something hers.

Starting a roofing business means more than knowing how to work a nail gun. It means building a company where every roof you complete becomes your signature. This guide walks you through each step to launch your roofing business properly.

Step 1: Evaluate Your Readiness and Skills

Before you buy your first truck or order business cards, pause. Ask yourself hard questions.

Do you have roofing experience? Most states require proof of work history before granting licenses. You need hands-on skills with materials, safety protocols, and installation techniques.

Can you handle the business side? You’ll manage money, schedule crews, and talk with clients. These skills matter as much as your roofing talent. Consider reading about Essential Business Skills You Need To Succeed.

Check your financial cushion. Typical roofing startups require $10,000–$50,000+ depending on your market, vehicle/equipment choices, and insurance—some operators spend less, others more. Make sure you can cover 3–6 months of operating expenses while you build your client base.

Key Questions to Answer

• Do I have at least two years of roofing experience?
• Have I worked with the materials I plan to offer?
• Can I pass a licensing exam if my state requires one?
• Do I understand local building codes?

Step 2: Research Your Market and Decide Your Focus

Not all roofing businesses serve the same customers. Some focus on residential repairs. Others chase commercial contracts. Your choice shapes everything from equipment needs to licensing requirements.

Look at your local area. What types of homes dominate? Are they mostly asphalt shingle roofs, or do you see tile, metal, or flat roofs? Visit neighborhoods where you want to work. Note the home ages and roof conditions.

Research your competition. Drive past roofing supply stores and note the company trucks. Check online reviews for local roofers. What do customers praise? What complaints appear repeatedly?

Quality-focused businesses start by knowing exactly what excellence means to their customers. If homeowners in your area prize durability over speed, structure your business to deliver that.

You might also want to learn How To Find a Business That Is a Great Match for You before finalizing your direction.

Step 3: Create Your Business Plan

Think of your business plan as the blueprint for your company. You wouldn’t install a roof without plans. Don’t launch a business without one either.

Services You’ll Offer

Will you focus on installations, repairs, or both? Start with one or two roofing materials you know well. Asphalt shingles make a solid starting point. They’re common, in demand, and easier to master than specialized materials.

Your Target Customers

Define who needs your quality work. Residential homeowners in established neighborhoods? Property managers with multiple buildings? Storm restoration clients working with insurance?

Startup Costs and Pricing

List every expense. Include licensing fees, insurance premiums, tool purchases, truck costs, and initial material inventory. Then calculate your pricing. Quality work commands fair prices, but you need numbers that cover costs and leave profit.

Financial Projections

Estimate your first-year income and expenses. How many jobs do you need each month to break even? When will you turn a profit?

For a deeper look at planning, review Critical Points to Consider before starting your business.

Step 4: Choose Your Business Structure

Your business structure affects your taxes, liability, and paperwork load. The most common options are sole proprietorship, LLC, and S-corporation.

Sole Proprietorship

This is the simplest path. You and your business are one legal entity. Setup is fast and cheap. But here’s the risk: if a client sues because your crew damaged their property, they can go after your personal assets. Your home, car, and savings sit exposed.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC creates separation between you and your business. If someone sues your roofing company, they can only pursue business assets in most cases. Your personal property stays protected. LLCs also offer tax flexibility. Most roofing contractors choose this structure.

S-Corporation

This structure can save money on taxes but requires more paperwork. You pay yourself a salary and take distributions. The distributions avoid self-employment taxes. An accountant can help you decide if this fits your situation.

Consult a lawyer or accountant before choosing. Most recommend LLCs for roofing businesses because they balance protection and simplicity.

Step 5: Register Your Business and Get an EIN

Once you pick your structure, register with your state. The process varies by location, but generally involves filing paperwork with your Secretary of State office and paying a fee.

Choose a business name that’s clear and memorable. Avoid complicated words or long phrases. Make sure the name isn’t already taken by checking your state’s business registry.

After registration, get an Employer Identification Number from the IRS. You need this to hire employees, open business bank accounts, and file taxes. Apply online at the IRS website. It’s free and takes about 15 minutes.

You should also explore whether you want to Buy a Business or Build One From Scratch. Some contractors purchase existing roofing companies instead of starting fresh.

Step 6: Understand Your Licensing Requirements

Here’s where things get specific to location. Roofing licenses vary dramatically across states.

Licensing varies by state. Roughly half of states require a state roofing or contractor license, while others require registration or license contractors locally at the city/county level. Always verify current rules with your state board and local building department before bidding work.

States With Specific Requirements

Florida requires a contractor license with proof of four years of experience/education and a passed exam, along with financial/insurance requirements. California needs a C-39 Roofing Contractor License involving both trade and law/business exams, experience verification, a $25,000 contractor bond, and workers’ comp on file if you have employees. Arizona issues residential, commercial, dual, and specialty license classifications that cover roofing work.

States With Lighter Requirements

Texas requires no state roofing license; the RCAT program offers voluntary licensing. Colorado has no statewide roofing license; many cities and counties handle contractor licensing locally. Georgia generally treats roofing as an Exempt Specialty at the state level; local requirements may still apply.

How to Get Your License

Start by contacting your state’s contractor licensing board. They’ll outline requirements for your area. Common steps include:

• Documenting your work experience (typically two to four years).
• Studying for and passing trade exams that test roofing knowledge and safety protocols.
• Taking business and law exams covering contracts, codes, and regulations.
• Providing proof of insurance. Many states require this before issuing licenses.
• Posting a surety bond. Amounts vary by state—for example, California requires a $25,000 contractor bond. Confirm the current amount with your licensing board.

Don’t forget city and county permits. Even in states without licenses, local governments often require permits for roofing work.

Step 7: Secure Your Insurance Coverage

Insurance protects the quality reputation you’re building. One accident without coverage can destroy years of careful work.

General Liability Insurance

This covers third-party injuries and property damage. If your ladder scratches a client’s siding or a tool falls and dents their car, general liability pays. Costs vary widely by state, claims history, and revenue. Recent benchmarks show construction GL policies averaging around $80/month, while roofer-specific quotes can range roughly $50–$600+/month for common $1M/$2M limits. Get multiple quotes and match limits to your risk.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Required in most states if you hire employees. This covers medical bills and lost wages if crew members get hurt on the job. Roofing is high-risk work. Workers’ comp is priced primarily per $100 of payroll and by class code, so premiums vary sharply; roofing (often class 5551) is among the higher-risk classes. Estimate using your projected payroll and state rates, then shop carriers.

Commercial Auto Insurance

Your personal auto policy won’t cover business use. You need commercial coverage for trucks hauling materials and crews to job sites.

Tools and Equipment Insurance

Also called inland marine insurance. This protects your nail guns, ladders, compressors, and other gear whether they’re in your shop, truck, or at a job site. Entry-level premiums are often cited around $14/month for small tool schedules, but actual pricing depends on limits, deductibles, and theft controls.

Getting Quotes

Contact multiple insurance providers. Explain your specific situation. Coverage needs change based on whether you work solo or employ a crew. Many states won’t issue licenses without proof of insurance, so handle this early.

Understanding The Pros and Cons of Running A Business includes knowing how insurance protects you from devastating financial hits.

Step 8: Arrange Financing

Starting a roofing business requires capital. Many founders need at least $10,000–$50,000+, though costs can climb higher with vehicle purchases and extensive tool collections.

Personal Savings

The cleanest option. Using your own money means no debt and no outside control. But it also means risking personal funds.

Small Business Loans

Banks and credit unions offer loans specifically for startups. The Small Business Administration backs many of these loans, making approval easier. You’ll need a solid business plan and decent credit. Loan amounts typically range from $5,000 to $50,000 for roofing startups.

Equipment Financing

Some lenders offer loans specifically for tools and vehicles. The equipment itself serves as collateral. This can help if you lack cash for a truck or expensive power tools.

Personal Loans

Faster to obtain than business loans if you have good credit. Use these when you need cash quickly and have the income to repay.

Investors or Partners

Bringing in a partner means sharing ownership but also sharing risk. Make sure any partnership agreements are in writing and reviewed by a lawyer.

Before taking on debt, read about The Reasons for Getting Into Your Own Business to make sure your motivations align with the financial commitment.

Step 9: Purchase Your Essential Tools and Equipment

Quality tools produce quality work. Don’t cut corners here, but also don’t overspend on features you don’t need.

Core Hand Tools

You need metal snips ($10–$25), a roofing hatchet ($20–$50), hammer stapler ($30–$45), utility knives, chalk lines, pry bars, and measuring tools. Budget $245 to $650 for a complete hand tool set.

Power Tools

A pneumatic roofing nailer is essential. Quality models run $300 to $500. You’ll also need an air compressor ($200–$400), circular saw, and drill.

Safety Equipment

Never compromise on safety. Buy new, ANSI-rated gear. Each crew member needs a hard hat (typical retail from ~$10+), a full fall-protection kit (commonly $100–$300+ depending on brand/ratings), cut-resistant gloves ($15–$30), anti-slip boots with good support ($100–$200), and safety glasses ($11–$20). Budget appropriately per person for complete safety gear.

Ladders and Roof Access

A quality extension ladder often costs $150 to $300 depending on size and rating. You’ll need roof jacks ($10–$50 each) for creating stable platforms on steep pitches.

Vehicle

You don’t need a brand-new truck. A reliable used pickup in good condition works fine. Prices vary by market; focus on service history, payload capacity, and tow rating if you plan to use a debris container.

Debris Management

Professional roofers often use self-propelled debris trailers like the Equipter RB4000 to speed tear-offs and cleanup. New units list around $39,900 (updated Mar 1, 2025), and many regions offer daily/weekly/monthly rentals if you prefer not to buy.

Buying Strategy

Start with essentials. Buy quality hand tools and safety gear new. Consider used power tools if they’re in excellent condition. Rent specialized equipment until you can afford to buy. As you land jobs, purchase additional tools with revenue.

Step 10: Connect With Suppliers

Your material suppliers become partners in delivering quality. Visit local roofing supply stores and introduce yourself.

What to Ask Suppliers

• What materials do they stock? Do they carry the brands you want to use?
• Can you open a credit account? Many suppliers offer net-30 terms to established contractors.
• Do they deliver to job sites? What are the delivery fees?
• Do they offer contractor discounts or rebate programs?
• What are their hours? Can you pick up materials early morning or after hours?

Build Relationships

Get to know the counter staff by name. They’ll help you when you need a rush order or advice on a tricky material question. Quality suppliers support quality contractors.

Visit multiple suppliers. Compare prices, selection, and service. You’ll likely use different suppliers for different needs.

If you’re considering other paths, look into Here’s What You Need to Know About Owning a Franchise as some roofing franchises exist.

Step 11: Set Up Your Business Operations

Business Bank Account

Open a separate account for business finances. Never mix personal and business money. This separation protects your LLC status and makes taxes much simpler.

Accounting System

Use software like QuickBooks or hire a bookkeeper. Track every expense and invoice from day one. You’ll need clean records for taxes and to understand your profitability.

Contracts and Paperwork

Create clear written contracts for every job. Include project scope, materials, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms. Have a lawyer review your contract template.

Office Space

Start simple. A desk in your home works fine initially. As you grow, consider dedicated office space for meeting clients and managing crews.

Step 12: Prepare Your Safety Program

Quality roofing companies prioritize crew safety. Falls are the leading cause of death in construction, and roofing accounts for a significant share of fatal fall incidents. Create written safety protocols before your first job and enforce them every day.

OSHA Compliance

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets roofing safety standards. Learn these requirements. Key rules cover fall protection, ladder use, and working near power lines.

Training

Train every crew member on proper safety equipment use. Conduct regular safety meetings. Document all training.

Job Site Practices

Inspect equipment before each use. Secure the work area to keep clients and bystanders safe. Use proper fall protection on all jobs. Never rush a job at the expense of safety.

A strong safety record protects your crew and helps keep insurance costs down.

Step 13: Develop Your Pricing Structure

Quality work deserves quality prices. Underpricing damages the industry and your business.

Calculate Your Costs

Track every expense: materials, labor, insurance, vehicle costs, equipment depreciation, and overhead. Add these up for a typical job. This is your minimum price.

Research Market Rates

What do established companies charge in your area? Don’t aim to be the cheapest. Aim to deliver the best value through superior craftsmanship.

Price for Profit

Many residential roofing companies target ~30–40% gross margin (commercial work is often lower). Price to cover direct costs and overhead while funding training, safety, and warranty service.

Step 14: Create Your Pre-Launch Checklist

Before taking your first job, verify you’ve completed these steps:

• Business registered and EIN obtained?
• Licensing and permits secured for your area?
• Insurance policies active with proof of coverage?
• Business bank account opened?
• Supplier accounts established?
• Essential tools and safety equipment purchased?
• Contracts and paperwork templates prepared?
• Accounting system set up?
• Vehicle ready with necessary tools?
• Safety protocols written and understood?

Get An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start by talking with other roofing contractors about their experiences.

Step 15: Plan Your Launch Strategy

You’re almost ready to start. Plan how you’ll find those first clients.

Network in Your Community

Tell everyone you know about your business. Visit real estate agents, property managers, and home inspectors. They all have clients who need roofing work.

Get Listed Online

Create a simple website with your contact information and services. List your business on Google Business Profile, Yelp, and Angi. Ask early clients for reviews.

Start Small

Your first few jobs build your reputation. Focus on delivering exceptional quality. Word-of-mouth from satisfied customers beats any advertising.

Document Your Work

Take before and after photos of every job. These become your portfolio. Quality craftsmanship shows in the details.

Final Thoughts

Starting a roofing business means building something solid. Every roof you complete represents your commitment to quality. Take time with the foundation—proper licensing, insurance, and preparation. The contractors who rush this stage often struggle later.

Remember Sarah from the beginning? She spent three months handling paperwork, securing licenses, and choosing suppliers. It felt slow. But when she landed her first job, everything was ready. She delivered quality work on time. The client referred three neighbors. That’s how quality businesses grow.

Your roofing business begins with these steps. Execute them carefully, and you’ll build a company that stands the test of time—just like the roofs you install.

101 Tips For Running a Roofing Business

These tips are a quick-reference playbook you can use at any stage of your roofing business. Skim for ideas that match your goals, then act on the ones with the highest impact. Keep this list handy for planning, training, and daily decisions. Use it to stay focused when things get busy and to improve steadily over time.

What to Do Before Starting

1. Write a short business plan that sets your service mix (repairs, reroofs, new construction), target neighborhoods, pricing model, and first-year revenue goal.
2. Choose a legal structure that fits your risk and tax needs, and register with your state before you quote your first job.
3. Get the required contractor license and permits for your state and municipality; roofing rules vary widely by location.
4. Line up general liability, workers’ compensation, commercial auto, and inland marine (tools) insurance before hiring crews.
5. Open a dedicated business bank account and set up accounting software with job-costing from day one.
6. Price with a margin target (e.g., 45%–55% gross margin) and include overhead—phones, fuel, dump fees, and marketing—not just materials and labor.
7. Build a starter vendor network for shingles, metal, membranes, fasteners, underlayment, safety gear, and dumpsters; compare delivery fees and lead times.
8. Standardize your estimate template: scope, materials, warranty, exclusions, payment schedule, and change-order process.
9. Create a safety plan with written procedures for fall protection, ladders, personal protective equipment, and daily job briefings.
10. Buy or lease core equipment: harnesses, anchors, ladders, pump jacks or scaffolding, brake, nailers, compressors, tear-off tools, and a dump trailer.
11. Set up a simple CRM to track leads, estimates, approvals, invoices, and service reminders.
12. Define your brand basics—name, logo, uniforms, vehicle decals—so customers instantly recognize you.

What Successful Roofing Business Owners Do

13. Track key metrics weekly: leads, close rate, average job size, gross margin, labor hours per square, and callbacks.
14. Hold a 15-minute daily huddle to assign roles, review hazards, and confirm materials and start times.
15. Pre-walk every job to confirm measurements, access, dumpster placement, and neighbor notifications.
16. Photograph every roof before, during, and after work to document conditions and protect against disputes.
17. Negotiate volume pricing and delivery windows with suppliers; small discounts per square add up fast.
18. Build a bench of reliable subcontract crews and keep them busy with consistent schedules and fast pay.
19. Offer tiered options in every proposal (good/better/best) to raise average ticket size.
20. Collect progress payments tied to milestones (delivery, dry-in, completion) to protect cash flow.
21. Close jobs with a checklist: debris removed, magnets run, gutters cleared, photos saved, warranty registered.
22. Invest in training—shingle systems, low-slope details, flashing, ventilation—so crews install to spec every time.

Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)

23. Document standard operating procedures for tear-off, dry-in, flashing, penetrations, and cleanup.
24. Create a job file for each project with signed contract, permit, color selection, measurements, and crew notes.
25. Use a weather app with alerts and maintain tarps on every truck for sudden storms.
26. Stage materials the day before and verify counts to avoid mid-job supply runs.
27. Assign a site lead responsible for safety, quality, and homeowner communication.
28. Use checklists for ladder setup, fall protection, and anchor placement at the start of each shift.
29. Calibrate nail guns and verify fastener length and pattern per manufacturer specs at the start of each job.
30. Implement a tool sign-out system to reduce losses and keep kits complete.
31. Train crews on flashing best practices around chimneys, skylights, and walls; most leaks start at transitions.
32. Ventilate attics properly and verify intake/exhaust balance to prevent shingle failure and mold.
33. Track labor hours by task and roof area to refine future estimates.
34. Establish a rain-day plan: interior repairs, shop maintenance, training, and lead follow-up.
35. Use jobsite signs and clean uniforms to project professionalism and attract neighbors.
36. Schedule final inspections with the homeowner and review maintenance tips before collecting final payment.
37. Store records securely—contracts, photos, permits—for at least the length of your warranty period.

What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)

38. Building codes set minimum standards; always follow the stricter rule between code and manufacturer instructions.
39. Permit requirements differ by city; verify before tear-off to avoid stop-work orders.
40. Most regions have busy seasons in spring and fall; plan staffing and marketing around those peaks.
41. Expect supply swings—underlayments, fasteners, and shingles can face shortages—so keep buffer stock.
42. Roof systems are ecosystems: decking, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and shingles must work together.
43. Manufacturers may require registered installations for extended warranties; file promptly.
44. Ice dams and high winds drive service calls in certain climates; tailor your readiness to local risks.
45. Insurance carriers may specify materials and repair methods; learn their guidelines to avoid denied claims.
46. Low-slope roofs require different skills, adhesives, and safety methods; train crews before taking them on.
47. Keep up with environmental rules on tear-off disposal and stormwater protection at job sites.

Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)

48. Claim and complete your Google Business Profile with photos, services, and hours.
49. Ask every happy customer for a review the day you finish the job; text them the instructions.
50. Use jobsite yard signs and door hangers on the same block while crews are visible.
51. Showcase before-and-after photos on your website and social channels to build trust.
52. Run local service ads targeting neighborhoods where you have recent installs.
53. Offer financing options to reduce sticker shock and increase approvals.
54. Create seasonal promos (storm checks, winter tune-ups, ventilation upgrades) tied to local weather patterns.
55. Partner with realtors, property managers, and HOAs for steady referral work.
56. Build a simple FAQ page answering the top 10 customer questions about roof replacements.
57. Track lead sources and cost per lead; double down on the channels that close profitably.
58. Use branded trucks as mobile billboards; keep them clean and parked visibly near job sites.
59. Sponsor local events or youth teams to build community recognition.

Dealing With Customers to Build Relationships (Trust, Education, Retention)

60. Educate homeowners on materials, ventilation, and warranties in clear, non-technical language.
61. Provide written timelines with start dates, crew size, daily hours, and expected completion.
62. Explain how you protect landscaping, siding, and driveways; show your cleanup plan.
63. Offer product samples and color boards during estimates to help decisions.
64. Send daily photo updates for multi-day projects so customers see progress.
65. Be upfront about potential change orders for rotten decking or hidden damage.
66. Provide maintenance tips after install: gutter cleaning, tree trimming, and attic ventilation checks.
67. Create a referral program and thank referrers promptly with a gift card or service credit.
68. Keep records of shingle color, lot number, and warranty for each customer in your CRM.
69. Send annual roof check reminders to maintain relationships and generate service work.

Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback Loops)

70. Publish a clear workmanship warranty term and what it covers; avoid vague promises.
71. Set a service response standard (e.g., within 24–48 hours) and meet it consistently.
72. Use a ticketing system for callbacks and track root causes to reduce repeats.
73. Offer a satisfaction walkthrough at completion and fix punch-list items immediately.
74. Provide temporary emergency dry-in services for active leaks, even for non-customers.
75. Train your office staff to triage calls, set expectations, and schedule efficiently.
76. Follow up 30 days after completion to confirm satisfaction and request a review.
77. Log all complaints, resolutions, and lessons learned to improve processes.

Plans for Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term Viability)

78. Recycle shingles where facilities exist and separate metal flashings for scrap.
79. Recommend cool-roof or higher-efficiency options when appropriate to cut heat gain.
80. Right-size ventilation and insulation guidance to extend roof life and reduce energy use.
81. Reduce waste by precise measuring, staged deliveries, and returning unopened bundles.
82. Choose durable flashing and underlayment systems to minimize future failures and tear-offs.
83. Maintain trucks and route efficiently to cut fuel costs and emissions.

Staying Informed With Industry Trends (Sources, Signals, Cadence)

84. Review code updates and manufacturer technical bulletins quarterly.
85. Attend at least one industry expo or training each year to see new systems and tools.
86. Monitor local building department notices for permitting or inspection changes.
87. Keep a binder (digital or physical) of current installation guides for the systems you install.
88. Subscribe to reputable trade newsletters for safety, materials, and business tips.

Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)

89. Build a cash reserve covering at least two payrolls to weather rainouts and slow weeks.
90. Cross-train crews for repair work so you can pivot when full replacements dip.
91. Add storm-readiness services—inspections, temporary covers, insurance photo documentation—after major weather events.
92. Use measurement software or drones (where allowed) to speed estimates and improve accuracy.
93. Keep alternative suppliers in your system so you can switch SKUs during shortages.
94. Test new products on small jobs first and monitor callbacks before scaling.

What Not to Do (Issues and Mistakes to Avoid)

95. Don’t start work without a signed contract, permit (when required), and proof of materials selection.
96. Don’t skip fall protection or rely on “short jobs” as an excuse; one fall can end a business.
97. Don’t ignore attic ventilation or flashing details; they cause most callbacks and warranty claims.
98. Don’t underprice to win bids; low margins lead to cash crunches and quality slips.
99. Don’t leave nails, debris, or damaged landscaping; poor cleanup kills referrals.
100. Don’t bad-mouth competitors; focus on your process, quality, and service.
101. Don’t delay registering warranties or documenting job photos; missing records weaken your position in disputes.

Sources: OSHA, NRCA, ICC, EPA, ENERGY STAR, SBA, IRS, GAF, CertainTeed, IKO, Next Insurance, Harbor Compliance, Jobber, Insureon, ServiceTitan, ZenBusiness, AccuLynx