What are the roofing license requirements in Georgia?
Short answer. Georgia has no state roofing license, so the practical requirements are local and financial: a city or county business license, building permits where the jurisdiction requires them, general liability insurance, and workers compensation if the company has three or more employees. Roofers who also take on broader construction work may need a state residential or general contractor license.
The checklist, and how to verify it
- Local business license. Ask which city or county issued it and check with that office. A company with no local license and no physical address is a red flag.
- Building permit. Requirements differ across Georgia's cities and counties. Ask whether a permit is required for your address and who pulls it. A roofer reluctant to pull permits may be avoiding inspection.
- General liability insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance sent directly from the agent, naming you as certificate holder. Check the policy dates.
- Workers compensation. Georgia generally requires it for employers with three or more employees. If crew members are subcontractors, ask how they are covered.
- State contractor license, when it applies. If the job goes beyond roofing, such as structural framing, additions or extensive carpentry, the contractor may need a residential or general contractor license from the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors. You can look up licenses on the Georgia Secretary of State's website.
Credentials that are voluntary but meaningful
- Shingle manufacturer certification, which affects the warranties a roofer can offer.
- A written workmanship warranty with clear terms.
- Staff with insurance knowledge, such as a licensed adjuster, for storm claims.
- A track record of reviews from your area.
What licensing rules do not protect you from
Deductible waivers and rebates are illegal in Georgia, contractors cannot act as your public adjuster, and after a declared disaster Georgia restricts contractors from taking an assignment of your insurance proceeds. A contractor who offers any of these is a reason to walk away. See how to choose a roofing contractor in Georgia and roofing permits in Georgia. This is general information, not legal advice; licensing rules can change.