Licensed Roofer Requirements in Louisiana | What Homeowners Need to Know

Why Louisiana Requires Licensed Roofers

Louisiana is one of the most weather-challenged states in the country. Between hurricanes, hail storms, and heavy rainfall, roofing work here demands real expertise. That is why the state requires contractors performing roofing work to hold a specific license issued by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC).

Unfortunately, after every major storm, unlicensed contractors flood into Louisiana looking for quick jobs. Hiring one of these contractors can leave you with shoddy work, voided warranties, and no recourse if something goes wrong. Understanding the licensing requirements helps you protect your home and your investment.

What the Law Requires

Residential Roofing License

As of January 1, 2026, Louisiana law requires that anyone advertising, soliciting, bidding on, or performing residential roofing work valued at $7,500 or more must hold either a:

Residential Roofing License, or
Residential Construction License

This requirement was established by Act 422 of the 2025 Legislative Session and is enforced by the LSLBC.

Commercial Roofing License

For commercial roofing projects where the total project value exceeds $50,000, contractors must hold a commercial contractor's license with the appropriate roofing classification.

Permit and Inspection Requirements

Act 239, also effective August 1, 2025, requires that all residential and commercial roofing and reroofing projects obtain a permit from the local authority before work begins. Inspections must be completed and approved as required by the municipality or parish.

It is now a violation of Louisiana law for contractors to:

Start work without obtaining a permit
Misrepresent the project value or scope
Skip required inspections

Violations can trigger disciplinary action from the LSLBC, including fines and license revocation.

What It Takes to Get a Louisiana Roofing License

Getting a Louisiana roofing license is not a simple process. The LSLBC requires applicants to meet several requirements:

Trade Examination

Applicants must pass a residential roofing trade examination that covers:

Roof pitch calculations and measurements
Roofing materials and their proper applications
Installation methods and best practices
Nail patterns, spacing, and fastener requirements
Seam construction and waterproofing techniques

Contractors who already hold a residential construction, building construction, or commercial roofing license are exempt from the trade exam requirement.

Financial and Business Requirements

Proof of financial responsibility
Business documentation and paperwork
Workers' compensation insurance
General liability insurance

Ongoing Compliance

Licensed contractors must maintain their credentials, carry active insurance, and follow all state regulations. The LSLBC can audit, investigate, and discipline licensees who fail to comply.

Professional roofing tools and equipment used by licensed Louisiana contractors

How to Verify a Contractor's License

Before hiring any roofing contractor in Louisiana, verify their license status directly with the LSLBC:

Visit the LSLBC website at lslbc.louisiana.gov
Search by the contractor's name or license number
Confirm the license is active and covers roofing work
Check for any disciplinary actions or complaints

You can also call the LSLBC directly at (225) 765-2301 to verify a contractor's status.

Red Flags to Watch For

Contractor cannot provide a license number
License does not include roofing as a classification
Company only has a local occupational license (this is not a contractor's license)
Contractor is from out of state with no Louisiana license
Door-to-door solicitation immediately after a storm

Why Licensing Matters for Homeowners

Insurance Protection

Most homeowner's insurance policies require that roofing work be performed by a licensed contractor. Work done by an unlicensed contractor can:

Void your insurance claim
Leave you responsible for future damage
Disqualify you from warranty coverage on materials

Warranty Coverage

Shingle manufacturers typically offer lifetime warranties on their products, but these warranties often require installation by a licensed contractor. Hiring an unlicensed roofer can void the manufacturer's warranty entirely.

Quality Assurance

Licensed roofers have demonstrated their knowledge through testing. They understand Louisiana-specific challenges like wind uplift resistance, proper nail patterns for hurricane zones, and moisture management in our humid climate.

Legal Recourse

If a licensed contractor does poor work, you have recourse through the LSLBC. The board can investigate complaints, require corrective work, and discipline the contractor. With an unlicensed contractor, you have little to no recourse.

What About Gutter Installation?

It is worth noting that Louisiana does not require a state license specifically for gutter installation. However, reputable companies maintain proper business licenses and insurance for all work they perform.

At Faithful Gutters, we hold all required licenses for roofing work and maintain comprehensive insurance coverage, including workers' compensation. With 25+ years in business across Louisiana, we have built our reputation on doing things the right way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a roof repair?
Under Act 239, permitting is required for roof construction and reroofing projects. Small repairs may not require a permit depending on your local jurisdiction, but your contractor should be licensed regardless.

Can an out-of-state contractor work on my roof?
They must hold a valid Louisiana contractor's license. Being licensed in another state does not satisfy Louisiana requirements.

What is the difference between a contractor's license and an occupational license?
An occupational license gives a business the authority to operate in a city or parish, primarily for tax purposes. A contractor's license from the LSLBC specifically authorizes the holder to perform construction work and requires passing trade examinations.

How much does it cost to hire a licensed roofer vs. an unlicensed one?
Licensed roofers may charge more because they carry insurance, pay for licensing, and follow code requirements. However, this cost difference protects you from far more expensive problems: failed insurance claims, voided warranties, and substandard work that needs to be redone.

What should I do if I suspect a contractor is unlicensed?
You can report unlicensed contracting activity to the LSLBC at (225) 765-2301 or through their website. It is illegal to perform contracting work without proper licensure in Louisiana.

Protect Your Home the Right Way

Your roof is your home's first line of defense against Louisiana weather. Hiring a licensed, insured roofing contractor is not just a legal requirement; it is the best way to protect your investment, your insurance coverage, and your family's safety.

If you need roofing work in Louisiana, contact Faithful Gutters for a free estimate. We are fully licensed, insured, and have been serving Louisiana homeowners for over 25 years.