Do Roofers in Atlanta Need to Be Licensed and Insured?

You’ve noticed a leak, a few shingles in the yard, or maybe you’re just tired of looking at a roof that’s seen better days. It’s time to call in a professional. But before you Google “roofing contractor near me” and start dialing, you might ask yourself a simple but important question: do roofers need a license in Georgia?

It’s a great question—and one that doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer.

At Rosie’s Roofing and Restoration, a trusted roofing company in Atlanta, we’ve worked with countless homeowners who were surprised to learn just how murky Georgia’s roofing license requirements can be. Whether you’re replacing a few shingles or investing in a full roof replacement, it’s essential to understand how licensing and insurance protect you, the homeowner. And, just as important, how to tell if a contractor is cutting corners.

Let’s walk through what you need to know about licensed roofers in Atlanta and why choosing an insured roofing contractor is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

Why Licensing and Insurance Matter When Hiring a Roofer in Atlanta

You’re not just hiring someone to fix a roof. You’re hiring someone to protect your home—the place where you live, raise your family, and store your life’s biggest investments. That’s why credentials matter.

Without proper licensing or insurance, a roofer can leave you exposed to financial risk, legal liability, and serious damage that may not be covered by your homeowner’s insurance. If something goes wrong on the job—or long after they’ve packed up their ladders—you could be left holding the bill.

So before we get into the specifics, here’s the big idea: hiring a roofer in Atlanta isn’t just about who offers the best price. It’s about who offers the most protection—for your roof and for you.

Now let’s dig into the details.

Understanding Roofing License Requirements in Georgia

You might assume that every roofer in Georgia needs a state license to operate legally. The reality is a bit more nuanced.

Does Georgia Require a Roofing License?

Technically, Georgia does not have a specific state license requirement for roofing contractors. That’s right—there’s no official “roofing license” issued by the state for residential work unless the contractor is working on projects that exceed $2,500 and involve structural changes. And even then, licensing typically falls under the broader category of general contracting.

This lack of regulation can create confusion for homeowners. Without a standardized roofing license requirement, the market is flooded with roofers of all skill levels—from highly trained professionals to unqualified handymen who might leave you with a leaky mess.

That’s why the next piece of the puzzle is just as critical—insurance.

The Role of Insured Roofing Contractors in Protecting Homeowners

Even if Georgia doesn’t mandate specific roofing licenses, insurance is non-negotiable when hiring a roofing professional.

What Kind of Insurance Should a Roofer Have?

At a minimum, an Atlanta roofing contractor should carry:

• General liability insurance: This covers property damage during the project. If your contractor accidentally damages your home or your neighbor’s, you’re protected.
• Workers’ compensation insurance: If a crew member is injured while working on your property, this prevents you from being held financially responsible for medical bills or lost wages.

If a contractor can’t provide proof of both, that’s your cue to walk away. Quickly.

At Rosie’s Roofing and Restoration, we maintain full insurance coverage because we believe in doing things the right way—and because we want you to sleep easy knowing you’re protected from the unexpected.

Why Many “Roofers” Operate Without Licensing or Insurance

Unfortunately, the lack of strict roofing license requirements in Georgia opens the door for less-than-reputable contractors. Many will undercut pricing, skip critical installation steps, or disappear after the first heavy rain.

These are the folks who rely on storm damage spikes and door-to-door sales tactics. They rarely have an office, a long-term presence in the community, or any meaningful accountability. And they’re a big reason why hiring a roofer in Atlanta can feel like a gamble.

But it doesn’t have to.

The best insured roofing contractors don’t just meet the minimums—they exceed them. They offer real credentials, clear communication, and warranties that mean something.

What to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer in Atlanta

To protect yourself and your home, ask these key questions when evaluating roofing contractors:

1. Are you licensed to do roofing or general contracting work in Georgia?
2. Can you provide proof of current general liability and workers’ comp insurance?
3. How long have you been in business locally?
4. Do you carry certifications from shingle manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed?
5. Can you provide written estimates and detailed scopes of work?
6. What kind of warranties do you offer for both workmanship and materials?

These aren’t just formalities. They’re filters. Contractors who check these boxes are far more likely to provide high-quality work and stand behind it.

At Rosie’s, we don’t just answer these questions—we welcome them. Transparency is baked into everything we do, from the first inspection to the final follow-up.

How Rosie’s Roofing and Restoration Stands Apart

We know how important it is to feel secure in your choice of roofing contractor. That’s why we’ve built our business around doing things the right way—not the fastest, not the cheapest, but the most thorough.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We’re fully insured and happy to provide documentation upon request.
• We hold elite certifications from GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed.
• We’ve been in business for over 14 years and maintain an A+ rating with the BBB.
• Our workmanship warranty goes up to 25 years when installed with manufacturer-backed systems.
• We operate transparently, with detailed estimates and no fine-print surprises.

You don’t need to gamble on a roofer. You just need one you can trust.

Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind Starts with the Right Roofing Partner

So, do roofers need a license in Georgia? Not always—but that doesn’t mean you should settle for anything less than a true professional. When it comes to your home, hiring a roofer in Atlanta is a decision that deserves your time and your questions.

Make sure the contractor you choose is licensed (when required), insured without exception, and committed to doing the job right the first time.

At Rosie’s Roofing and Restoration, we’re proud to be among the most trusted licensed roofers in Atlanta. If you’re ready for a straightforward, honest conversation about your roof, we’re here to help.

To schedule a consultation or request documentation of our insurance and certifications, reach out today. Call us today or email us at [email protected].

We’re ready when you are—because protecting your home starts at the top. And we can do it right.