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Are Roofers Required To Be Licensed In Mississippi?

Posted on October 24, 2024

Are Roofers Required To Be Licensed In Mississippi

If you’re considering a new roof or a replacement in Mississippi, there are a lot of things you need to keep in mind. And to ensure your project is done correctly, you need to hire a professional roofing company. 

Now, you’re probably asking yourself, “Who should I hire?” or “What should I look for in a roofer?” One big factor to consider is licensing. Licensing ensures that a contractor has the necessary skills and adheres to industry standards, offering some level of protection and accountability.

Though we always advise hiring a licensed roofer for your project, is this mandatory? The answer depends on where you live. So, are roofers required to be licensed in Mississippi? Yes! In this blog post, we will get into this topic in more detail, ensuring you understand the importance of hiring a licensed roofing contractor in Mississippi. 

Overview of Licensing for Roofers in the U.S.

Roofer

Licensing for roofing contractors varies across the United States. Some states have strict rules, requiring a license for any contractor, no matter the size or type of job, while others are more flexible. In most states, roofers must meet comprehensive licensing requirements, from exams to continued education and insurance. On the other hand, there are states with fewer regulations or requirements that apply only to larger projects.

In some cases, smaller states or those with lower population densities choose not to enforce roofing licenses as rigorously, leaving more flexibility to the homeowners. Mississippi falls somewhere in between. 

While not every roofing project requires a license, specific rules apply for jobs of a certain size. So, if you’re in Mississippi, it’s key to understand what’s required before signing any contract.

Mississippi Roofing License Requirements

According to the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC), the governing body of contractors in Mississippi, both residential and commercial roofing contractors need to obtain a license before they can start any roofing project. But some things depend on whether you are hiring a roofing contractor for a commercial or residential project. 

What Does The MSBOC Do? 

The MSBOC oversees contractor licensing in the state, ensuring that licensed contractors meet essential standards for work quality, financial stability, and insurance coverage. With the help of this board, you will also be able to verify the status of a contractor’s license.

Knowing that the MSBOC sets and monitors these standards can give you peace of mind that licensed contractors meet certain baseline qualifications and will provide quality work.

Mississippi Residential Roofing License Requirements

When we talk about residential roofing projects, a roofing license is mandatory for projects that exceed $10,000. This amount covers many roofing projects, especially full roof replacements, larger repairs, and new roof installations. If a roofer is offering a quote above this threshold, they must hold a license from the board. 

However, for smaller jobs under $10,000, roofers do not need to hold a state license. This regulation is good to know, as it affects smaller repairs and touch-up jobs.

New Construction

For any new residential construction with a value exceeding $50,000, state law requires a valid license. This ensures large-scale residential projects meet safety and quality standards.

Remodeling and Additions

Planning to update your home or add more space? When your remodeling project or addition costs more than $10,000, you’ll need to work with a licensed contractor. This applies to various improvements, from kitchen renovations to room additions.

Commercial Roofing License Requirements

For commercial roofs, the rules are different. According to MSBOC, your contractor needs to have a license if the project cost exceeds $50,000. This requirement extends beyond basic construction to include equipment installation work.

What Licensing Actually Means for Homeowners

So, why does roofing licensing matter for you as a homeowner? Here are a few critical reasons:

  • Legal Accountability: Licensed roofers are held to state standards and regulations. This can provide legal recourse if there are issues with the work performed.
  • Skill Verification: The license implies that the contractor has the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to perform long-lasting work. Essentially, they have met a standard you can trust.
  • Safety Codes: Licensed roofers are familiar with Mississippi’s building codes, safety requirements, and industry standards, which are crucial for a safe and lasting roof.
  • Insurance Requirements: Most licensed contractors carry insurance, which protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the project.

If you choose to work with an unlicensed roofer, these assurances may not apply. That’s not to say unlicensed contractors won’t do a decent job, but without the licensing safeguard, you’re exposed to higher risks. 

For peace of mind and quality control, it’s typically a safer choice to go with someone who has their licensing in order, especially for larger projects.

Questions to Ask Your Roofer About Licensing

Before signing with any roofer, it’s wise to have a conversation about licensing. Here’s a list of questions you can ask to make sure you’re on the same page:

  • Are you licensed for roofing work in Mississippi?
  • Is your license valid for the scope of my project?
  • Can I see a copy of your current license?
  • Is your work insured? Can you provide proof?
  • How do you stay up-to-date with Mississippi roofing codes and safety regulations?

Asking these questions not only helps you verify their qualifications but also shows that you’re serious about the quality and reliability of the work. A reputable roofer will be happy to provide this information and explain the licensing process to you if you have questions.

Final Thoughts 

In Mississippi, roofers need to be licensed for any residential project over $10,000, and that includes most substantial roofing jobs. Although licensing isn’t required for smaller projects, it’s often beneficial to hire a licensed professional regardless of the project’s size. A licensed roofer brings industry skills, accountability, and protections that are hard to guarantee otherwise.

How We Can Help

As you can see, hiring a licensed roofer is crucial to ensure the success of your roofing project. If you are looking to replace your roof and are looking for trusted roofing contractors in Mississippi, look no further than the team of B&A Roofing. We are fully licensed and insured and have been serving the area for years.  

When you choose us for your roofing project, you can expect these benefits: 

  • Assured Quality: Our licensed roofers have verified skills, ensuring you get a higher standard of work.
  • Warranty Protection: We’re certified installers of major roofing brands. We are GAF Master Elite® contractors, helping maintain your material warranties through proper installation. 
  • Insurance Protection: Our roofing contractors carry both liability insurance and workers’ compensation, protecting you from unexpected liability if an accident happens during the project.
  • Transparent Communication: From the initial quote to project completion, we provide clear documentation and regular updates.

If you’re ready to start your roofing project, contact us today at (601) 520-3183!

FAQ’s

A. Yes, Alabama does have a reciprocity agreement with Mississippi for contractor licensing, which includes roofing licenses. However, this reciprocity applies specifically to waiving the trade exam requirement for contractors who have held an active license for at least one consecutive year in good standing in Alabama.

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