12:12Before you sign
Choosing a Roofer and Reading a Roofing Bid
Check the license first: California licenses roofers under the C-39 classification. Then compare bids that price the same scope, line by line. The cheapest total often leaves out decking, flashing or the permit.
Questions about a bid? Call (925) 281-5910
12:12License
Check the license, bond and workers' comp
CSLB describes the C-39 roofing contractor as one who "installs products and repairs surfaces that seal, waterproof and weatherproof structures," working with materials from asphalt and felt to metal roofing systems, shakes, shingles, roof tile and slate (CSLB C-39).
The CSLB license lookup shows whether the license is active, its classifications, the contractor's bond and whether workers' compensation is on file or the contractor claims an exemption. A roofing crew with employees and no workers' comp policy is a risk to you.
3:12Contract basics
California contract rules
- Down payment: no more than 10% of the price or $1,000, whichever is less (CSLB).
- Get the contract in writing, with the scope, materials, start and finish dates, and payment schedule.
- Progress payments should not get ahead of the work completed.
6:12Read the bid
What a good roofing bid spells out
| Line item | A clear bid says | Be careful if |
|---|---|---|
| Tear-off | All existing layers removed to the deck, with layer count stated | "Overlay" or no mention of what comes off |
| Decking | Per-sheet price and an allowance for replacement sheathing | "Decking as needed" with no price |
| Underlayment | Product named; extra protection at valleys; two layers on 2:12–4:12 slopes | Generic "felt" |
| Flashing | New flashing at walls, chimneys, skylights, pipes; drip edge | "Reuse existing flashing" |
| Ventilation | Ridge and intake vents specified and balanced | Nothing about attic ventilation |
| Product | Manufacturer, line and color; cool-roof rating; Class A listing where required | Just "30-year shingle" |
| Permit | Contractor pulls the permit; fee included; inspections scheduled | Asks you to pull it, or "no permit needed" |
| Cleanup | Daily cleanup, magnetic nail sweeps, debris haul-off | Not mentioned |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty and a separate written workmanship warranty | Verbal promises only |
| Payments | Small down payment; progress payments tied to work done | Large deposit before materials arrive |
8:12Red flags
Red flags in roofing
- Storm chasers. Door-knockers after a windstorm, out-of-area trucks, pressure to sign the same day.
- Big deposits. Anything above California's down-payment limit.
- No permit. "We don't need one for a re-roof" is wrong here.
- Vague decking clauses. "Replace wood as needed" without a per-sheet price invites surprises.
- Insurance promises. Nobody can promise what your insurer will pay.
- No license number on the bid, or one that doesn't match the company name.
5:12Warranties
Manufacturer vs. workmanship warranty
The manufacturer warranty covers defects in the product, and often requires installation to the manufacturer's instructions. The workmanship warranty comes from the roofer and covers installation errors such as flashing leaks. Get both in writing and note how long each lasts and who honors it if the company closes.
Next: compare your bid to cost ranges · permit rules · contact
3:12FAQ
Questions homeowners ask
How can you tell if a roofer is lying?
Watch for claims you can't verify: damage you can't see in photos, "the permit isn't needed," a price that only holds today, or an insurance outcome promised in advance. Ask for photos of problems found on the roof, an itemized bid, and the license number, then check it with CSLB.
How much deposit should a roofer ask for?
For home improvement contracts in California, the down payment can't exceed 10% of the contract price or $1,000, whichever is less (CSLB). After that, payments should track the work completed.
Do I need a C-39 roofing license?
Roofing work is licensed under the C-39 classification. General building contractors (B license) can take roofing as part of a larger job; for a stand-alone re-roof, look for a C-39 on the CSLB lookup.
12:12Quote
Compare a bid from a local roofer
Calling is the quickest way to talk through a bid you already have. Or send your details and a local roofing contractor can call to schedule an inspection.
- Composition, tile, flat and metal roofs
- Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Orinda, Danville and nearby
- Prefer to talk? (925) 281-5910