Denver homeowners deal with hail, heavy snow, and rapid temperature swings, so hiring the right roofing contractor matters. Use the checklist below to compare Denver roofing companies confidently, avoid common scams, and protect your roof investment.
1) Start with licensing, but know how Colorado works
Colorado does not have a statewide roofing license requirement, so you will not find a single “Colorado roofing license” that applies everywhere. Licensing is typically handled at the city or county level, which means requirements can vary depending on where your home is located.
If you live in Denver, confirm the contractor is properly licensed through the City and County of Denver contractor licensing process.
What to do:
- Ask for the contractor’s license details for the jurisdiction where your home is located (Denver, Aurora, etc.).
- If you are in Denver, verify they can legally pull permits and complete work under Denver’s rules.
2) Verify insurance, not just “we’re insured”
A professional roofer should carry:
- General liability insurance (property damage coverage)
- Workers’ compensation (protects you if a worker is injured on your property)
What to do:
- Request a certificate of insurance and confirm it is current.
- Make sure the coverage is in the roofing company’s name (not a random subcontractor).
3) Look for local Denver experience that matches your roof type
A trustworthy Denver roofing contractor should be comfortable with:
- Storm damage assessments (hail and wind patterns vary by neighborhood)
- Steep pitches, complex roof lines, and common Denver-area ventilation needs
- Repair vs replacement decisions that fit your roof’s condition and age
What to do:
- Ask for recent local projects similar to your roof (shingles, metal, low-slope sections, etc.).
- Ask how they handle hidden damage found after tear-off (decking, flashing, ventilation).
4) Ask these questions during your consultation
These questions quickly reveal whether a contractor is organized and transparent:
- Can you provide a written scope of work that lists materials, underlayment, ventilation, flashing, cleanup, and disposal?
- What is your process for storm damage and insurance claims? (Do they document with photos, meet the adjuster, and explain the scope?)
- Who will be on-site daily? (Crew lead, project manager, communication expectations)
- What is included in your warranty and what is excluded? (Labor vs manufacturer warranty)
5) Watch for red flags that cost Denver homeowners money
Be cautious if you notice:
- Extremely low bids compared to others (often missing scope items like ventilation, flashing, or underlayment)
- Pressure tactics (“sign today or lose the deal”)
- Vague estimates with no line items
- No local presence or no clear way to contact them after the job
- Upfront payment demands that feel aggressive
A reputable contractor should give you time to review the agreement and answer questions clearly.
6) Understand permits and inspections in Denver
Permits are not just paperwork. They help ensure the job meets code and can reduce risk for homeowners.
Denver has specific guidance on when a roofing permit is required, including thresholds for certain roof repairs.
What to do: Ask your contractor if a permit is required for your scope, and confirm who is pulling it.
7) Review contract terms and warranties before you sign
Your contract should clearly state:
- Full scope of work and exact materials
- Start date range and estimated duration
- Cleanup expectations (magnet sweep, haul-off, property protection)
- Change order process if additional damage is discovered
- Payment schedule tied to milestones
For warranties, confirm:
- Manufacturer warranty coverage (materials)
- Labor warranty coverage (installation workmanship)
- How warranty claims are handled and who you contact
A practical way to compare roofers in Denver
When you get 2 to 3 proposals, compare these items side by side:
- Scope completeness (ventilation, flashing, underlayment, drip edge)
- Permits and code compliance
- Photo documentation and communication plan
- Insurance verification
- Warranty clarity
If one bid is missing key components, it is not truly cheaper.
Need a second opinion before you hire?
If you are on the Colorado Front Range, MTN Roofing can provide a free roof inspection with photo documentation and clear recommendations, whether you need repairs, replacement, or storm damage support.