Roofing is a non-compulsory trade under Skilled Trades Ontario. Roofers are not legally required to hold a Certificate of Qualification to operate. Some obtain one voluntarily as a mark of training. Focus your vetting on WSIB clearance, liability insurance, business registration, and references instead.
Yes. Ontario homeowners can check clearance status online through WSIB's eClearance system. Search by business name, download the clearance, and confirm it is current and matches the legal name on the quote. Do not rely solely on a paper copy the contractor provides.
An overlay installs new shingles directly over the existing layer. It costs less upfront but hides the condition of the roof deck, adds structural weight, and may void some manufacturer warranties. A tear-off strips everything to the deck, allows inspection and repair, and gives the new system a clean foundation. Most Canadian building codes limit roofs to two layers total.
The manufacturer's material warranty — covering defects in the shingles and components — is issued by the manufacturer and survives regardless. The workmanship warranty, covering installation quality, is issued by the contractor and dies with the company. That is why the length and financial stability behind the workmanship warranty matters when choosing a roofer.
No. Paying cash eliminates your paper trail, voids your recourse for poor workmanship, and exposes you to liability if a worker is injured on your property. The Government of Canada's consumer guidance states that if there is an incident and you have no contract, your homeowner's insurance may not protect you.
It depends on what the contract says. Many municipalities require permits for roof replacement or major repair. The contract should state who confirms the requirement, who applies, and whether the fee is included. Regardless of the contract, the ultimate responsibility rests with you as the homeowner.
At least three written quotes, each pricing the same scope. The number matters less than the comparability. A significantly lower quote usually means something was left out, not that you found a bargain.
A construction lien is a legal claim that an unpaid subcontractor or supplier can register against your property title. Even if you have paid your roofer in full, their unpaid suppliers can lien your home. A registered lien is public record and can block refinancing, selling, or accessing equity until resolved. Holdbacks and lien waivers are your primary defences.
The additional or altered work described clearly, the reason for the change, the cost, the payment terms, and both signatures. Never approve scope changes verbally. Photos of the issue should accompany every change order.
RenoMark is a program run through the Canadian Home Builders' Association. Members must follow a Code of Conduct, provide a minimum two-year warranty, maintain a safe job site, and use a written contract. It is not a guarantee of quality, but it establishes a professional baseline that is useful when comparing contractors.
Most standard residential re-roofs (1,200–1,800 square feet of roof area) take one to three days with a crew of four to six people in cooperative weather. Complex roofs take longer. Your contractor should provide a timeline in the quote and communicate weather delays promptly.
