How to Hire a Roofer in Orlando, FL (2025 Guide)
Hiring the right roofer in Orlando is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a homeowner. Florida's roofing market is flooded with out-of-state contractors after storms, unlicensed operators, and high-pressure salespeople. This guide helps you hire a qualified, licensed roofer who will do the job right.
Key Takeaways
- Always verify a Florida roofing contractor license (CCC or CBC) through the DBPR
- Get at least 3 written quotes before signing anything
- Never pay more than 10–20% upfront — full payment before completion is a red flag
- Your contractor must pull the permit — never pull it yourself
- Be especially cautious of door-to-door roofers after storms
Step 1: Verify Licensing and Insurance
Florida requires roofing contractors to hold either a Certified Roofing Contractor (CCC) or Certified Building Contractor (CBC) license from the Florida DBPR. Verify at myfloridalicense.com in under 2 minutes.
Require proof of general liability ($1M+) and workers' compensation insurance. If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor lacks workers' comp, you can be held liable. Ask for certificates of insurance naming you as an additional insured.
Local Orange County contractors who have been in business for 5+ years are generally more reliable than out-of-state contractors who flood the market after hurricanes.
Step 2: Get Multiple Written Quotes
Get at least 3 written quotes. A legitimate roofing quote should specify: exact materials (manufacturer, product line), scope of work (tear-off, underlayment, flashing), warranty terms, permit process, and payment schedule.
Be wary of quotes significantly lower than others — this often means inferior materials or skipped steps. In Orlando's hurricane-prone climate, cutting corners on roofing is particularly dangerous.
Don't automatically choose the lowest bid. A slightly higher bid with better materials and a longer workmanship warranty is almost always the better value.
Step 3: Understand the Contract and Payment Terms
Never sign a contract you haven't read in full. A legitimate roofing contract should include: detailed scope of work, material specifications, start and completion dates, payment schedule, warranty terms, and what happens if additional work is needed.
Payment terms: A deposit of 10–20% is standard. Never pay more than 50% before work begins, and never pay the final balance until the job is complete and the permit is closed.
In Florida, you have the right to a Notice of Commencement for any project over $2,500. This protects you from mechanic's liens if the contractor doesn't pay their suppliers.
Hiring Checklist
- Verified Florida CCC or CBC license on DBPR website
- Confirmed active general liability insurance ($1M+)
- Confirmed active workers' compensation insurance
- Received at least 3 written, itemized quotes
- Checked Google reviews (50+ reviews, 4.5+ rating)
- Called at least 2 local references
- Confirmed contractor will pull the permit
- Reviewed and understood the full contract
- Payment schedule is reasonable (10–20% deposit)
- Warranty terms clearly specified in writing
Red Flags to Avoid
- Door-to-door solicitation immediately after a storm
- Asks you to pull the permit yourself
- Requires full payment upfront
- No physical business address
- Cannot provide proof of insurance
- Significantly lower bid than all other quotes
- Pressures you to sign immediately
- No written contract
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify a roofer's license in Florida?
Visit myfloridalicense.com and search by contractor name or license number. Look for an active CCC or CBC license.
Should I use my insurance company's preferred roofer?
You have the right to choose your own contractor in Florida. Get your own quotes and choose the contractor you trust.
How many quotes should I get for a roof replacement?
Get at least 3 written quotes to understand market pricing and identify outliers.
What is a reasonable deposit for a roof replacement?
A deposit of 10–20% is standard. Never pay more than 50% before work begins.
Can a roofer start work without a permit in Orlando?
No. A roofing permit is required for full replacements in Orange County. Work without a permit voids your homeowners insurance.