Roofing contractors pay the highest workers' compensation rates of any trade — sometimes 25–40% of payroll — and face OSHA fines starting at $15,625 per violation. Getting the compliance side right from day one protects everything you build.

• ✓State roofing or GC license requirements
  Some states require a specific roofing license; others require a general contractor license. Many states have NO roofing license requirement — but local jurisdictions often do. Check both state AND city.
• ✓Business entity formation (LLC + EIN)
  Roofing contractors face frequent liability claims. Form an LLC before your first job. Filing fees: $50–$500 by state. EIN from IRS is free and instant online.
• ✓City and county business license
  Required in most municipalities. Cost: $50–$400/yr. Some counties require additional contractor registration permits on top of the city license.
• ✓General Liability + Workers' Comp insurance
  GL minimum $1M. Roofers pay the highest workers' comp rates of any trade (class code 5551): often 20–40% of payroll. Expect $4,000–$15,000+ in Year 1 insurance costs.
• ✓OSHA Fall Protection compliance
  Required by law on any roof 6 feet or more. OSHA 1926.502 covers harnesses, guardrails, safety nets. Violations start at $15,625. OSHA 10 certification strongly recommended.
• ✓Surety bond requirements
  Bond amounts vary widely: $5,000–$50,000 by state and contract type. Annual premium: 1–3% of bond amount. Some storm restoration work requires specific bonding thresholds.
• ✓Storm damage and insurance claim work rules
  Many states have specific laws governing public adjuster relationships, storm chaser solicitation, and insurance assignment of benefits (AOB). Know your state's rules before doing any insurance restoration work.
• ✓ Your first 90-day action plan
  Week-by-week: from zero to licensed to first paying customer.