Every legitimate roofer in California carries a state license with a C 39 roofing classification.
At a glance
- Check the license number on the state board site, not the truck.
- Ask for workers compensation proof, not just liability.
- A deposit over 1,000 dollars or 10 percent is against the law.
- A local address you can drive to says a lot.
The license
The Contractors State License Board publishes every license. Search the number or the business name and look for an active status, the C 39 roofing classification, the bond on file, and the workers compensation record.
A general B license can do roofing as part of a larger job, but for a roof only project you want C 39.
Insurance that protects you
Liability insurance covers damage to your property. Workers compensation covers an injured worker so the claim does not land on your homeowner policy.
Ask the insurer to send the certificate directly. A photo of a certificate on a phone proves nothing about whether the policy is still in force.
The money rules
California caps the down payment on a home improvement contract at one thousand dollars or ten percent of the contract price, whichever is less. Payments after that follow work completed.
A contract must be in writing, must list the license number, and must include a three day right to cancel.
The quiet signals
A local yard or office, a truck with the license number on it, a crew that speaks to you directly, photos of jobs in your own city, and reviews that mention the same crew names over years all point the same direction.
Door knocking right after a storm, high pressure to sign today, and a bid far below the others point the other way.
Common questions
What does C 39 mean
It is the state classification for roofing contractors. It is the one to look for on a roof job.
Is a bond the same as insurance
No. A bond is a small guarantee that pays limited claims. Insurance covers damage and injuries.
How do I file a complaint
The state license board takes complaints against licensed contractors and against unlicensed operators.