How to Hire a Roofing Contractor in Ontario
Roofing is not a compulsory trade in Ontario, which means anyone can call themselves a roofer. This makes due diligence even more important. Look for manufacturer certifications (GAF, CertainTeed, IKO), WSIB coverage, and comprehensive liability insurance.
Ontario Roofing Licensing Requirements
No mandatory Ontario license, but look for certifications
Not a compulsory trade in Ontario, but reputable roofers carry liability insurance, WSIB, and manufacturer certifications (GAF, CertainTeed, IKO).
When to Hire a Roofing Contractor
- Your shingles are curling, cracking, or missing granules
- You see daylight through your roof boards from the attic
- Your roof is over 20 years old
- You have water stains on your ceiling after rain
- Your energy bills have increased (poor roof insulation)
- You see sagging in your roofline
- Storm damage (hail, wind, fallen branches)
Timeline: Most residential roof replacements take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity. Emergency repairs can often be done same-day.
Roofing Costs in Ontario (2026)
Prices are approximate for Ontario (CAD). Actual costs vary by city, scope, and season. Always get 3 written quotes.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
- 1Do you carry both WSIB and comprehensive liability insurance?
- 2What manufacturer certifications do you hold (GAF, CertainTeed, IKO)?
- 3Will you pull a building permit if required?
- 4Do you include ice and water shield, drip edge, and ridge vent?
- 5What is the warranty — both workmanship and manufacturer?
- 6How do you handle unexpected damage (rotten decking, etc.)?
- 7Will you remove the old roof or go over existing shingles?
Red Flags — When to Walk Away
- No liability insurance
- No WSIB
- No manufacturer warranty
- Door-to-door solicitation after storms
Homeowner Checklist — Before You Hire
- Get at least 3 written quotes for comparison
- Verify WSIB clearance certificate (protects YOU from liability)
- Check Google reviews AND ask for local references
- Confirm they will pull all required permits
- Never pay more than 10-15% deposit upfront
- Get everything in writing — scope, timeline, payment schedule
- Verify their business insurance is current
- For regulated trades (electrical, plumbing, gas), verify their license number
Payment: 10-15% deposit, progress payments tied to milestones, 10% holdback until completion. Ontario's Construction Act provides a 10% holdback right on construction projects.
Best Time to Hire a Roofing Contractor
Spring is peak booking season. Contact contractors in February for the best availability.
Summer is the busiest season. Prices are highest and wait times longest. Book early.
Fall is the sweet spot — contractors are less busy, prices drop, and you prepare for winter.
Winter is off-season for exterior work. Interior renovations get the best prices and fastest timelines.
How to Verify a Roofing Contractor in Ontario
Free online tool to verify any contractor's WSIB coverage status.
Verify contractor WSIB coverage before hiring — protects you from liability
Building code requirements for construction and renovation in Ontario
Searchable list of businesses with unresolved consumer complaints in Ontario.
Frequently Asked Questions — Hiring a Roofing in Ontario
- Do I need a licensed roofing contractor in Ontario?
- No mandatory Ontario license, but look for certifications
- How much does roofing work cost in Ontario?
- Shingle Replacement: $5,000-$15,000 (average home). Flat Roof: $4,000-$12,000 (per 1000 sqft). Repair: $300-$1,500 (per repair). Eavestrough: $800-$2,500 (full house). Prices are approximate and vary by region.
- How do I verify a roofing contractor in Ontario?
- Check WSIB coverage at wsib.ca. Check Google reviews and ask for references. Always get 3 written quotes.
- How much deposit should I pay a contractor?
- 10-15% deposit, progress payments tied to milestones, 10% holdback until completion. Ontario's Construction Act provides a 10% holdback right on construction projects.
- What are the red flags when hiring a roofing contractor?
- No liability insurance. No WSIB. No manufacturer warranty. Door-to-door solicitation after storms.
- What if I have a dispute with my contractor?
- Ontario Consumer Protection, Better Business Bureau, Small Claims Court (up to $35,000). Document everything and keep copies of all contracts and receipts.
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