How roofing licences work in North Carolina
North Carolina licenses roofers through the same board that licenses general contractors. Here's what that means for you.
Who licenses roofers
The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) licenses contractors under Chapter 87 of the North Carolina General Statutes. Roofing falls under its specialty classification. To get licensed, a contractor passes an exam covering business and law plus roofing-specific material.
When a licence is required
A licence is required for projects at or above the dollar threshold in G.S. 87-1. Multiple sources report it was raised from $30,000 to $40,000; confirm the current figure on the board's website. Many repairs fall below it; most full replacements on larger homes and nearly all commercial jobs are at or above it.
Licence tiers
| Tier | What it allows |
|---|---|
| Limited | Smaller projects, up to the limit set for the tier |
| Intermediate | Mid-size projects |
| Unlimited | Any project size |
Splitting a job
Breaking one project into smaller contracts to stay under the threshold is unlicensed contracting, a Class 1 misdemeanor under state law. If a roofer suggests it, that's a reason to look elsewhere.
Insurance
Separately from licensing, roofing contractors should carry liability insurance. Ask for the certificate.
How to check a roofer
- Get the company's legal name.
- Search it on the NCLBGC website.
- Check the licence classification and tier against the size of your job.
- Ask for proof of liability insurance.
South Carolina
For Rock Hill, Fort Mill and other York County addresses, North Carolina's board doesn't apply. South Carolina has its own rules; ask the contractor which apply to your job.
Quick questions
Does every roof repair need a licensed contractor?
Not legally, if the job is below the state threshold. But a licensed, insured roofer is still the safer choice.
Where do I check a licence?
On the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors website.
What is the specialty classification?
The board's classification that covers roofing, among other specialties.
Do licences from other states count in North Carolina?
No. Work in North Carolina requires a North Carolina licence when the threshold is met.