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Roofing in Chicago, IL: how to find a good roofer

Need a roofer in Chicago (Cook County)? Here is what local homeowners usually hire for, the signs you shouldn't ignore, and a checklist for vetting roofers before you sign.

What Chicago homeowners hire roofers for

• Shingle repair and full roof replacement
• Storm, hail and wind damage inspections
• Gutters, flashing and ice-dam prevention
• Flat-roof membranes for bungalows and two-flats
• Skylights and attic ventilation

Signs you need a roofer

• Missing, curling or granule-shedding shingles
• Water stains on ceilings after a thaw or heavy rain
• Ice dams along the eaves in January and February
• A roof over 20 years old, or visible sagging

Checklist: vetting a roofer in Chicago

1. Ask for their Illinois roofing contractor license number. Illinois licenses roofers through IDFPR, and you can look it up on the IDFPR license lookup site.
2. Get proof of liability insurance and workers' comp.
3. Get a written estimate that lists materials, tear-off, disposal and permit costs.
4. Ask who pulls the permit. Most municipalities need one for re-roofing.
5. Get the manufacturer and workmanship warranties in writing.
6. Ask the Chicago building department whether the job needs a permit and an inspection.

Chicagoland roofers book up after spring hail and summer storms. Late summer and early fall usually make scheduling easier.

Nearby

Roofing near Chicago: Evanston · Oak Park · Cicero · Skokie

More in Chicago: HVAC in Chicago · Plumbing in Chicago