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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.

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Check the qualifications that matter for your work

Ask what qualifications, insurance and approvals are relevant to your particular job. Verify the details with the issuing organisation. Being listed here is not a licence check or an endorsement.

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)

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 for Ontario (CAD). Actual costs vary by city, scope, and season. Always get 3 written quotes.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

  1. 1Do you carry both WSIB and comprehensive liability insurance?
  2. 2What manufacturer certifications do you hold (GAF, CertainTeed, IKO)?
  3. 3Will you pull a building permit if required?
  4. 4Do you include ice and water shield, drip edge, and ridge vent?
  5. 5What is the warranty — both workmanship and manufacturer?
  6. 6How do you handle unexpected damage (rotten decking, etc.)?
  7. 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

springMarch — May

Spring is peak booking season. Contact contractors in February for the best availability.

summerJune — AugustRelevant

Summer is the busiest season. Prices are highest and wait times longest. Book early.

fallSeptember — NovemberRelevant

Fall is the sweet spot — contractors are less busy, prices drop, and you prepare for winter.

winterDecember — February

Winter is off-season for exterior work. Interior renovations get the best prices and fastest timelines.

How to Verify a Roofing Contractor in Ontario

Frequently Asked Questions — Hiring a Roofing in Ontario

How are listings ordered?
Owner-claimed listings come first, then profile completeness and name. Sponsored placements are labelled and do not change the organic order.
Does a listing mean NSO endorses a business?
No. Check that the business offers what you need. Ask about relevant qualifications, insurance and licensing, and confirm those details with the business or issuing organisation.
How do I compare options?
Read the recorded business details, ask about availability and request a quote for your actual requirements. Confirm the scope and price before booking.
What if a business is missing or its details are wrong?
Use Add a missing business or Claim an existing listing. These are reviewed requests; they do not automatically publish a record or verify ownership.

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Ready to Find a Roofing Contractor?

Browse 358 listed roofing contractors in our directory. Read the recorded business details and confirm your requirements.

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