Short answer: look them up on the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry’s free lookup. Go to the DLI iMS license lookup, choose “Continue as guest,” then search by license number or business name. Minnesota law requires anyone doing residential roofing for hire to be licensed as a residential roofer, building contractor or remodeler, so a legitimate roofer will have a license you can find.
Step by step: the DLI license lookup
- Go to ims.dli.mn.gov.
- Click Continue as guest.
- Enter the contractor’s full license number, or use Search License/Registration holders to search by name.
- Confirm the license is active and that the business name matches the company on your contract.
If you get stuck, DLI’s lookup instructions walk through it, and DLI’s help line is 651-284-5034.
Who needs a roofing license in Minnesota?
Under Minnesota Statutes 326B.805, anyone who meets the definition of a residential roofer must be licensed as a residential roofer, building contractor or remodeler. There are a few exceptions, according to DLI: roofing subcontractors register rather than license, small contractors under $15,000 a year in gross receipts can hold a certificate of exemption, and homeowners working on their own home don’t need a license.
What a license means for you
- Testing, insurance and a bond. According to DLI, a residential roofer license requires passing an exam, carrying $300,000 in liability insurance and a $15,000 bond.
- Access to the Contractor Recovery Fund. If a licensed contractor fails to perform, homeowners may be able to recover some losses through DLI’s Contractor Recovery Fund. DLI lists the cap at $550,000 per licensee.
- Permits. Most cities require a state license to issue a roofing permit to a contractor.
Other ways to vet a roofer
- Check the BBB. Look at the rating and how the company responds to complaints, not just the stars.
- Look for a local address. A company with a real Minnesota office is easier to reach if something goes wrong.
- Get a written, itemized estimate. Minnesota law requires one for repairs paid through an insurance claim.
- Be wary of pressure. A good roofer will give you time to compare quotes. See your rights when a roofer knocks on your door.
Frequently asked questions
Do roofers need a license in Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota Statutes 326B.805 requires residential roofers to be licensed as a residential roofer, building contractor or remodeler, with limited exceptions.
What is Ascension Roofing & Siding’s license number?
Our Minnesota license number is BC753558. We’re also licensed in Wisconsin (DC122301608).
What insurance does a Minnesota roofer need?
According to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, a residential roofer license requires $300,000 in liability insurance and a $15,000 bond.
Looking for a licensed roofer? Call (763) 333-7663 or schedule a free, no-pressure inspection.
