Hiring a roofing contractor is one of the most important decisions a homeowner in New Orleans can make. With the rise in storm damage repairs and insurance claims, the roofing industry has unfortunately seen an increase in unlicensed contractors and scams. Whether you need a minor roof repair or a complete replacement, knowing how to verify the legitimacy of a New Orleans roofing contractor ensures that your home is in the right hands. In this 2025 homeowner’s guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to avoid shady contractors and select a trusted professional for your roofing project.

How to Verify the Legitimacy of a New Orleans Roofing Contractor: Best 2025 Guide for Homeowners

Why It’s Crucial To Choose A Legitimate Roofing Contractor

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against Louisiana’s unpredictable weather—from hurricanes and heavy rain to strong winds and heat. A poor roofing job can lead to:

Water leaks and structural damage
Mold and mildew growth
Voided warranties and denied insurance claims
Safety hazards for your family

By hiring a licensed and insured roofing contractor, you protect both your investment and your peace of mind.

1. Check For A Valid Louisiana Contractor’s License

In the state of Louisiana, any contractor performing commercial or residential work valued at $7,500 or more must be licensed by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC).

Here’s how to verify:

Visit the official LSLBC website
Use the contractor search tool to check license status, classifications, and complaint history

Make sure the license is:

Active and current
Covers residential roofing or home improvement classifications
Issued to the specific company or person doing the work

Tip: Beware of subcontractors working under someone else’s license—that’s a red flag.

2. Verify Insurance Coverage

A reputable New Orleans roofing contractor should carry both:

General Liability Insurance: Covers property damage during the job
Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Protects you from liability if a crew member is injured on your property

Always ask for proof of insurance and verify with the provider that the coverage is current and sufficient.

3. Look For Local Experience And A Physical Address

Storm chasers and out-of-town contractors often flood cities like New Orleans after major weather events. These companies may offer quick, low-cost repairs but vanish when issues arise.

Choose a roofing contractor who:

Has a physical office in or near New Orleans
Has served the local community for several years
Is familiar with regional building codes and weather conditions

4. Read Online Reviews And Ratings

Check platforms like:

Google My Business
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Facebook and Yelp

Look for consistent positive feedback, especially regarding:

Quality of work
Communication and professionalism
Timeliness and cleanup
Handling of insurance claims

Warning Signs:

No online presence
Fake reviews or generic testimonials
Multiple name changes or different business aliases

5. Ask For References And Past Project Photos

A legitimate contractor will proudly share:

Names and numbers of past clients
Before-and-after photos of roofing projects
A portfolio of work done in your area (e.g., Uptown New Orleans, Metairie, or the Garden District)

Contact 2-3 references and ask:

Was the work completed on time and within budget?
Were there any surprises or issues?
Would you hire them again?

6. Review The Contract Carefully

Before you sign anything:

Ensure the scope of work is detailed and itemized
Confirm timelines, materials, and payment schedules
Make sure warranty terms (labor and materials) are clearly stated

Never agree to large upfront payments. A deposit of 10–30% is standard, with the remainder due upon project milestones or completion.

7. Avoid “Too Good To Be True” Offers

Scammers often use tactics like:

Door-to-door sales after storms
“We have leftover materials from a nearby job”
High-pressure sales or “today only” discounts

Trust your instincts. If the offer feels off or too rushed, it’s best to walk away.

Conclusion: Protect Your Roof And Your Investment

Learning how to verify the legitimacy of a New Orleans roofing contractor in 2025 is more than due diligence—it’s a safeguard against costly mistakes and stress. By following these steps, you can feel confident that the roofer you hire is trustworthy, skilled, and qualified to protect your home.

At Simplex Roof, we are fully licensed, insured, and proud to serve homeowners across New Orleans and neighboring communities. With transparent pricing, expert craftsmanship, and local experience, we’re committed to raising the standard in roofing.

Need a trusted roofing partner? Contact Simplex Roof today for a free consultation and inspection. Your home deserves the best—starting at the top.