Denver Colorado Digs Out After Devastating Hailstorm Leaves City Battered

Why are hailstorms profitable to roofers?

Hailstorms are profitable for roofers for a few reasons:

• Increased Demand: Hailstorms cause widespread damage to roofs, creating a sudden surge in demand for roof repairs and replacements. Many homeowners may not have noticed minor damage until a hailstorm exposes leaks or weakens existing issues.
• Higher Project Value: Hail damage often necessitates a full roof replacement, which is a larger and more expensive project compared to patching a minor leak. This translates to higher overall revenue for roofers.
• Insurance Coverage: Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage. This allows roofers to work directly with insurance companies, streamlining the payment process and guaranteeing payment for their services.
• Urgency for Repairs: Hail damage can leave roofs vulnerable to leaks and further weather damage. Homeowners are often motivated to get repairs done quickly, which can lead to roofers being able to charge premium rates for quicker service.

However, it’s important to note that not all aspects of a hailstorm boom are positive:

• Increased Competition: The surge in demand attracts more roofers to the area, which can lead to increased competition and potentially drive down prices for individual jobs.
• Unethical Practices: Unfortunately, some unscrupulous roofers may take advantage of the situation by pressuring homeowners into unnecessary repairs or inflating damage assessments. Homeowners should be cautious and get multiple estimates before committing to a repair.

Overall, hailstorms present a significant opportunity for roofers, but it’s a market with both benefits and drawbacks.

What can I do to become a roofer in Colorado?

Colorado’s requirements for becoming a roofer are different from most states. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps to take:

Licensing vs. Business License:

• Unlike many states, Colorado doesn’t require a specific roofing contractor license.

• You will, however, need a business license issued by two Colorado municipalities where you plan to operate.

  • These municipalities may have their own testing requirements for obtaining the business license.

     

Most municipalities require you to have passed an ICC F14 exam to provide roofing work in Colorado.  Contractor Practice Exam has a plethora of resources for you to get knowledge and practice you need to pass your ICC F14 exam.

Denver has it’s own requirements to be able to perform roofing, here’s a quick rundown:

1. Supervisor Certificate First: It’s a two-step process. One person from your company needs to obtain a supervisor certificate related to construction, specifically the Specialty Class D – Roofing (you’ll find details on their website).
2. Then Apply for a Contractor License: Once the supervisor certificate is approved, your company can apply for a contractor’s license.

For all the details:

Head over to this website https://denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Agencies-Departments-Offices-Directory/Community-Planning-and-Development/Contractor-Licensing and review the “Certificates – Construction – Specialty Class D” section. You’ll find all the requirements and instructions to get started.

Important Qualifications:

• Even without a mandatory license, there are essential qualifications for reputable roofers:
  • Proof of Worker’s Compensation Coverage: Documentation reflecting roofing or sheet metal classifications is required.
  • General Liability Insurance: A certificate showing at least $500,000 in general liability protection is necessary.
  • National Exam: While not mandatory, evidence of passing a nationally recognized exam on residential or commercial property roofing work demonstrates expertise.

Additional Considerations:

• Building Permits: Always obtain the necessary permits before starting any roofing project. Permit requirements vary by locality, so check with your city or county building department.
• Colorado Roofing Association Membership: Consider joining the Colorado Roofing Association (CRA). This demonstrates professionalism and commitment to the industry.
• Reputation and Customer Service: Building a strong reputation for quality work and excellent customer service is crucial for success in any roofing business.