Published by Ark Design Construction & Roofing · Updated November 6, 2026
Before you hire a roofer in California, check that their contractor license is active on the state license board's website, ask for proof of insurance, get a written estimate and contract, understand the payment terms, and ask who will actually do the work. A roofer who will not put it in writing is a warning sign.
1. Check the license
In California, roofing work on most jobs requires a licensed contractor. Look up the license on the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website at cslb.ca.gov. Confirm the name matches, the license is active, and it covers roofing. Ark’s license number is 632117.
2. Ask for proof of insurance
Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation. If a worker is hurt on your property and the contractor is not insured, that can become your problem.
3. Get a written estimate and contract
A good estimate says what will be done, which materials and brands will be used, what the price is, and when work should start and finish. Ask what happens with surprises, like rotted decking found after the old roof comes off.
4. Understand the payment terms
California law limits down payments on home improvement contracts. It is generally the lesser of 10 percent of the price or $1,000, and the CSLB can confirm current rules. Be wary of anyone asking for large payments up front or full payment before the work is done. Ark asks for no money up front: payment is due when the work is complete, or on a draw schedule for larger projects, as agreed at the start.
5. Ask who does the work
Some roofing companies use their own crews and some hire subcontractors. Ask who will be on your roof and who will be responsible for it.
6. Ask about warranties
Ask for both the manufacturer’s warranty on the materials and the contractor’s warranty on the workmanship, in writing. Ask what voids them.
7. Look at reviews and past work
Check Google reviews, and ask to see jobs similar to yours. Ark’s reviews are on Google, and you can see recent work on our home page.
8. Compare like with like
Get at least two written estimates for the same scope. Differences in price should be explainable by differences in materials, scope or warranty.
How Ark works
Ark is a family business founded in 1991, a GAF Master Roofing Contractor and PABCO PreferredPro, with free estimates. Call (530) 547-3890.
Common questions
How do I check a contractor's license in California?
Use the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website at cslb.ca.gov. You can look up a license number and see whether it is active. Ark's California contractor license number is 632117.
How much can a contractor ask for as a down payment?
California law limits down payments on home improvement contracts. As of this guide, it is generally the lesser of 10 percent of the contract price or $1,000. Check the CSLB's consumer guidance for current rules. Ark asks for no money up front.
Should I take the lowest bid?
Be careful. Compare the same scope, materials and warranty, not just the total. A very low bid can mean cheaper materials, a smaller scope or corners cut.
Get a free estimate
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Serving Redding, Palo Cedro, Burney, Mt. Shasta, Yreka, Chester and Weaverville.