How to Choose a Roofing Contractor in Illinois (Without Getting Burned)

A roof replacement is one of the largest investments you'll make in your home — typically $10,000–$20,000 or more. Choosing the wrong contractor can cost you significantly more: failed installations, voided warranties, unpaid subcontractors placing liens on your home, or simply disappearing with a deposit after a storm.

Illinois has specific contractor licensing requirements, and the roofing industry in particular attracts more than its share of bad actors, especially in the weeks following a major hail or wind event. Here's how to protect yourself.

The 7-Point Contractor Vetting Checklist

1. Verify Illinois Licensing

Illinois requires roofing contractors to hold a valid contractor license from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Ask for the contractor's license number and verify it at idfpr.illinois.gov. Any contractor who can't produce their license number immediately is a red flag.

2. Confirm Insurance — General Liability and Workers' Comp

Your contractor must carry both general liability insurance (covering property damage) and workers' compensation insurance (covering injuries to workers on your property). Ask for a certificate of insurance naming you as an additional insured. Call the insurance company directly to verify the policy is active — certificates can be forged or printed from expired policies.

If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you may be liable. This is not a theoretical risk.

3. Verify a Local Physical Address

"Storm chaser" companies typically operate out of a temporary office or simply a phone number and rental truck. Ask for a physical business address and verify it exists. A contractor based in Orland Park, Naperville, or a nearby suburb has a reputation in your community to protect — and will be here when you need warranty service in 5 years.

4. Check Reviews — and Read the Negative Ones

Look up the company on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Don't just look at the star rating — read the 1-star and 2-star reviews. Patterns of complaints about communication, incomplete work, or billing disputes tell you more than a handful of glowing reviews. Be skeptical of contractors with only 5-star reviews and very few total reviews.

5. Get a Detailed Written Quote

Any legitimate contractor will provide a written quote that specifies: the exact shingle product, line, and color; the number of layers being torn off; whether ice & water shield is included and how far it extends; what the warranty covers and who backs it; and the permit process. A quote that just says "new roof — $12,500" with no specifications is not a quote you should sign.

6. Never Pay More Than 10–15% Upfront

Material deposits are standard — most legitimate contractors ask for 10–15% upfront to order materials. A contractor who demands 50% or full payment before work begins is a significant risk. Pay the remainder in two stages: one when materials arrive and work begins, and the final balance only after the work is complete and you've inspected the finished roof.

7. Do Not Sign an Assignment of Benefits

After a storm, some contractors will ask you to sign an "Assignment of Benefits" (AOB) document that transfers your insurance claim rights directly to the contractor. Once you sign an AOB, you lose control of your own claim — the contractor negotiates directly with your insurer, often inflating the scope, and your insurer may then refuse to pay you directly for anything. Never sign an AOB without consulting an attorney.

Questions to Ask Before Signing

• Are you licensed in Illinois? What is your license number?
• Can you provide a certificate of insurance today?
• Do you use your own employees or subcontractors?
• Who will be on-site managing my project?
• Will you pull the permit with the village/city?
• What is your warranty, and who backs it — you or the manufacturer?
• Do you have references from projects in this area in the last 12 months?

Warning Signs of a Bad Contractor

• Knocked on your door unsolicited right after a storm
• Offers a suspiciously low price "if you sign today"
• Can't or won't show you a license or insurance certificate
• No local address or permanent phone number
• Asks you to sign over your insurance rights (AOB)
• Negative patterns in online reviews about disappearing after deposit
• Uses high-pressure tactics or "today only" pricing

Choosing a roofing contractor doesn't have to be stressful. Do your due diligence, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts. A contractor who is transparent, licensed, insured, and has a strong local reputation will always be willing to answer every question on this list. Learn why Orland Park homeowners trust AJ Roofing.

AJ Roofing — 16308 S. 107th Ave, Suite #5, Orland Park, IL 60467. Call (630) 313-9805.