How to Qualify a Contractor in Utah

Ready to find the perfect professional? Click below to access our expert guide on choosing the right contractor.

Avoid Scams. Choose Smart. Hire Right.

In Utah, construction-related scams and lawsuits are at an all-time high. Many homeowners have lost thousands to unlicensed, uninsured, or dishonest contractors. Don’t let that be you.

At Patriot Roofing & Construction, we believe every homeowner deserves to feel secure and confident when choosing a contractor. That’s why we created this guide to help you make informed, safe decisions before signing any contract or handing over a single dollar.

Here’s what you need to do…

Step 1: Check the Contractor’s License

Verify the contractor is licensed by visiting the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL): Utah Licensee Lookup Tool

Search the contractor’s name, then click to view the following details:

License Status: Should say Active
License Type: Should match the scope of work (e.g., “Contractor with LRF”)
Disciplinary History: Look for citations or violations

Example: Patriot Roofing & Construction

License #: 10373533-5501
Status: Active

No disciplinary actions since licensing in 2017

Step 2: Confirm Insurance Coverage

Ask for two documents:

Certificate of Liability Insurance
Certificate of Workers’ Comp Insurance

Then:

Check that both are current (not expired)
Call the insurance provider to confirm active coverage
Make sure the contractor’s name matches the name on their license

If they delay, make excuses, or can’t provide proof — that’s a red flag.

Need help? Call DOPL at 801-530-6630.

Step 3: Read Their Reviews

Look up their Google reviews (and others if available).

Pay close attention to:

Recent reviews. Focus on the last 6–12 months
Overly vague feedback. These might be fake or paid
Ownership changes. Even good reviews from years ago may not reflect current performance

Look for comments about communication, workmanship, and cleanup.

Step 4: Ask About Supplier Liens

Did you know a supplier can file a lien on your home if your contractor doesn’t pay their bill?

To protect yourself:

Ask who their material suppliers are
Call those suppliers to check on the contractor’s payment history
Request a Conditional Lien Waiver before each payment you make
Ask for an Unconditional Lien Waiver upon final payment

These lien waivers are free and available through DOPL.

Step 5: Ask Who’s Doing the Work

Find out if the roofing crew is made up of:

W-2 employees are hired and managed directly by the company
Subcontractors are independent crews hired per project

Both are legal, but:

W-2 employees offer more consistency and accountability
Subcontractors can vary in quality and oversight

Ask how quality control is handled, and who will be on your property.

Step 6: Look for Manufacturer Certifications

These certifications show the contractor meets high standards in installation, training, and customer service — and can offer extended warranties other contractors can’t.

Patriot Roofing & Construction is certified by:

✔️ GAF Master Elite Contractor

✔️ Owens Corning Preferred Contractor

✔️ CertainTeed ShingleMaster

✔️ VELUX Certified Installer

These certifications aren’t easy to get. They’re awarded to contractors who consistently do things right.

Step 7: Don’t Be Fooled

If your contractor:

Refuses to answer your questions
Can’t provide documents
Pushes back on verification
Delays giving you names of suppliers or insurance contacts

That’s a red flag!

If you suspect a contractor is being dishonest or unethical, report it IMMEDIATELY.

📞 DOPL Enforcement Office: 801-530-6630

🌐 dopl.utah.gov

Have questions?

COMPLETE GUIDE to Choosing the Right contractor!

Why Should You Trust Us?

When it comes to your property, you deserve a roofing company you can count on—and that’s exactly what we offer at Patriot Roofing & Construction. Just as we’ve proudly served our country, we stand by our work and are committed to serving you.