How do I check if a roofing contractor's license is valid in California?

You can instantly check the status of any contractor's license on the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website at cslb.ca.gov. You will need their business name or license number (for example, Econo Roofing's is CSLB #749551).

What are some warning signs of a bad roofing contractor?

Be wary of contractors who pressure you to sign a contract immediately, ask for a large cash deposit upfront, refuse to provide proof of insurance or licensing, or offer bids that are substantially lower than the competition. A lack of a physical business address is also a major red flag.

Should I get multiple estimates for my roof replacement?

Yes, we always recommend getting at least three detailed, written estimates. This allows you to compare the scope of work, materials proposed, and pricing to ensure you are receiving fair value.

What's the difference between a standard warranty and a manufacturer-backed warranty?

A standard warranty typically only covers the local contractor's workmanship for a short period. An elite, manufacturer-backed warranty, like the GAF Golden Pledge®, Owens Corning Platinum Protection®, or CertainTeed's 5-Star Coverage, covers both the roofing materials and the installation workmanship for up to 25 years or more, directly backed by the manufacturer. This is the highest level of protection available.

Why is hiring a local contractor so important in Stanislaus County?

A local contractor understands the specific challenges of our climate, from the intense summer heat that can cause nail pops to the heavy winter rains. They are also familiar with local building codes and permit requirements, ensuring your project is done right.

What should a professional roofing estimate include?

A professional estimate should be a detailed, written document that itemizes all costs, including materials, labor, tear-off and disposal of the old roof, and any necessary permits. It should also include information on the warranties provided for both labor and materials.

How to Choose a Roofing Contractor in Stanislaus County: A Checklist

Mario Eduardo Espindola • October 6, 2025

Person using a hammer to repair roof shingles. White gloves, close-up shot.

Choosing a roofing contractor is the most critical decision you will make for your home's protection. A new roof is a significant investment, and the quality of the installation will determine its lifespan, performance, and durability for decades to come. In a competitive market like Stanislaus County, it can be challenging to distinguish a reliable professional from a less reputable operator.

This guide provides a straightforward checklist to help you vet and select a roofing contractor in Modesto, Turlock, or the surrounding communities, ensuring you partner with a true professional who will protect your investment.

The Contractor Vetting Checklist: A Printable Guide

Use this checklist to evaluate every contractor you consider. You can print this page or save it as a PDF to have on hand during your consultations.

[ ] Local & Established: Do they have a physical address and a long history in Stanislaus County?
[ ] Licensed & Insured: Can they provide a valid CSLB license number and proof of both general liability and workers' compensation insurance?
[ ] Strong Reputation: Do they have a high rating and positive reviews on Google, BBB, and Angi?
[ ] Elite Certifications: Are they a GAF Master Elite®, Owens Corning Platinum Preferred®, or CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™ contractor?
[ ] Superior Warranties: Can they offer manufacturer-backed warranties that cover both materials and workmanship?
[ ] Detailed Estimate: Is their estimate a detailed, written proposal that itemizes all costs?

1. Verify They Are Local and Established

A local contractor has a vested interest in maintaining a strong reputation within the community. They understand the specific challenges of the Central Valley climate—from intense summer heat to wet winters—and are familiar with local building codes and permit requirements.

What to look for: A physical business address in the area (not just a P.O. Box) and a long history of serving Stanislaus and Merced counties.
The Econo Roofing Standard: We are a family-owned business that has been a part of the Central Valley community since 1996, with deep roots in Modesto.

2. Confirm Licensing and Insurance

This is a non-negotiable step that protects you, the homeowner.

Licensing: Any contractor you hire must have a valid license from the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You can verify a license number on the CSLB website at cslb.ca.gov or by calling (800) 321-CSLB (2752). A contractor's license number should be on their business card, contracts, and advertisements.
Insurance: A professional contractor must carry both General Liability Insurance and Workers' Compensation Insurance. General Liability protects your property from accidental damage, while Workers' Comp covers the crew in case of injury, so you are not held liable. Ask to see their certificates of insurance.
The Econo Roofing Standard: We are fully licensed (CSLB #749551), bonded, and insured, providing complete peace of mind for every homeowner we serve.

3. The Single Most Important Factor: Elite Manufacturer Certifications

While many contractors can install a roof, only a tiny fraction have proven they meet the highest standards of the industry's leading manufacturers. These certifications are your best guarantee of quality.

GAF Master Elite® Contractor: This certification is achieved by only the top 2% of roofing contractors in North America. It requires a proven reputation for excellence, a commitment to ongoing professional training, and allows the contractor to offer GAF's strongest warranties.
Owens Corning Platinum Preferred® Contractor: This is an invitation-only program for the top 1% of the roofing industry. Contractors must pass rigorous inspections of their workmanship and demonstrate financial stability and a history of excellent customer service.
CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™: As CertainTeed's highest credential, this certification recognizes contractors who meet the most stringent standards for professionalism, quality, and industry knowledge. To qualify, a company must have been in business for at least five years, carry all required insurance, and ensure their team has passed rigorous training on installation best practices.

In Stanislaus and Merced counties, Econo Roofing is proud to be the only roofing company to hold elite certifications from all three of North America's leading manufacturers: GAF Master Elite®, Owens Corning Platinum Preferred®, and CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™.

4. Ask About Their Warranties

The best warranties come directly from the manufacturer and cover both materials and workmanship. These are only available through elite certified contractors.

What to ask for: Inquire about manufacturer-backed warranties like the GAF Golden Pledge®, the Owens Corning Platinum Protection® Limited Warranty, or CertainTeed's SureStart™ PLUS 5-Star Coverage. These warranties cover workmanship for up to 25 years or even a lifetime, backed by the manufacturer, not just the local installer.
The Econo Roofing Standard: Our elite certifications give our customers exclusive access to the most robust, non-prorated warranties in the industry, offering protection you can count on for decades.

5. Insist on a Detailed, Written Estimate

A professional contractor will provide a detailed, written proposal that outlines the full scope of work. An unusually low bid is often a red flag.

What to look for: The estimate should clearly itemize the costs for materials, labor, tear-off and disposal of the old roof, and any necessary permits. It should be transparent, with no hidden fees.
A Real-World Example: After getting several bids for his Modesto home, one homeowner noted, "Contacted half a dozen companies; some never called back, one estimator was unprofessional, another took weeks for a bid, and several bids were ridiculously high. Called Econo Roofing... Their estimator Brian came out right away, listened to what was wanted, added suggestions, and gave a very competitive bid." This is the professional experience you should expect.

For a detailed breakdown of what to expect in an estimate, see our Guide to Roof Replacement Costs in Modesto and Merced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important thing to look for in a Modesto roofing contractor?
While licensing and insurance are essential, the single most important qualification is elite manufacturer certification. Certifications like GAF Master Elite®, Owens Corning Platinum Preferred®, and CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™ are only awarded to the top 1-2% of contractors and are your best guarantee of quality, training, and access to superior warranties.
How do I check if a roofing contractor's license is valid in California?
You can instantly check the status of any contractor's license on the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website at cslb.ca.gov. You will need their business name or license number (for example, Econo Roofing's is CSLB #749551).
What are some warning signs of a bad roofing contractor?
Be wary of contractors who pressure you to sign a contract immediately, ask for a large cash deposit upfront, refuse to provide proof of insurance or licensing, or offer bids that are substantially lower than the competition. A lack of a physical business address is also a major red flag.
Should I get multiple estimates for my roof replacement?
Yes, we always recommend getting at least three detailed, written estimates. This allows you to compare the scope of work, materials proposed, and pricing to ensure you are receiving fair value.
What's the difference between a standard warranty and a manufacturer-backed warranty?
A standard warranty typically only covers the local contractor's workmanship for a short period. An elite, manufacturer-backed warranty, like the GAF Golden Pledge®, Owens Corning Platinum Protection®, or CertainTeed's 5-Star Coverage, covers both the roofing materials and the installation workmanship for up to 25 years or more, directly backed by the manufacturer. This is the highest level of protection available.
Why is hiring a local contractor so important in Stanislaus County?
A local contractor understands the specific challenges of our climate, from the intense summer heat that can cause nail pops to the heavy winter rains. They are also familiar with local building codes and permit requirements, ensuring your project is done right.
What should a professional roofing estimate include?
A professional estimate should be a detailed, written document that itemizes all costs, including materials, labor, tear-off and disposal of the old roof, and any necessary permits. It should also include information on the warranties provided for both labor and materials.

Your Next Step: Choose a Contractor You Can Trust

Choosing the right contractor is about more than just getting a new roof; it's about investing in long-term peace of mind. For a complete overview of the entire replacement process, see our Homeowner's Guide to Roof Replacement in Stanislaus & Merced Counties.

Ready to work with the most certified and trusted roofing team in the Central Valley?
Schedule your free, no-obligation roof inspection with Econo Roofing today.

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