In the state of the New Jersey, roofing contractors are not required be licensed. This can make the process of choosing a professional, reputable roofer an especially daunting task for homeowners. Complicating things further is the fact that many homeowners are not well-practiced in this area, since roofs are made to last through many years of seasonal changes and severe weather. You might well be a homeowner for 20 years or more before you have to invest in a new roof. By contrast, you probably have a regular plumber or landscaper whose work you have confidence in. These are professionals with whom a trust has built through years’ worth of small, low-investment projects: fixing a leaky faucet here, pruning your bushes there. But when it comes to roofing contractors, there are hundreds to choose from in our state, and the stakes are high. So where do you begin?

Take a deep breath and relax. Despite the complications that exist, understanding a few key facts about the industry will help ensure you choose a reliable and highly skilled company. First off, while roofers don’t need to be licensed, all home improvement contractors do need to be registered with the state of NJ. (Be aware that many contractors say they are licensed by the state, when, in fact, they are only registered.) The registration process is in place as a way for the state to monitor contractors and ensure they are carrying the appropriate insurance, so it’s important that you ask your contractor for this information.

But registration is by no means proof of a contractor’s abilities. In fact, the state doesn’t provide any type of licensing standard for home improvement contractors, meaning they aren’t required to meet certain standards, possess specific knowledge, or take any type of exam or test in order to operate. Luckily, roofers can become certified by independent organizations to prove their abilities, enhance their knowledge, and provide additional peace of mind to their customers. One of the biggest names in the roofing industry is GAF, the largest shingle manufacturer in the U.S. To become factory-certified as a GAF Master Elite contractor, a roofing contractor needs to undergo extensive training, commit to continuing education, and possess a proven reputation for quality in its community. Do these standards sound lofty? That’s because they are! Only 2% to 3% of all roofing contractors have qualified as Master Elite contractors.

If you think you’ll be hard-pressed to find such a qualified roofing contractor in Northern NJ, think again. At George J. Keller & Sons, we’ve been installing roofs for nearly 35 years, and we’re committed to the maintaining our Master Elite status, along with several other key certifications. With us, you’ll get the peace of mind that comes from experience, quality, and hard-won reputation. Still have questions? We’re ready to answer them! Call us today at 973-927-0963 and we’ll be happy to walk you through this process at your own pace, working hard to gain your trust every step of the way.