Utah Homeowner’s Contractor Verification Guide + 2025 Roofing Trends.
- A&A Roofing
- Oct 10
- 4 min read
As a Utah homeowner, hiring a contractor is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make, whether it’s a roof replacement, siding work, or a remodel. Without proper due diligence, you risk unexpected bills, subpar workmanship, or worse.
Why Contractor Verification Matters in Utah
Before diving into the steps, here’s what’s at stake:
Some contractors operate without licensing, voiding permits or warranties.
Poor workmanship can lead to early failures.
Rising homeowner insurance costs are making stricter material and contractor expectations more common.
Homeowners who rely on rumors or aesthetics over verification often get more than they bargained for.
The Core Verification Checklist: Step by Step
1. Confirm Active License with Utah DOPL
2. Cross‑Check via the Construction Business Registry (CBR)
3. Ask for Proof of Insurance & Bonding
4. Use DOPL’s Residential Construction Agreement (or Equivalent)
5. Verify Local Permits, Municipal Rules & Zoning
6. Request Work Portfolio & References
7. Get & Compare Multiple Bids (Watch out for Lowballers)
8. Watch for Red Flags That Signal Trouble
9. Document Everything Throughout the Project
DOWNLOAD THE FULL CHECKLIST BELOW
Pro tip: Record every communication (text, emails). Keep photos of materials delivered and track work progress. These records help if disputes arise.
Other Roof & Home Trends Utah Homeowners Should Watch Out For.
1. What to Do About Insurance Pressure & Why Does Roof Resilience Matter?
Home insurance premiums are rising across Utah, and insurers are becoming stricter about coverage for older, less resilient roofs. Some insurers now require upgraded roofing systems or proof of proper installation to maintain coverage.Homeowners should ask contractors about impact-resistant shingles, double underlayment, reinforced decking, and other resilience features.If a contractor can’t justify or source these, that’s a red flag.
2. Are Green, Solar and Energy Efficiency Roofs on Demand?
Yes, Utah homeowners are increasingly interested in sustainable upgrades. Solar, smart roofs, and enhanced insulation are trending.If the project touches the roof or building envelope, verify that your contractor is familiar with:
Solar mounting and structural load calculations
Roofing underlays compatible with solar
Codes for electrical tie-ins and permitting
Method to preserve warranty when solar is added
A contractor who avoids these questions or defers responsibility is less professional and likely hiding some shortcomings.
3. What About When You Own a Newer home & Are Looking For Early Modifications?
Many homes sold in Utah in 2024 were under 10 years old, meaning owners are more likely to remodel or repair early in the home’s life cycle.When working on newer homes, contractors must understand modern building codes, warranties, and integration with other systems (roof trusses, HVAC, etc.).Ask for experience with homes built in the last 10 years, it shows they understand these nuances.
4. How Much Should I Budget for a Roof?
With interest rates and material costs unpredictable, many homeowners hesitate to do full upgrades. Smart contractors now offer:
Phased work plans that address priority items such as roof leaks and minor repairs first, then enhance later.
Transparent financing or payment plans, clearly documented in the contract.
Scalable upgrades like installing a base system now, and allowing for solar integration later.
Should You Take Technological & Industry Shifts into Consideration?
Yes, you should, when possible, take the following into consideration:
Is The Contractor Supply Chain Resilient?: Given past delays, contractors with stable supply chains (or local warehouses) fare better than those who promise “overnight” sourcing.
Is Material innovation Important When Choosing a Contractor? New roofing products with better warranties, lighter weight, fire/impact ratings, etc.
Are Color, Design & Aesthetics Important on a Roof?: Yes, Homeowners are combining roof function with design choices like warm earthy shingle blends, matte finishes, and accent metals are trending.
What Happens After You Hire a Contractor?
Even with perfect verification, execution matters. Use these tactics to protect your interests during you roof construction:
Hold a kickoff meeting: Walk the project, review contract line by line, clarify expectations (cleanup, access, disruptions).
Daily or weekly check-ins: Ask for timelines, check material deliveries, confirm what will be done next.
Photo documentation: Take before, during, and after images; ask the contractor to do the same.
Approve change orders in writing: Never verbalize scope changes.
Schedule inspections: Use your city’s building inspector or independent third party to check permit compliance or make sure your roofing contractor is doing so.
Final walkthrough & punch-list: Do a full inspection before agreeing final payment. Ask for warranty transfer documents and lien waivers.
This process ensures accountability and gives you leverage in case issues appear.
Red Flags That Mean “Stop & Reconsider”
If you spot any of these during contractor vetting or early work, you should pause or cancel:
Contractor refuses licensing or insurance proof.
No or weak contract.
Demand for too-high upfront payments.
Skipping permits or declarations like “we won’t need inspections.”
Consistent no-shows, late starts, or poor communication.
Using cheap material substitutes without telling you.
Unwillingness to provide references or portfolio.
No willingness to provide change order documentation.
DOWNLOAD THE FULL CHECKLIST BELOW
Your roof is a key piece of your home, if you have any doubts about the quality of your contractor, walk!
You have many options, and peace of mind is paramount when investing in something as important as your home.
A&A Roofing and Capitol Roofing Services, part of the Capitol Roofing Group are proud to be fully verified roofing contractors. For more information about our services contact us at 801-562-5568 or email us at aaroofs@capitolroofing.com
Ready to book an inspection? Book it HERE!
About the Author:
Kris Hitesman | President – Capitol Roofing Group
Kris Hitesman is a third-generation roofing contractor and President of the Capitol Roofing Group, the parent company of A&A Roofing. Kris’s expertise is matched by her passion for innovation. She is an active member of numerous industry organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association, National Women in Roofing, Utah Safety Council, and Utah Roofing Contractors Association. Her commitment to the field is further evidenced by her position on the board of directors for the Western States Roofing Contractors Association, where she serves as the immediate Former President. When she’s not steering the company to new heights, Kris enjoys entertaining, crafting, and spending quality time with her family on a nearby lake, accompanied by their beloved pets. Her life, both on and off the job, reflects a deep dedication to family, craftsmanship, and community.
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