A roof certification is a document signed and approved by a qualified roofing contractor that states that a roof has been properly inspected and is in working condition.
It also elaborates that the roof will be in good condition for many years in the future, at least 2 to 5 years.
Even though regular roof inspections help to identify potential problems early on, a certification is considered to be proof of a safe and functional roof.
According to statistics, the US roofing market is expected to reach $43.12 billion by 2033. If your roof isn’t certified yet, then here are reasons why having a roof certification will help you in the long run.
What is a Roof Certification?
Many homeowners get confused between roof inspection and roof certification. A roof inspection is a process where certified roof inspectors evaluate the roof’s condition and inspect it for damage.
However, a roof certification is different because it provides a degree or certification about the roof’s working condition.
Here, the roof inspector will conduct thorough inspections and then provide you with an official certificate that states that your roof is safe and will stay strong for the next few years.
A roof inspection often does not include thorough assessments all the time. But when a professional roof certification professional comes for roof certifications, they’ll carefully inspect every aspect of your roof and look for any signs of damage.
If no repairs are needed, the inspector will estimate the remaining lifespan of the roof and give you a certification accordingly.
How Often Should Your Roof Be Certified?
Roof certification processes are less frequent compared to conventional roof inspections that take place once or twice every year.
Most roof certifications, such as the FORTIFIED certification, are valid for about 5 years before they need to be renewed. This interval is given to make sure the roof continues to meet safety and efficacy standards.
While roof inspections are done biannually by roofers, certification processes are conducted when the house needs to be renovated or sold, or the homeowner requires a roof certificate for insurance.
Most insurance companies or roof inspectors also urge homeowners to go for roofing certifications after a major natural disaster has occurred, such as strong winds, hail, water damage, or fire damage.
Essential Roof Certifications in 2025
If you’re looking for reliable roofing companies, check for these essential roof certifications in 2025:
- OSHA Safety Certificate: The OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certificate verifies that the roofer has a commitment to safety and is carrying out all its inspections in a professional and careful manner. It also increases the customer’s trust in the roofing company.
- NRCA Pro Certification: NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association Certification) has a pro program, where the certification is given to only the best roofing services. Earning this honor separates the receiver from other roofing companies because it’s obtained by passing a difficult online exam.
- State Roofing License: Some US states, like Texas and Montana, don’t typically require a state certificate for roofing inspection, but others do. State organizations like the RCAT offer a licensing program that lets roofing contractors earn more credibility than unlicensed contractors.
- GAF Master Elite Certification: GAF is arguably the largest and most prestigious roofing contractor in North America, and their Master Elite Certification provides different perks to contractors, including enhanced warranty and discounts. Newer roofing businesses can also earn lower-level GAF honors.
- SELECT Shingle Master Credential: CertainTeed now offers the prestigious SELECT Shingle Master Credential to only the best roofing contractors, which includes a SureStart PLUS extended warranty coverage, along with a verified badge of the roofing contractor’s business on the CertainTeed website.
- Forklift Safety and Inspector: Since forklifts are commonly used in roof inspections and certification projects, earning the Forklift Safety and Inspector badge validates the company’s ability to carefully use a forklift and perform its inspections and repairs, along with a thorough understanding of its components.
Difference Between Roof Inspection and Roof Certification Projects
If you want to take a quick glance at the major differences between roof inspections and roof certifications, then here’s a table:
| Parameter | Roof Inspection | Roof Certification |
| Purpose | To identify any damage or potential problems and assess the roof’s health | Formally certify the roof’s condition and estimate the roof’s remaining lifespan for insurance claims or real estate purposes |
| Frequency | Once or twice a year, or after a major event, such as strong winds or storms | Once every 5 years, or when a roof inspection is required for insurance or real estate transactions |
| Inspection | Visual and technical assessment of the roof’s condition, including leaks and damages | Detailed evaluation by a certified company or professional, and the certification is issued when all criteria are met |
| Results | A detailed report with findings and recommendations for repair or replacement | Official certificates confirming the roof’s quality and lifespan |
| Cost | Between $100 and $400 for the inspection | Regular inspection costs and an additional fee of between $75 and $200 |
| Significance | To prevent potential problems and assess roof maintenance | Real estate sales, insurance discounts, and legal compliance |
| Delivery of the report | 1 or 2 days after inspection | Certificate given after thorough inspection |
Roof Certifications for Home Sellers vs Home Buyers
For home sellers, a roof certification provides a transparent and professional assessment of the roof and its condition.
If a homeowner wants to repair or even replace the roof, they should conduct a roof inspection and certification to better understand when and how to conduct the repair or replacement.
Moreover, when a homeowner needs to claim insurance for roof damage, roof certifications can again help prove the roof’s good condition.
Alternatively, if they want to sell the house, a roof certification increases the house’s value.
On the other hand, roof certification for home buyers shows them that the house is in good condition and is taken care of. It also prevents unexpected costs associated with roof repairs and maintenance after purchase.
Many mortgage lenders might also actively ask for roof certifications as a prerequisite for loan approval.
How much does a Roof Inspection Cost?
It’s quite difficult to give an exact estimate of roof inspection because every contractor is different. However, for a general roof inspection, you can expect it to be between $120 and $400. This price range can be quite broad, but most companies will charge somewhere within this budget.
Some companies might even charge you a service fee to track or carefully check out a roof leak, and the roof certification costs are added on top of that.
If you’re looking for a roof certification cost in California, the average price is between $150 and $300. However, companies that use infrared or drone technology can charge you more than $500, although this will also depend on the size and type of your roof.
The roof certification form in California alone costs between $75 and $200.
How is Roof Certification Related to Insurance?
Most roofing insurance companies will ask for a roofing certification to check whether your roof is up-to-date in terms of safety and quality standards.
If your certification is outdated, your insurance claims might get rejected, or you might not receive fair compensation.
Insurance companies typically require these certifications as proof of work done on your roof, as well as to prevent homeowners from making fraudulent claims.
Failure to provide these certifications can also lead to a delay in getting your roof repaired after damage.
Final Thoughts
If you want to obtain a roofing certificate, the first step is to hire a licensed contractor and have them inspect the roof carefully. After that, ask them to provide you with the required certificates so that you can submit them to the insurance company.
Can’t find a reliable roofing team? We at LA Roofing Materials can help you out. With years of experience, we’ve identified the best of the best roofing contractors who can get your job done effortlessly.