How To Find A Roof Contractor In Denver (2026 Homeowner Checklist)

3) “Are you replacing pipe boots and roof jacks, or reusing?”

Reusing old boots is how you end up with a “mystery leak” two winters later.

4) “What’s your plan for intake + exhaust ventilation?”

Bad ventilation cooks shingles early and invites condensation issues.

5) “Are you tearing off to deck? If not, why not?”

Sometimes overlays happen, but you want the reasoning and the risk explained.

6) “Who is your day-to-day job lead?”

If the salesperson says “the crew handles it,” get the actual contact name/number.

7) “If there’s hidden damage, how do you price it?”

You want a written change-order process, not the “we found more stuff” handshake.

Step 3: Know When Denver Requires a Roof Permit

Denver is clear about when a permit is needed for roof repairs/replacement. For many residential-size buildings, repairs beyond a threshold require a permit, and new roof penetrations require permits.

If you want the official Denver rule-of-thumb in plain English: if you’re doing more than a small repair, assume permits may be required and confirm before work starts. (A legit contractor won’t dodge this conversation.)

Denver’s permit guidance is here:
https://denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Agencies-Departments-Offices-Directory/Community-Planning-and-Development/Plan-Review-Permits-and-Inspections/Quick-Permits

And Denver’s “Roofing Guide and Checklist” PDF includes thresholds and scope notes.
Note: I attempted to render screenshots of the PDF for visual verification, but the tool returned an error in this environment—so I’m citing the PDF text directly.

Step 4: Get a Quote That’s Actually Comparable (Apples to Apples)

Most “cheap quotes” are cheap because something got left out. When you compare estimates, make sure each one clearly includes:

• Tear-off scope (all layers or partial)

• Decking replacement rules (how it’s measured and priced)

• Underlayment type and placement

• Flashing scope (drip edge, step flashing, counterflashing, valleys)

• Ventilation changes (bath vents, attic intake/exhaust)

• Ice/water details (especially eaves, penetrations, valleys)

• Cleanup + magnet sweep + dump fees

• Warranty (workmanship and manufacturer)

If a quote is one page and vague, it’s not a quote—it’s a guess with a bill attached later.

Step 5: Don’t Ignore the Gutters (They’re Part of the Roof System)

Here’s the part homeowners learn the hard way: the roof can be installed perfectly, but if drainage is wrong, you’ll still get water problems.

When you replace a roof, it’s smart to evaluate:

• Gutters pulling away / fascia damage

• Downspout placement dumping water at the foundation

• Missing extensions

• Valley water volume (overshooting gutters in heavy rain)

• Overflow points and grading

If you suspect drainage issues, start here:
Rain Gutter Replacement in Denver
https://erniesgutter.com/rain-gutter-replacement-in-denver/

And if the system is leaking/sagging:
Gutter Repair
https://erniesgutter.com/gutter-repair/

Step 6: Storm Damage in Denver (Do This Before You Touch Anything)

If hail or wind hit your roof, you want photos and documentation before repairs start. A good contractor helps you build a clean file: photos, test squares, notes, and a scope that matches what’s actually damaged.

If you’re dealing with hail damage, this is the service page to review:
https://erniesroofing.com/storm-hail-damage-roof-repair

What We Do (So You Don’t Have to Chase 5 Different Trades)

If you’re in Denver and you want a contractor who can actually carry the job from start to finish, these are the core service paths:

• Emergency / temporary leak stopping
  https://erniesgutter.com/temporary-emergency-roof-repair/

• Roof replacement planning
  https://erniesgutter.com/roof-replacement-in-denver-2/

• Commercial roofing
  https://erniesgutter.com/commercial-roofing/

• Denver gutter replacement
  https://erniesgutter.com/rain-gutter-replacement-in-denver/

Business basics (contact/location): 1195 W Custer Pl, Denver, CO 80223 • 720 346 ROOF

FAQs: Finding a Roof Contractor in Denver

1) How do I know if a roofer is legit in Denver?

Look for proof of insurance, a written scope, a real local address, and a clear permit plan when required. Denver has its own contractor licensing process and permit rules—verify details through the city resources.

2) Do roofers need a state license in Colorado?

Colorado does not have a single statewide roofing license requirement like some states; local jurisdictions handle permitting/licensing rules.

3) When is a roof permit required in Denver?

Denver requires permits for many roof repair/replacement situations and for new roof penetrations. The city’s quick permits page and roofing guide outline the thresholds and scope.

4) What should be included in a roofing estimate?

Scope, materials, tear-off plan, decking rules, flashing, ventilation, permit handling, cleanup/dump fees, and warranty terms.

5) What’s the biggest cause of “new roof leaks”?

Flashing details, penetrations (pipe boots), valleys, and wall transitions—usually not the shingles themselves.

6) Should I get more than one bid?

Yes—two to three is smart. More than that usually turns into confusion unless you have a standardized scope.

7) How much should I pay upfront?

Avoid large deposits with no materials on-site. A fair payment schedule matches real progress and protects both sides.

8) What’s the difference between workmanship warranty and manufacturer warranty?

Workmanship covers install errors. Manufacturer warranty covers material defects (and often has strict install requirements).

9) Why talk about gutters when I’m hiring a roofer?

Because drainage failures can mimic roof leaks and can cause fascia rot and foundation issues. Gutters are part of the water-control system.

10) What if I need immediate help for an active leak?

Temporary stabilization first (tarp/patch), then inspection and a proper repair plan. Start here:
https://erniesgutter.com/temporary-emergency-roof-repair/