Roofing Contractors in Hilo, Hawaii
Licensed Establishments
99
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
April through October - dry season with minimal rainfall
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
3-7 days for quotes, longer during storm season
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingle roof replacement | $12,000 – $22,000 |
| Metal roof installation | $18,000 – $35,000 |
| Emergency roof repair | $800 – $3,500 |
| Roof inspection | $300 – $600 |
| Gutter installation | $1,200 – $2,800 |
| Roof coating application | $2,500 – $6,000 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Hawaii requires C-20 Roofing Contractor license. Must pass business law exam and trade exam, show 4 years experience or complete approved apprenticeship, carry required insurance, and renew biennially with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
Building permits required for most roofing work in Hilo through Hawaii County Building Department. Permit fees range $200-800 depending on project scope. Plans required for structural changes.
Inspection Schedule
Initial permit inspection, mid-work inspection for major projects, and final inspection required. County has 48-72 hour response time for inspection requests.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers compensation as required by Hawaii law, contractor license bond $12,000
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Meet experience requirements
Document 4 years roofing experience or complete state-approved apprenticeship program. Gather employment records, W-2s, and contractor references.
- 2
Complete application
Submit C-20 Roofing Contractor application to Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs with required documentation and fees.
- 3
Pass examinations
Take and pass both business law exam and roofing trade exam. Study materials available through state licensing board.
- 4
Obtain insurance and bonding
Secure required general liability insurance minimum $300,000 and $12,000 contractor license bond from approved providers.
- 5
Submit final documentation
Provide insurance certificates, bond documentation, and any additional required paperwork to complete license approval process.
About This Market
Hilo's roofing market is driven by constant moisture, tropical storms, and volcanic ash exposure. With approximately 99 licensed establishments statewide, competition is moderate but work is steady year-round due to Hawaii's harsh conditions on roofing materials. Metal roofing dominates due to durability against wind and rain, with costs running 30-40% above mainland rates due to shipping and limited material suppliers. Emergency storm repairs drive significant revenue during winter months when rainfall peaks at 130+ inches annually. Getting licensed in Hawaii means navigating state bureaucracy that moves slower than molasses uphill. The C-20 license requires jumping through multiple hoops including trade exams, experience documentation, and insurance requirements that eliminate casual operators. Local building departments in Hilo are thorough but reasonable - they know the weather beats up roofs here. Focus your business on metal installations and maintenance contracts with property management companies. The tourist economy creates steady commercial work, and locals understand they need quality roofing to survive the climate.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Contractors in Hilo
0 roofing contractors in Hilo.
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