Roofing contractors in
Madison, Wisconsin.
A public directory of licensed roofing contractors serving greater Madison. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Wisconsin requires Dwelling Contractor Registration through DSPS for residential work under $25,000. Commercial roofing requires Commercial Building Contractor license. Must pass state exam, provide proof of insurance, $3,000 bond. Renewal every 2 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
City of Madison requires building permits for roof replacements and major repairs over $5,000. Apply through Madison Building Inspection Division. Permit fees range $150-$400 based on project value. Zoning review required for height changes.
Inspection Schedule
Rough inspection before sheathing installation, final inspection upon completion. Madison Building Inspection schedules within 1-2 business days of request. Additional inspection required for structural changes.
Insurance Minimums
Wisconsin requires general liability minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate. Workers compensation mandatory for employees. Madison may require higher limits for commercial projects.
How to Get Licensed
Determine License Type
Identify if you need Dwelling Contractor Registration (residential under $25,000) or Commercial Building Contractor license based on project scope and value.
Complete Application
Submit application to Wisconsin DSPS with required documentation including business registration, federal tax ID, and background information.
Pass Required Exam
Take and pass state contractor examination covering building codes, safety regulations, and business practices. Exam scheduled through PSI Services.
Provide Insurance Proof
Submit certificates of insurance showing general liability coverage meeting state minimums and workers compensation if employing staff.
Post Required Bond
Obtain and file $3,000 contractor bond with DSPS as financial security for license holders.
Pay Fees and Activate
Submit all fees (typically $75-$150) and receive license number. License active for 2 years with continuing education required for renewal.
About This Market
Madison's roofing market stays busy year-round with 447 licensed establishments statewide competing for work. Heavy demand comes from severe weather — hail, ice dams, and wind damage keep phones ringing. Residential dominates with older housing stock needing replacement, plus steady commercial work from university and government buildings. Costs run 10-15% above state average due to permitting requirements and material transport. Competition is fierce but work volume supports it.
To work Madison, get your DSPS registration sorted first — no shortcuts on licensing here. Build relationships with insurance adjusters since storm work pays the bills. Peak season means 60-hour weeks, so crew up accordingly. Winter work exists but ice dam repairs and emergency patches only. Know the permit process cold — city inspectors are thorough and delays cost money. Material suppliers are limited, so establish credit lines early. Weather windows are short, so crew efficiency matters more than anywhere.
- Median hourly wageBureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - $26.35/hr ($54,808/yr)
- Licensed establishmentsU.S. Census Bureau - 447 establishments statewide
- Licensing requirementsWisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
- Permit requirementsMadison Building Inspection Division
- Insurance minimumsWisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Frequently Asked Questions
What license do I need to do roofing work in Madison, WI?
Wisconsin requires Dwelling Contractor Registration for residential work under $25,000, Commercial Building Contractor license for larger projects. Apply through DSPS with exam, insurance proof, and $3,000 bond per state licensing board requirements.
How much does a typical roof replacement cost in Madison?
Asphalt shingle replacements run $8,500-$15,000 for average homes. Metal roofing costs $12,000-$22,000. Prices reflect Madison's higher permit costs and material transport fees compared to rural Wisconsin markets.
Do I need a permit for roof work in Madison?
Yes, Madison Building Inspection Division requires permits for roof replacements and repairs over $5,000. Permit fees range $150-$400 based on project value. Zoning review required for any height changes per city ordinance.
What insurance do roofing contractors need in Wisconsin?
State minimum general liability is $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate. Workers compensation mandatory for employees. Madison commercial projects may require higher limits per state insurance requirements.
When is peak roofing season in Madison?
May through September with highest demand June-August. Severe weather season drives storm damage repairs. Winter work limited to emergency repairs due to weather conditions and material limitations.
Roofing contractors in Madison
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