Why Oklahomans Could Be Paying More For A New Roof

Dan Bewley, News On 6

TULSA, Oklahoma -- Spring means the roofing business is in high gear. Bad weather can do a number on a roof and homeowners across the state are always looking for a quality contractor.

A new state law may help you find a reputable contractor. The new law, called the Roofing Contractor's Registration Act, is a list that lets you know if the contractor you're thinking of using is registered with the state.

It's online at the state's Construction Industries Board website.

"It's really just a way that the consumer can check the background of a roofer or contractor before they do business with them," Mike Wells, with A-Best Roofing, said.

Mike Wells of A-Best Roofing says the contractors must show that they're a licensed business with the state and that they have all the proper insurance.

The law requires the contractor to display their registration number on signs and in contracts.

Wells says customers should check the website to make sure a roofer is registered, but he also suggests you check with friends who have a new roof, the Better Business Bureau, and ask for references of local, recently completed jobs before you sign a contract.

Something else to consider if you're in the market for a new roof, because of the rising costs of fuel and the devastation in the south, the costs for shingles and other roofing materials is expected to rise by at least 20 percent by the end of the month.

"Typical square shingles that cost about $72 at the beginning of this month, we're anticipating it's going to cost about $100 a square by the end of this month," Wells said.

Wells says there's a lot of resources for customers to make the right choice and the online registry is just one path to a new roof.

"It's a good first step," he said. "It's not full blown licensing, doesn't require skillset by a roofer but it's a good first step."