Roofing Advice
June 2026  |  By Chris Tenney

How to Choose a Roofing Contractor in Gainesville, FL: What to Ask Before You Sign

Godwin Green Roofing  |  Gainesville, FL  |  License CCC#1329478  |  Updated June 2026
Quick Answer

Verify the Florida Certified Roofing Contractor license at myfloridalicense.com, confirm the crew is in-house (not subcontractors), ensure permits are pulled for every job, and get the workmanship warranty in writing. In Gainesville, Godwin Green Roofing (License CCC#1329478) has operated under these standards since 1974.

How do you verify a roofing contractor's license in Florida?

Every roofing contractor in Florida is required to hold a state-issued license. Verify any contractor's license at myfloridalicense.com before signing anything. Search by company name or license number. Godwin Green Roofing holds Florida Certified Roofing Contractor license CCC#1329478, held by Christopher Tenney, who personally supervises every installation in Gainesville and Alachua County.

Should a roofing contractor use their own crew or subcontractors?

Many roofing companies use subcontractors — crews hired job by job rather than employed directly. This affects accountability, insurance coverage, and quality consistency. Ask directly before signing: is this your own crew or a subcontractor? Godwin Green Roofing uses its own in-house crew on every job. All crew members are covered by workers compensation and liability insurance.

Do roofing contractors in Gainesville need to pull permits?

Yes. Every re-roofing project in Gainesville requires a permit from Alachua County or the City of Gainesville under Florida Building Code. A contractor who suggests skipping the permit is removing a layer of protection that exists for the homeowner. Godwin pulls a permit for every project and schedules two inspections — one in-progress and one final — on every job.

What should a roofing warranty cover in Florida?

A roofing project includes two warranties: the manufacturer's warranty on materials and the contractor's workmanship warranty on installation. Always ask what the workmanship warranty covers and whether it transfers to a new owner.

  • Godwin workmanship warranty on shingles: 5 years, fully transferable
  • Godwin workmanship warranty on metal roofs: 10 years, fully transferable
  • Atlas Pinnacle Pristine manufacturer warranty: 40 years
  • Both warranties cover material, labor, and restoration costs

Should a roofing contractor in Gainesville require a deposit?

No reputable roofing contractor requires a large upfront deposit. A contractor asking for 30–50% before work begins is a red flag. Godwin Green Roofing requires no deposit on any project. Payment is not due until the job is complete and you are fully satisfied — 10 days after the invoice is emailed.

What professional associations should a Gainesville roofing contractor belong to?

Membership in professional associations signals a contractor who stays current with Florida Building Code updates and industry best practices. Look for:

  • FRSA — Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association
  • NCFRA — North Central Florida Roofing Association

Christopher Tenney of Godwin Green Roofing is an active FRSA member and currently serves as president of the NCFRA.

What should be in a roofing contract in Florida?

Before any work begins, a written contract should include:

  • Scope of work in detail
  • Materials specified by brand and product name (e.g. Atlas Pinnacle Pristine, radiant heat barrier)
  • Timeline for completion
  • Workmanship warranty terms and transferability
  • Total price with no hidden fees
  • Permit acknowledgment

A reputable contractor will have no hesitation putting all of this in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get a Free Roofing Quote from a Licensed Gainesville Roofing Contractor

Christopher Tenney personally handles every estimate. License CCC#1329478. Founded in Gainesville in 1974.