How to Choose the Right Roofing Contractor in Metairie
- Olympian Roof
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home — especially here in Metairie, where tropical storms, hurricanes, and high winds are a yearly reality. Whether you’re planning a full roof replacement or need storm repair, selecting the right roofing contractor can save you time, money, and stress down the road.
Why Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor Matters
From getting proper permits to ensuring code compliance and strengthening your home with advanced standards like FORTIFIED, the contractor you choose can make all the difference. Metairie homeowners deserve professionals who build roofs that last and help protect against severe weather.
🛠️ Know the Local Rules: Licensing, Permits & Inspections
New Licensing Requirements
Effective January 1, 2026, Louisiana requires that any roofer performing residential roofing work valued at $7,500 or more must hold either a Residential Roofing License or a Residential Construction License with a roofing classification. This helps ensure contractors are properly trained, licensed, and accountable before they start your job.
Before hiring, always:
Ask to see the contractor’s active Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) record
Verify the license covers roofing work specifically
Confirm they understand and comply with latest state law changes
👉 A contractor who resists discussing licensing is a red flag.
Roof Permits Now Required
Roof permits are not optional in Metairie and Jefferson Parish:
A residential re-roofing permit must be obtained before roof replacement work begins — even if it’s just the shingles being replaced.
Permits ensure the job meets current building codes and protect your home’s investment value.
A professional contractor should pull the permit for you, not encourage you to skip it.
If a contractor pressures you to skip permits or “handle it later,” that’s a major warning sign.
📜 Understanding the 2021 IRC High Wind Spec
Louisiana follows the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) for roofing — particularly for wind performance and roof covering attachments. The code’s high wind sections set standards for how roof materials must be attached and reinforced so they resist uplift and wind damage.
A qualified Metairie roofer will:
Install roofing to meet or exceed the 2021 IRC wind resistance requirements
Provide proper flashing, underlayment, nails/fasteners, and edge protection
Include documentation in your permit package
Ask your contractor how they meet 2021 IRC wind specs as part of your estimate review.
🏡 What Is a FORTIFIED Roof — and Why It’s Smart in Metairie
A FORTIFIED Roof is an enhanced roofing standard developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) that goes beyond basic building code requirements. These roofs use stronger edge systems, sealed roof decks, and advanced fasteners to resist severe winds and storm damage.
💡 Benefits of a FORTIFIED Roof:
Better resistance to hurricane-force winds & rain
Potential insurance premium discounts after certification
Increased peace of mind against storm damage
Added resale value for your home
To qualify for programs like the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program, you’ll need a certified FORTIFIED contractor and evaluator.
🧠 Screening Tips: What to Ask a Metairie Roofing Contractor
Here’s a checklist to use when interviewing local contractors:
🔍 Legal & Qualification Questions
“Are you licensed for residential roofing work in Louisiana?”
“Will you pull the permit and submit required documentation?”
“Do you install to the 2021 IRC high wind specifications?”
🏠 Quality & Standards
“Do you offer FORTIFIED roof installation and explain its benefits?”
“Can you show proof of insurance (General Liability + Workers' Comp)?”
“Who will handle inspections and photo documentation for the permit?”
📄 Contract & Warranty
“Can I get a written contract detailing materials, scope, and timeline?”
“Is there a warranty on materials and labor?”
A professional contractor expects and welcomes these questions.
🏆 Final Tips for Metairie Homeowners
✔ Always choose contractors with local experience in Southeast Louisiana
✔ Get at least 3 written estimates for comparison✔ Prioritize quality — not just the lowest price
✔ Confirm permit, bonding, licensing, install methods, and code compliance ahead of time
Your roof isn’t just another home project — it’s protection for your family and property. Choosing the right contractor in Metairie ensures your roof will perform during high winds, meet required codes, and may even save you money through Fortified standards and insurance incentives.
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