Tennessee roofing rules: Contractor and home improvement licenses
Last updated · Codes, permits & licensing
Short answer: In Tennessee, roofing projects of $25,000 or more require a state contractor license. In nine counties, including Davidson, Shelby, Knox, and Hamilton, residential remodeling jobs from $3,000 to $24,999 require a home improvement license. Check the license with the state board before you sign.[1]
When does a Tennessee roofer need a contractor license?
A Tennessee roofer needs a contractor license from the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors when a project costs $25,000 or more.[1] That includes many full reroofs on larger homes. The license requires financial review, exams, and other qualifications. Ask for the license number and look it up on the board's website, and confirm the classification covers roofing.
What is Tennessee's home improvement license?
Tennessee's home improvement license is required for residential remodeling projects from $3,000 to $24,999, but only in counties that have adopted the law.[2] The state board lists those counties as Bradley, Davidson, Hamilton, Haywood, Knox, Marion, Robertson, Rutherford, and Shelby. If you live in one of these counties and your roof job falls in that range, ask for the home improvement license number.
What if your roof job is under $3,000?
If your roof job is under $3,000, a state license is generally not required. Small repairs fall in this range. Even so, ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation and get a written estimate. Local business licenses may still apply. Our contractor licensing page explains how rules differ by state.
How do you check a Tennessee roofer's license?
To check a Tennessee roofer's license, use the license search on the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance website. Search by name or license number. Confirm the license is active and that the name matches the company on your contract. For home improvement licenses, confirm it applies in your county.
How do Tennessee storms affect roofing?
Tennessee storms affect roofing through hail, high winds, and tornadoes, especially in spring. Hail can bruise shingles and knock granules loose, and wind can lift tabs and break seals. Check gutters, vents, and siding from the ground after a storm. Our guide on hail damage signs shows what to look for. A free inspection can document damage.
How should Tennessee homeowners handle insurance claims?
Tennessee homeowners should handle insurance claims by reporting damage promptly, documenting with photos, and keeping receipts for temporary repairs. The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance's Insurance Division handles consumer complaints about insurers.[3] Your insurer decides coverage. Be cautious of contractors who ask you to sign over insurance benefits before the claim is reviewed.
How do you avoid storm chasers in Tennessee?
To avoid storm chasers in Tennessee, verify the license for jobs that need one, get multiple written estimates, and avoid paying in full before work starts. Out-of-state crews often follow big hailstorms. Ask for a local address and references. Our guide to storm chaser roofing scams lists more red flags.
What should a Tennessee roofing contract include?
A Tennessee roofing contract should include the license number when required, the scope of work, product names, decking repair pricing, price, payment schedule, start and end dates, and warranty terms. Make sure the contract total and license type match: a job priced at $25,000 or more needs a contractor license. Compare bids using our guide on comparing roofing estimates.
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Frequently asked questions
Does Tennessee require a roofing license?
A contractor license is required for projects of $25,000 or more, and a home improvement license for $3,000 to $24,999 in certain counties.
Which Tennessee counties require a home improvement license?
Bradley, Davidson, Hamilton, Haywood, Knox, Marion, Robertson, Rutherford, and Shelby, per the state board.
Do small roof repairs need a license in Tennessee?
Jobs under $3,000 generally do not need a state license, but check local rules.
Sources
- Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors: Contractor License. www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/contractors/license/get/contractor.html
- Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors: Home Improvement License. www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/contractors/license/get/home-improvement.html
- Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance: Insurance Division. www.tn.gov/commerce/insurance-division.html
Sources checked November 4, 2026. Estimates are not quotes. Roofing, insurance, and legal details vary. Confirm with your contractor, insurer, or attorney.