Step 1 — Verify NB Contractor Licensing
New Brunswick does not require a specific "roofing contractor licence" in the same way as electricians or plumbers, but all business operators must be registered, and roofing contractors must carry WSIB/WorkSafe NB coverage for their workers. Ask for the contractor's WorkSafe NB employer registration number and verify it at worksafenb.ca.
Also confirm the contractor carries general liability insurance of at least $2 million. Request a certificate of insurance directly from their insurer — not a photocopy — and make sure it covers the date of your project.
Step 2 — Look for Manufacturer Certifications
GAF Master Elite, IKO Craftsman Premier, and CertainTeed Select Shingle Master are the three most important certifications for Moncton roofers. These are not self-declared — they require training, quality verification, and ongoing performance standards by the manufacturer.
GAF Master Elite specifically is held by fewer than 3% of Canadian roofers. It unlocks the Golden Pledge lifetime warranty — the only warranty in Canadian roofing that covers both materials AND installation labour for the lifetime of the home. Any contractor claiming GAF certification without Master Elite status cannot offer this warranty.
Step 3 — Get 2–3 Written, Itemized Quotes
A proper Moncton roofing quote specifies: the exact brand and model of shingles (e.g., "IKO Cambridge Dual Grey, 30-year warranty"), the underlayment type and ice & water shield brand and coverage area, the disposal method for old materials, the start date and estimated duration, and the warranty terms in writing.
Be cautious of quotes that are significantly lower than others. This almost always means cheaper materials, missing ice & water shield, or unlicensed labour. In NB's climate, shortcuts in underlayment will cost far more within 5–10 years.
Red Flags That Signal a Scam or Poor-Quality Contractor
Door-to-door approaches after storms: Legitimate contractors in Moncton don't canvas door-to-door offering "special prices on leftover materials." This is the classic storm-chaser pattern.
Large cash deposits demanded upfront: A standard deposit in Moncton is 10–15% to secure scheduling. Any demand for 50%+ upfront, especially in cash, is a major red flag.
No written contract: Under the NB Consumer Protection Act, all renovation contracts over $50 must be in writing. Any contractor who refuses to provide a written contract is violating provincial law.
Can't provide references: Ask for 2–3 recent Moncton-area references and actually call them. Ask specifically: "Did they show up when scheduled? Was cleanup thorough? Did you receive all paperwork?" Legitimate contractors have no hesitation providing this.