Kan. AG announces registration of more than 500 roofers

TOPEKA, Kan. (Legal Newsline) - Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt announced on Friday that more than 500 roofing contractors are now registered with his office.

The announcement comes after a new piece of legislation took effect on July 1 meant to help consumers avoid doing business with shady contractors. The newly registered roofers are now certified to operate in the state of Kansas.

"More Kansas roofing companies are becoming aware of their new legal obligation to register with our office," Schmidt said. "As the home improvement season approaches in the spring, consumers should also be aware of this requirement and request a copy of the registration certificate from any roofer before signing any contract."

The Kansas Roofing Contractor Registration Act was passed during the 2013 legislative session. The new law cracks down on unscrupulous or fly-by-night contractors who do not comply with the requirements for registration. The legislation requires every roofing contractor to obtain a registration certificate from Schmidt's office to legally provide residential or commercial roofing services for a fee in Kansas.

Schmidt said his office will keep working with local government construction permitting offices and trade associations to help contractors comply with the new legislation.

Contractors may register by visiting Schmidt's website. Consumers may also use the website to check if a roofer is registered.