9d • General discussion
This Roofing Contract Would Not Pass Massachusetts Law
Homeowners: This Roofing Contract Would Not Pass Massachusetts Law
We recently reviewed a roofing estimate for a full “strip and re-roof” project totaling $16,650.
At first glance, it looks professional. It includes a price, a scope description, and even a signature section.
However, under Massachusetts law, this document is not a legally compliant home improvement contract.
What’s Missing (And Why It Matters)
This agreement failed to include required elements under M.G.L. c. 142A:
- No Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration number
- No Construction Supervisor License (CSL) number
- No three-day right to cancel notice
- No start or completion date
- No defined payment schedule
- No insurance disclosure
- No permit responsibility identified
- No detailed material specifications or code compliance language
Why This Is a Problem
In Massachusetts, contracts over $1,000 must meet strict legal requirements.
When they don’t:
- The contract may be unenforceable
- The homeowner may be exposed to liability
- The contractor may be in violation of consumer protection law (M.G.L. c. 93A)
This is how homeowners end up dealing with:
- Cost overruns
- Poor workmanship
- Disputes with no clear legal protection
The Biggest Red Flag
The document includes a signature section, which attempts to make it binding—
—but it does not include the required legal protections for the homeowner.
This creates a high-risk situation where the homeowner assumes risk without proper legal safeguards.
What a Proper Contract Should Include
Before signing any agreement, make sure it includes:
- Verified HIC registration
- CSL license (for roofing work)
- Detailed scope of work (materials, ventilation, flashing, ice barrier)
- Written payment schedule
- Start and completion dates
- Insurance documentation
- Permit responsibility
- Three-day cancellation notice
Our Recommendation
Do not sign contracts that are vague, incomplete, or missing required legal disclosures.
If something feels unclear, it usually is.
We Review Contracts Before You Sign
Through the My Path to Safe Housing Initiative, we help homeowners:
- Review contractor estimates and contracts
- Identify legal risks
- Avoid costly mistakes
- Connect with vetted professionals
Join our homeowner education platform:https://www.skool.com/my-path-to-freedom-ministry-6252/about
Disclaimer
This post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
0
0 comments
This Roofing Contract Would Not Pass Massachusetts Law
powered by
skool.com/my-path-to-freedom-ministry-6252
Empowering homeowners with education, resources, and support to build safe, sustainable, and energy-smart homes.
Suggested communities
Powered by