Roofing contractors have been engaged in a campaign to elevate the roofing industry to the likes of other contracting fields such as plumbing, HVAC and electrical since before this baby-boomer was born. Roofing products, systems and code standards continue to evolve, and for the most part improve. Standards for roofing contractors have improved greatly in some states and continue "business as usual" in others.
Over the years, I have seen roofing contractors work with their state legislators to enact appropriate standards for roofing work and for the contractors who perform the work. These contractors will tell you that all they desire is sound codes and regulations that promote excellent roofing and business practices. In addition to their desire to elevate the trade, many contractors simply want the ability to ply their trade on a "level playing field."