What Insurance Do Roofers Need?
Having enough business liability is key to your insurance package for roofers.
Roofers’ insurance protects you and your roofing business against legal claims for accidents causing third-party bodily injury (client/supplier/member of the public) or third-party property damage. General liability insurance is the building block of your business liability insurance for roofers and it helps cover the cost of lawsuits and any court-awarded settlements.
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What does General liability insurance cover for roofers?
Roofing involves significant risk, falling debris, property damage, or accidental injury to a third party. General liability insurance covers claims related to:
- Property damage (e.g., damaging a customer's home during installation)
- Bodily injury to third parties (e.g., a homeowner or passerby getting injured)
- Legal defense costs and settlements
Without sufficient coverage, even a single incident could lead to lawsuits or claims that could bankrupt a small roofing business.
How much liability insurance should you carry?
Most Canadian roofing contractors carry at least $2 million in liability coverage, though some commercial contracts or municipalities may require $5 million or more.
Even if you work alone, you can still be held liable for damage or injury.
Does roofers insurance cover defective workmanship or roof leaks?
General liability only covers accidental damage, like if a falling tool breaks a window or your work causes a water leak that damages a ceiling. It doesn't cover bad workmanship, for that, you’d need errors & omissions (E&O) insurance or a warranty program.
Other types of Insurance that you might need:
- Commercial Auto Insurance
- Tools and Equipment Insurance
- Contractor’s Bond (Surety Bond, often required by law or contracts)
Final thoughts
In Canada, roofer insurance isn’t just a smart business move, it’s often a legal and contractual requirement. Whether you're a solo roofer or running a larger crew, staying properly insured with enough business liability insurance is needed to keep your business safe, compliant, and competitive in the Canadian market.
Top 5 FAQs about roofers insurance
Is roofing insurance legally required?
While not always legally required by law in every province, roofing insurance is often mandatory to secure contracts and is a requirement under certain provincial regulations.
What happens if a roofer doesn’t have insurance?
Without insurance, roofers and their clients are exposed to significant risks. Homeowners may be liable for injuries on their property, and contractors may face lawsuits or business closure after an incident.
Can independent contractors get roofing insurance?
Yes, both independent contractors and roofing companies can obtain insurance tailored to their specific needs and risks.
Are warranties the same as insurance?
No. Warranties cover defects in workmanship or materials, while insurance covers accidents, third-party injuries, and unforeseen events
How can I lower my roofing insurance premiums?
- Increase your deductible
- Maintain a good safety record and safety protocols
- Pay annually
