How To Get Your Roofing Insurance: Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’re a seasoned roofer or just getting your roofing business off the ground, securing the right roofing insurance is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your livelihood.
Did you know that roofing is one of the most hazardous professions in the U.S.?
It has a fatal injury rate of 47 per 100,000 workers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s why many clients won’t even consider hiring a roofer without proof of insurance. And general contractors or larger clients often make it a requirement to bid on projects.
Having the proper insurance isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about safeguarding your business, your team, and your clients from the unexpected.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about roofing insurance in the U.S. in 2025.
We’ll look at the steps to get the right coverage, answer some common questions, and get you on your way to running fully protected and ready for success.
Let’s dive into it!
Steps to Get your Roofing Insurance
Why Do Roofers Need Insurance?
Roofing is a high-risk industry. From working at heights to handling sharp tools and heavy equipment, accidents can happen. Proper insurance not only protects you but also gives clients peace of mind knowing they’ve hired a “bonded and insured” roofer.
Being bonded ensures your clients are financially protected if you fail to fulfill a contract, while being insured protects your business and clients from financial losses due to accidents, injuries, or property damage.
In addition, many states require roofing contractors to carry specific types of insurance, such as liability insurance or a warranty bond. Without these, you could face fines or lose out on lucrative projects.
Step 1: Understand the Types of Roofing Insurance
Roofing contractors need a range of insurance policies to protect their business, employees, and clients. Each type of insurance serves a specific purpose, ensuring you’re covered for potential risks that come with roofing projects.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
General Liability Insurance
This is a must-have for roofing contractors. It protects you from financial losses if your work causes property damage or injuries to third parties. For instance, if a ladder falls and damages a client’s car or injures a bystander, general liability insurance will cover repair costs or medical bills. Without it, you’d be paying these expenses out of pocket, which could be financially devastating.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
If you have employees, this insurance is typically required by law. It covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages if a worker gets injured on the job. Roofing is a high-risk profession, so having this coverage is essential for protecting your team and meeting state requirements.
Commercial Auto Insurance
Whether you use a single van or a fleet of trucks for your roofing business, commercial auto insurance is crucial. It provides coverage for accidents, theft, or damage involving your business vehicles. For example, if a company truck is rear-ended while transporting materials, this insurance will cover repair costs and any third-party damages.
Tools and Equipment Insurance
Your tools are the backbone of your business. This type of insurance ensures you’re not left out of pocket if they’re stolen, lost, or damaged on the job site. For instance, if a heavy storm damages your equipment overnight, tools and equipment insurance will cover the cost of repair or replacement.
Surety Bonds
While not technically insurance, surety bonds are often required to secure contracts. They act as a financial guarantee that you’ll fulfill your contractual obligations. If you don’t complete a project or meet agreed-upon terms, the bond ensures the client is compensated.
Step 2: Research the Roofing Insurance Requirements in Your State
Every state has its own insurance requirements for roofing contractors, and understanding these is crucial to staying compliant and avoiding fines or legal trouble. The type and amount of insurance needed can vary significantly depending on where you operate.
Here are some examples of state-specific requirements:
Florida Roofing Insurance Requirements
In Florida, roofing contractors must carry general liability insurance with minimum coverage of $100,000 for property damage and $300,000 for bodily injury. This ensures both the client and contractor are financially protected in case of accidents.
Texas Roofing Insurance Requirements
Texas does not require state-level licensing for roofers, but many cities and counties mandate proof of liability insurance. For example, in Houston or Dallas, you may need to show coverage to obtain local permits or contracts.
Illinois Roofing Insurance Requirements
Illinois has stricter requirements, with contractors needing at least $500,000 in liability coverage to operate legally. This higher threshold reflects the state’s focus on protecting clients and contractors from significant financial risks.
Tip! States without mandatory insurance requirements, like Texas, often have cities or municipalities with their own rules. Make sure to check both state and local regulations to cover all your bases.
Failing to meet your state’s insurance requirements can result in fines, loss of your license, or even lawsuits. To stay compliant, take the time to thoroughly research your state’s specific insurance standards.
Step 3: Shop for the Right Policy
Finding the right insurance policy for your roofing business isn’t just about price. It’s about getting the right coverage to protect your company, your employees, and your clients.
Not all insurance policies are created equal, so taking the time to shop around can save you money down the road.
Here’s how to find the best fit:
Compare Quotes from Multiple Providers
Don’t settle for the first policy you find. Reach out to multiple insurance providers and request quotes tailored to your business needs. Comparing options ensures you’re getting the best value for your coverage, not just the lowest price.
Check Reviews and Reputation
An insurance policy is only as good as the company backing it. Look for providers with a strong reputation for claims processing and customer service. Online reviews and recommendations from other roofing contractors can be invaluable. Also, check their standing with organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Look for Industry-Specific Policies
Some insurers offer policies designed specifically for roofing businesses, which can include coverage for unique risks like working at heights, heavy equipment damage, and storm-related liabilities. These tailored policies often provide more comprehensive protection than general business insurance.
Ask About Bundled Policies
Many insurers offer discounts if you bundle multiple types of coverage, such as general liability, workers’ compensation, and tools and equipment insurance. Bundling can streamline your coverage while saving you money.
Understand the Fine Print
Take the time to read the policy details carefully. Ensure you know what’s covered, what’s excluded, and any deductibles or limits. For example, some policies may exclude high-risk jobs like steep-slope roofing or working in hurricane-prone areas.
Step 4: Bundle Your Roofing Insurance Policies
Bundling your insurance policies can be a smart way to save money while simplifying your coverage.
Many insurance providers offer discounts when you combine multiple policies, such as general liability, workers’ compensation, and commercial auto insurance, into one package.
This not only reduces your overall costs but also makes it easier to manage renewals, payments, and claims.
Why Bundling Makes Sense:
- Cost Savings: Insurers often reward loyalty with discounts when you purchase multiple policies through them. For example, bundling general liability and commercial auto insurance could save you 10–20% on your premiums.
- Simplified Management: Handling all your insurance needs through one provider means fewer accounts to monitor, a single renewal date, and one point of contact for questions or claims.
- Comprehensive Coverage: By bundling, you’re less likely to have gaps in coverage that could leave your business exposed. A single provider can help tailor your policies to ensure all your bases are covered
Step 5: Review Your Roofing Coverage Annually
Your roofing business isn’t static. And neither should your insurance coverage be.
As your roofing company grows, your insurance needs will evolve. If you’ve hired more employees, purchased additional vehicles, or taken on larger, high-value projects, your existing policies may no longer provide adequate protection.
Regular reviews help ensure you’re covered while avoiding overpaying for unnecessary extras.
During your review, evaluate any changes in your business over the past year. For example, expanding your services to include solar panel installations or green roofing might require additional coverage.
Similarly, check that your liability limits align with your current operations. Smaller limits may not suffice if you’re taking on larger commercial jobs. Meet with your insurance provider to discuss these changes and explore potential discounts or updated bundles to save money.
Real-World Example: Why Roofing Insurance Matters
James, a roofing contractor in Texas, was working on a residential roofing project in a busy suburban neighborhood. While moving equipment on the roof, one of his employees accidentally knocked a wrench off the edge.
The wrench hit a parked SUV in the driveway below, leaving a large dent in the hood and a cracked windshield. The vehicle’s owner, understandably upset, demanded repairs, which totaled $15,000.
Thankfully, James had general liability insurance in place, which covered the full cost of the damages. His insurance provider handled the claim quickly, allowing James to focus on finishing the project and maintaining his relationship with the homeowner.
Without this coverage, James would have had to pay the $15,000 out of pocket, which could have delayed payroll for his team or put a serious strain on his business finances.
This situation highlights why having the right insurance isn’t optional for roofing contractors—it’s a lifeline. Unexpected accidents, even minor ones, can quickly turn into costly liabilities.
How Invoice Fly Can Help Setting Up your Roofing Insurance
Managing your insurance-related tasks can be time-consuming, but roofing software makes it easier.
Here’s how:
- Use Invoice Maker to send fast and professional invoices.
- Receive fast payments with our Online Payments tool.
- Provide clients with proof of insurance through a Client Portal.
Final Thoughts
Roofing insurance is what keeps your business standing strong when the unexpected happens.
Whether it’s a tool falling off a roof, an employee injury, or a client issue, having the right coverage means you can handle it all without breaking a sweat or risking everything you’ve worked so hard to build.
But insurance doesn’t just protect you from disasters; it opens doors to bigger opportunities. Knowing you’re covered means you can confidently bid on larger, more lucrative projects and work with higher-profile clients who demand proof of coverage.
It signals to your clients that you’re professional, reliable, and prepared for anything, helping you build trust and grow your reputation in the industry. With the right coverage, you’re not just surviving—you’re thriving.
FAQs About Roofing Insurance
Yes, but only under certain conditions. Homeowners insurance typically covers roof damage caused by sudden, unexpected events like storms or fires. However, it may not cover roof leaks due to wear and tear or poor maintenance.
Most insurance policies depreciate coverage for older roofs. If a roof is over 20 years old, insurers may only offer actual cash value coverage, which factors in depreciation.
The cost depends on your deductible and the type of coverage. For example, if your roof repair costs $10,000 and your deductible is $2,000, your insurance will cover $8,000.
- Document the damage with photos.
- File a claim with your insurer.
- Provide an estimate from a licensed roofing contractor..
As a roofer, you should always have your certificate of insurance (COI) and bond documentation ready to share with potential clients. The COI should clearly show your policy numbers, coverage limits, and expiration dates.
Keep in mind that clients may also verify this information online through state or local licensing boards, so ensure your records are accurate and up to date.
Roofing insurance costs vary depending on factors like the size of your business, the number of employees, coverage limits, and your location.
For example, larger businesses or those with higher revenues generally pay more due to increased risk exposure.
Similarly, having more employees will raise the cost of workers’ compensation insurance.
On average, general liability insurance for roofing businesses costs between $1,200 and $2,500 annually, while workers’ compensation insurance typically ranges from $5,000 to $8,000 per year, depending on the number of employees.
Additional policies, such as commercial auto insurance, cost around $1,500 to $3,000 annually per vehicle, and tools and equipment coverage costs $300 to $800 per year.
