But what exactly is required for roofers, and what additional coverage is smart to have? Let’s break it down.
What Is Workers Compensation?
Workers compensation is insurance that covers medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation if an employee gets hurt on the job. It also protects your business from lawsuits related to workplace injuries.
For roofers, where risks are higher than average, this isn’t just a safety net—it’s a must-have.
What’s Required
- Most states require workers compensation if you have employees. Even if you only hire one roofer, you’re likely obligated to carry coverage.
- Independent contractors may also need it. Some states classify roofers as high-risk trades and require proof of workers compensation even if you’re self-employed.
- Penalties can be steep. Fines, stop-work orders, and personal liability for claims can hit hard if you don’t have coverage.
What’s Smart
Beyond meeting the legal minimum, smart roofing contractors think strategically about their coverage:
- Cover yourself. Even if you’re the owner, consider adding coverage for yourself. An accident could put you out of work, and health insurance alone may not cover everything.
- Subcontractor coverage. If you use subs, make sure they carry their own valid workers compensation, or you could be held responsible for their injuries.
- Extra protection. Pairing workers compensation with general liability and commercial auto coverage creates a stronger safety net for your business.
Real-World Risks Roofers Face
- A slip off a ladder results in a broken leg and months off the job.
- Heat exhaustion leads to hospitalization during a summer project.
- A falling tool injures a team member below.
In each case, workers compensation helps cover medical care and lost income while keeping your business from footing the entire bill.
Workers Compensation for Roofers vs. General Contractors
It’s important to note that workers compensation requirements and risks look different for roofers compared to general contractors.
- Roofers face higher risks. Roofing is consistently ranked among the most hazardous construction trades, with falls and heat exposure being top concerns. Because of this, many states classify roofers separately and often require stricter workers compensation compliance, even for small crews or sole proprietors.
- General contractors have broader, layered risk. While general contractors are responsible for overall project safety, they often don’t perform the same high-risk tasks themselves. Instead, their risk comes from managing multiple trades, coordinating subcontractors, and ensuring compliance. If a roofer working under a general contractor is injured and doesn’t carry valid workers compensation, the general contractor could still be held liable.
- The bottom line: Roofers are more likely to be required to carry workers compensation because of the physical danger of the work itself. General contractors, on the other hand, may be able to shift risk contractually, but they still need coverage to protect themselves from liability tied to their subcontractors’ injuries.
Final Thoughts
Workers compensation for roofers isn’t just about compliance, it’s about protecting your team and your business. Meeting the legal requirements is step one, but going beyond them is simply smart business.
At Leavitt Select Insurance, we understand the unique risks roofers face every day. Our team can help you make sense of your state’s requirements and build a policy that not only keeps you compliant but also protects your livelihood.
Not sure if your workers compensation coverage is where it should be? Contact us today to talk with one of our local advisors.
