Over time, your roof will need replacing, which isn’t really a do-it-yourself project in most cases. Replacing or repairing a roof can come with inherent dangers. While you feel confident in a professional roofer’s abilities, accidents can still happen.
Think of a roofer slipping off the roof, and if they are not insured, you may find yourself responsible for paying for their injuries and any damage. Thankfully, there are insurance companies for roofers, but what kind of coverage do they need?
Types of Insurance for Roofers
Some states require all roofers and associated companies to carry insurance. If this applies to your state, you have nothing to worry about. All you need to do is find a qualified and affordable roofing contractor.
However, if your state leaves the option of carrying insurance up to the roofing company, it’s something you’ll want to research before signing a contract.
Roofers should carry two types of insurance: general liability and workers’ compensation. Don’t choose a company with only one type of insurance; it can open you to personal injury lawsuits. Even though your homeowner’s insurance will probably cover the expenses, it also typically means an increase in your rates.
General Liability Coverage
General liability insurance covers any property damage that may occur while your roof is being repaired or replaced. This type of comprehensive coverage also covers any project-related injuries to non-workers.
For example, if a friend is visiting and is hit by a falling shingle, the roofer’s liability insurance covers the expenses.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
A good rule to follow is to avoid hiring companies that do not protect their employees. Not only does it show a lack of care for their employees’ welfare, but it can also be an indicator of other unsavory business practices.
Workers’ compensation covers employees if they become sick or injured on the job and are prevented from returning to work. The injured worker will still receive an income while they are recovering. This type of insurance also goes a step further and can provide benefits to the employee’s family if the unthinkable happens. Unfortunately, falls can happen, and this can result in death.
You should also check the roofing company’s safety rating to minimize the chances of accidents happening in the first place.
What About a Bonded Roofing Company?
When a roofing company is bonded, it is an advantage. Bonding is a type of insurance that covers the financial aspects of the job. This doesn’t mean the roofers are insured against injury and property damage; instead, it almost guarantees you receive a refund if the project isn’t completed.
The roofing company may declare bankruptcy, or other unforeseen circumstances could prevent them from finishing or even starting your project. Even if you’ve only submitted a partial payment for the job, you can still get your money back if the company is reputable. The best advice when looking for a company is to only work with insured and bonded roofers for your own security and protection.
What About Licensing
Yes, it’s always better when your roofer is licensed and insured. However, licensing is not a requirement, and it doesn’t always mean the roofer has experience.
Manufacturers award licensing, which often means the roofer has extensive experience with a particular brand like Owens Corning or GAF. If you are using a specific brand of shingle, a roofer with a license from a different manufacturer isn’t going to make a difference in job quality.
However, the opposite is often true if you are going with a brand the roofer is certified in. The added level of experience with the brand’s products can help make your roofing project go a little more smoothly. The roofer will also be knowledgeable enough to answer most of your questions about the project.
How Do You Know if a Roofer Is Insured?
An easy way to find out if the roofer is insured is to ask for proof, typically a certificate from the insurance provider. Don’t forget to check the company name on the insurance documents to ensure their legitimacy.
While it’s extremely uncommon, some less reputable roofers may try to pass someone else’s insurance off as theirs. You can also do a little online research, and most states and cities keep a list of the insured roofers operating in the area.
Only Work with the Best Roofing Companies
When your roof needs attention, the costs can be off-putting, and it’s tempting to go with the company offering the lowest price. However, when it comes to roofing, you also get what you pay for-so it’s best to be diligent when choosing a partner.
To avoid potentially costly issues, it’s always best to hire roofers who carry both liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
Qrius does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this website. Reliance on any information appearing on this website is solely at your own risk.
This article does not endorse or express the views of Qrius and/or any of its staff.
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