Roofer risk profile

Shahn Christensen
June 08, 2025

Here’s a comprehensive Roofer Risk Profile structured for underwriting, insurance analysis, or business risk management purposes. This can be used to evaluate exposures, coverage needs, or guide risk mitigation strategies.

🏗️ Roofer Risk Profile

1. Industry Overview

NAICS Code: 238160 – Roofing Contractors
SIC Code: 1761 – Roofing, Siding, and Sheet Metal Work
Common Operations: Installation, repair, replacement, and inspection of commercial and residential roofs using materials such as asphalt shingles, tiles, slate, EPDM, TPO, PVC, and metal.

2. Key Risk Categories

🛠️ Operational Risks

Risk Type	Description
Height Exposure	Elevated work increases fall risk, especially on steep-slope or multi-story buildings.
Tool & Equipment Hazards	Use of nail guns, torch-down systems, power tools can lead to injuries.
Weather Conditions	Slippery or unstable surfaces due to rain, snow, or wind; heat stress in summer.
Material Handling	Lifting heavy bundles of shingles and materials creates ergonomic and musculoskeletal risks.

🔥 Fire Risk

Source	Description
Torch-applied Roofing	Open flame application can cause fire damage to buildings or surroundings.
Improper Disposal	Hot tar, used rags, and chemicals can lead to spontaneous combustion or fires.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Labor & HR Risks

Risk Type	Description
Employee Injury	High frequency of workers’ comp claims due to falls, lacerations, back injuries.
Subcontractor Liability	Improper vetting or lack of insurance by subs may increase GC exposure.
Wage & Hour Claims	Piecework pay or cash-based labor may result in DOL or IRS scrutiny.

🚧 Liability Exposures

Risk Type	Description
Third-party Injury	Falling tools/materials may injure pedestrians or damage vehicles/property.
Defective Work	Improper installation may lead to water damage, mold, or structural failure.
Contractual Liability	Exposure increased if assuming responsibility via indemnity agreements.

🏚️ Property Risks

Risk Type	Description
Tools & Equipment Theft	High-value items stored in unsecured trucks or job sites.
Inland Marine	Mobile tools and materials transported between jobs.
Property Damage During Work	Existing structure or landscaping damaged during tear-off or install.

📑 Regulatory/Compliance Risks

Requirement	Description
Licensing & Permits	Roofing contractors often require state/county licensing.
OSHA Compliance	Fall protection, PPE, and scaffolding rules strictly enforced.
Contract Law	Compliance with lien laws, bonded work, and written warranties.

3. Insurance Considerations

Coverage Line	Notes
General Liability (CGL)	Must include coverage for completed operations; watch for height exclusions or residential limitations.
Workers’ Compensation	High-mod class risk. Critical for avoiding sub/employee misclassification issues.
Commercial Auto	Includes transportation of crews, trailers with ladders, or hot tar kettles.
Inland Marine / Equipment Floater	Covers tools, compressors, nail guns, and mobile trailers.
Umbrella / Excess Liability	Recommended for jobs over $1M or with GC contracts requiring high limits.
Professional Liability (E&O)	If providing roof inspections, design, or moisture consulting.
Installation Floater	Protects materials waiting to be installed at the job site.
Builder’s Risk (if acting as GC)	Coverage during construction for new or renovation projects.

4. Risk Mitigation Best Practices

Use fall protection plans, harnesses, and railing systems.
Perform daily safety briefings and job hazard analyses.
Maintain subcontractor compliance with COIs and hold harmless agreements.
Train crews on ladder safety, heat exhaustion, and tool operation.
Implement equipment security and anti-theft GPS tagging.
Conduct pre- and post-job inspections to limit disputes.

5. Red Flags for Underwriters

No formal safety program or documented training.
Sole proprietors with multiple 1099 “helpers.”
Torch work with no hot work protocols or fire watch.
No fall protection on jobs over 10 feet.
High % of residential reroofs with open claim history.

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