Why does a roofer need Workers Compensation Insurance?

A roofer needs Workers’ Compensation Insurance because roofing is one of the highest-risk construction trades, and workers are constantly exposed to serious injury hazards. Workers’ comp is not only legally required in most states but also essential for protecting both the roofer’s employees and the business itself from financial and legal consequences.

🧱 Top Reasons Roofers Need Workers' Compensation Insurance

1. Legal Requirement

• Mandated in almost every state if you have employees—even part-time or seasonal.

• Failing to carry it can result in hefty fines, stop-work orders, and even criminal charges.

2. High-Risk Work Environment

• Roofing involves:

  • Working at heights (falls are the #1 cause of fatal construction injuries)

  • Sloped and unstable surfaces

  • Heavy lifting and repetitive strain

  • Use of hazardous tools and materials

• Injury potential is high, even with safety protocols.

3. Covers Medical Bills and Lost Wages

• If an employee falls or gets injured on-site:

  • Workers’ comp pays for emergency care, rehab, surgery, and prescriptions.

  • It also provides partial wage replacement during recovery.

• Without it, the business owner may be personally liable for these expenses.

4. Protects the Business from Lawsuits

• Employees typically cannot sue their employer for a job-related injury if workers’ comp is in place.

• This reduces litigation risk and shields the business from costly settlements or court judgments.

5. Supports Hiring & Contracting

• GCs often require proof of workers’ comp before allowing subcontractors on job sites.

• Many states prohibit using “1099” contractors to avoid workers’ comp—misclassification audits can be devastating.

📊 Common Injury Examples in Roofing

🚫 What Happens Without Workers’ Comp?

• You may be sued directly by the injured worker.

• Medical providers can come after your business.

• You may face stop-work orders or lose commercial contracts.

• Contractors’ licenses can be suspended or revoked in some states.

✅ Summary

• Meets legal requirements

• Covers costly job-site injuries

• Reduces the risk of lawsuits

• Enables growth by allowing them to work with GCs and hire workers safely