Why Is It Important You Hire an Insured Roofer?
Uninsured roofing contractors can cause damage to your home, leaving you with the mess and the additional cost to repair it. If they don’t have insurance, you are also held liable in case they fall off a ladder and break their neck.
Even if you have homeowners’ insurance, roofing accidents aren’t necessarily covered. Play it safe. Make sure your roofer is insured. Don’t just assume they are. I know for a fact that there are uninsured contractors out there.
It’s not even required for contractors to be insured in all states, but it is definitely in your best interest to hire someone who is not only licensed and bonded, but also insured. You may be tempted to hire a contractor who isn’t because their rates are cheaper. Trust me, you don’t want to skimp on this. Too many things could go wrong.
Angie’s List puts it this way: if a contractor doesn’t follow good business practices in being licensed, bonded, and insured, what other corners are they cutting?
What Does Roofing Insurance Cover?
Your roofing contractor and all subcontractors should be covered under general contractor liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
Liability Insurance: If the contractor has liability insurance, you’ll be protected in case they cause major damage to your house. If a contractor did a faulty roofing job on your house, and s/he is uninsured, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover the damages.
Worker’s Compensation Insurance: According to Trusted Choice, if employees are injured, worker’s compensation insurance covers medical treatment, disability and lost wages.
Angie’s List paints a picture of why it’s so important not just you but also your contractor have insurance. If a contractor without worker’s compensation insurance is injured on your property, even if your homeowner’s insurance helps cover his or her injuries, your insurance premiums could skyrocket. This situation can also make it hard to get insured in the future.
How to Verify Your Roofing Contractor Is Insured
Danny Lipford of Today’s Homeowner recommends asking your roofing contractor for a certificate of insurance that proves they have both workers’ compensation and general liability coverage of at least $1 million.
This FAQ from Construction Contractors Board advises that you verify with the CCB that the contractor’s license is currently active and that their insurance and bond are up to date. If they have a nonexempt license, it means they have workman’s comp insurance. If they are exempt (have no employees) ask if they carry workman’s comp for themselves.
And remember: If a contractor refuses to show you their insurance certificate, move on to the next one.
At Fivecoat Roofing Inc., we don’t cut corners. We are licensed, bonded, and insured (and we’re happy to show you proof). Contact us today for your free, no-obligation roof estimate.
Sources:
- Angie’s List: What are the risks of hiring an unlicensed contractor?
- Liability Insurance Frequently Asked Questions
- A Roofer Is a Top 5 Dangerous Job. Protect Yourself.
- How to Hire a Roofer for Your Home
