Roofing Insurance Explained — What Every UK Contractor Needs
Insurance is not just a legal or administrative requirement — it is the foundation of your professional credibility as a roofing contractor. Homeowners increasingly ask to see proof of insurance before hiring a roofer, and accreditation schemes like the Roofing Protection Scheme require it as a mandatory condition of membership. This guide explains the types of insurance roofing contractors need, what they cover, and how to make sure you have the right level of protection.
Public Liability Insurance — The Essential Starting Point
Public liability insurance (PLI) is the most important insurance policy for any roofing contractor. It protects you if you accidentally cause damage to a client's property or if a member of the public is injured as a result of your work.
In roofing, the risks are real. A tile falling from a roof could damage a car, injure a passerby, or break a window. A poorly sealed joint could cause water ingress that damages interior decoration, flooring, or electrical systems. Without PLI, you would be personally liable for the cost of these damages — which can run into tens of thousands of pounds.
Most accreditation schemes, including the Roofing Protection Scheme, require a minimum of £1 million PLI cover. In practice, £2 million is becoming the standard for most contractors, and £5 million or more is expected for larger commercial contracts.
Employer's Liability Insurance — Required If You Have Employees
If you employ anyone — including casual labour, apprentices, or part-time workers — employer's liability insurance (ELI) is a legal requirement in the UK. It covers claims made by employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their work with you.
The legal minimum ELI cover is £5 million, and your certificate must be displayed (physically or digitally) and be available for inspection. Failure to hold valid ELI when you have employees is a criminal offence and can result in a fine of up to £2,500 per day.
Tools and Equipment Cover
Your tools and equipment represent a significant investment. Tools cover protects your equipment against theft, loss, or accidental damage — including when tools are in your van overnight or on site. Many standard home and van insurance policies do not adequately cover trade tools, so a dedicated tools policy is worth considering.
Van and Vehicle Insurance
If you use a van or other vehicle for work purposes, your vehicle insurance must reflect this. Standard private car insurance does not cover vehicles used for business purposes. You need commercial vehicle insurance that covers the vehicle for use in connection with your trade.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
Professional indemnity (PI) insurance covers claims made against you for errors in professional advice or design work. For most roofing contractors working solely in installation and repair, PI insurance is not typically required — but if you provide any kind of consultancy, surveying, or design service, it is worth considering.
Checking Your Policy Covers Roofing Work
Not all public liability policies automatically cover work at height or roofing specifically. Always check your policy carefully and ensure it explicitly covers your work type, including working at height, use of scaffolding or ladders, and the specific types of roofing systems you install.
If you are uncertain, speak to an insurance broker who specialises in the construction and roofing sector. They can advise on appropriate cover levels and ensure your policy is structured correctly.
Insurance and Accreditation
When you apply to join the Roofing Protection Scheme, we verify your public liability insurance as part of the membership application process. This means that homeowners who find you through the RPS directory can be confident that your insurance is current and has been independently confirmed.
Maintaining your insurance is not just a regulatory requirement — it is a fundamental part of your professional credibility. Apply to join the Roofing Protection Scheme and demonstrate to homeowners that your insurance has been verified by an independent authority.