Roofer Insurance
Specialist high-risk cover for roofers. Height work, falls, and work-at-height protection.
Roofing is classified as one of the highest-risk trades in New Zealand. Working at height, handling heavy materials, and navigating uneven roof surfaces creates significant injury risk. Falls from height are among the mo...
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Roofer Insurance
Roofing is classified as one of the highest-risk trades in New Zealand. Working at height, handling heavy materials, and navigating uneven roof surfaces creates significant injury risk. Falls from height are among the most common and serious construction injuries. Because of this, insurers classify roofers as high-risk, resulting in higher premiums than most trades. Roofers need high public liability coverage (typically NZ$2 million or more), tools and equipment insurance, commercial vehicle insurance, and statutory liability for WorkSafe compliance. Fall prevention and safety training are essential, as are personal protective equipment (harnesses, fall arrest systems). WorkSafe has strict requirements for height work. Insurance costs for roofers are among the highest of any trade, typically ranging from NZ$150–350+ per month, reflecting the genuine risks involved.
Key Features of Your Cover
Recommended Cover for Roofer Insurance
Public Liability Insurance
→ Learn moreProtect against third-party injury and property damage claims. Legally required for most NZ construction and council work.
Tools & Equipment Insurance
→ Learn moreProtect your tools from theft and accidental damage. Coverage up to NZ$30,000+ with new-for-old replacement.
Commercial Vehicle Insurance
→ Learn moreComprehensive cover for utes, vans, and trucks used for work. Includes roadside assistance and optional tool cover.
Statutory Liability Insurance
→ Learn moreProtect against WorkSafe NZ fines, penalties, and regulatory investigation costs.
Height Work and WorkSafe Requirements
Roofing is heavily regulated by WorkSafe NZ. Work at height (any work above 2 metres) requires specific safety controls: harnesses, fall arrest systems, scaffolding, or work platforms. WorkSafe conducts regular inspections of roofing sites. Non-compliance results in fines and prosecution. Your public liability and statutory liability insurance should account for these regulatory requirements. Safety training and equipment are mandatory, not optional.
High-Risk Classification and Premium Impact
Roofers are classified as high-risk due to fall hazards and injury rates. This classification results in higher premiums than most other trades. Your personal safety record (claims history) and safety practices (harness use, training, supervision) directly impact premiums. Demonstrating strong safety culture can reduce costs.
Tools and Materials
Roofing tools—nail guns, drills, saws, levels, and safety equipment—are vulnerable to theft and damage. Tools & equipment insurance is essential. Ensure fall protection equipment (harnesses, lanyards) is covered, as these are expensive and critical for safety.
Who Should Take Out This Cover?
- →Residential roofers
- →Commercial roofing contractors
- →Roof restoration and repair specialists
- →Tile and slate roofers
- →Metal roofing installers
- →Roofing teams and companies
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is roofer insurance so expensive?
Roofing is one of the highest-risk trades in NZ. Falls from height are common and often serious. Insurers classify roofers as high-risk, resulting in higher premiums reflecting genuine injury and liability exposure.
What safety equipment is required for roof work?
WorkSafe requires fall protection equipment: harnesses, lanyards, fall arrest systems, or safe work platforms. Personal protective equipment (helmet, hi-visibility, non-slip boots) is mandatory. Safety training is also required.
How much public liability should a roofer have?
Minimum NZ$2 million, often NZ$5 million or higher. High coverage limits reflect the potential scale of claims from height work and serious injuries.
What happens if someone falls from a roof on my job?
Report it immediately to your insurer, to WorkSafe (if serious/notifiable), and to emergency services. Your public liability covers injury costs. WorkSafe will investigate; statutory liability covers penalties (assuming compliance with safety requirements).
Is fall protection equipment covered under tools insurance?
Yes—harnesses, lanyards, and fall arrest equipment are typically covered under tools & equipment policies. Ensure these high-value safety items are specifically included.
Insurance for Other Trades
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Average premium for
Roofer Insurance
Premium varies by business size, claims history, and project types. Get a personalised quote for accurate pricing.
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