Working in a construction trade like roofing requires specialized expertise, high-quality workmanship, strict adherence to safety, and compliance with local building codes. Although most roofing installations and repairs may be run-of-the-mill, a small error, materials theft, or a worksite injury can result in significant financial and legal liabilities. For instance, a damaged or unstable ladder can send a roofer tumbling to the ground, a storm that damages your unfinished roof installation can be a costly fix, or customer materials stolen from a work truck can cause project delays and hurt your reputation.
Whether you’re a roofer with a single work truck, a subcontractor, or a large roofing contractor with a fleet of business vehicles, a comprehensive commercial insurance policy provides the liability protection that your roofing company needs to protect its financial assets and maintain compliance with Florida law.
The Importance Of Commercial Insurance for Roofers
Florida law requires all roofers to carry commercial liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Our climate, with its high humidity, frequent rain, and occasional hurricanes, adds to the risk. Having the right commercial insurance policy protects your business from the significant costs associated with a lawsuit, a major accident, or property damage. Additionally, general contractors and many clients will not hire a roofer who cannot provide proof of insurance.
What Kind of Coverage Do Roofers Need in Florida?
To ensure complete coverage, roofers should consider the following types of policies:
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Florida law mandates that any construction business, including roofing, with just one or more employees must carry a workers comp policy. It covers medical bills and some of the lost wages for an employee who is injured on the job, protecting your business and customers from costly lawsuits.
General Liability Insurance
General liability is an essential policy that covers your business in the event of third-party bodily injury and property damage claims. For example, if a stray piece of debris from your worksite breaks a window or if falling materials injure a visitor, this policy would cover the resulting repair and medical costs.
Commercial Auto Insurance
If you use a vehicle in your business, such as a van to transport tools and supplies, you must have a commercial auto policy. It is essential coverage that insures your vehicles from accidents, theft, and damage.
Tools & Equipment Floater
This policy is vital for roofers. It protects your valuable equipment, tools, and materials from theft, damage, or loss while being transported in your vehicle to or from a job site or in storage at a temporary location.
How Much is Insurance for a Roofing Company in Florida?
The cost of insurance for a roofing company in Florida can vary widely, as it is a high-risk trade. Premiums are determined by several factors, including your company’s size, its claims history, location, and the type of work you perform. However, a small roofing company with a standard $1 million policy can expect annual premiums to range from $3,000 to $8,000.
What’s Covered
A typical commercial insurance package for a roofer in Florida would cover:
- Employee Injuries
- Vehicle Accidents
- Legal Costs
- Stolen or Damaged Tools
- Third-Party Bodily Injury
- Third-Party Property Damage
What’s Not Covered
- Intentional damage
- Poor performance
- Personal vehicles*
- Flood damage*
- Earthquake damage*
*Add-on coverage may be available for these and other risks. Check your policy for other limitations/exclusions.
Other Coverage Options for Roofing Contractors
Talk to your CIS agent about other insurance options that your firm may need, such as:
Commercial Umbrella Insurance provides an extra layer of liability protection that extends the limits of your underlying policies, such as General Liability and Commercial Auto, for large, catastrophic claims.
Commercial Property Insurance provides coverage for your office space, warehouse, and tools and equipment stored at your business location from risks like fire, theft, and vandalism.
The Best Insurance for Roofing Contractors Near Me
At Commercial Insurance Specialists, we are a Trusted Choice independent agency, dedicated to providing exceptional service and a wide range of insurance options tailored to the unique needs of roofing contractors and subcontractors in the West-Central Florida area. Our flexibility allows us to explore and compare policies from various top-rated insurers, ensuring you receive the professional liability coverage that best fits your needs and budget. We serve clients across many fields, including masonry and concrete contractors, electricians, and home inspectors from Sarasota County to Polk County, including Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Riverview, and Lakeland.
Just give CIS a call, and a licensed and independent agent will shop for the best rates and coverage options for your business from top-rated insurers. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation general liability insurance quote!
