Roofing has one of the highest workers comp rates of any trade — and for good reason. Falls from heights are the number one cause of construction fatalities, and roofing work puts employees at risk every day. Here’s what roofing contractors need to know about workers comp insurance.
Why Roofing Workers Comp Rates Are So High
The combination of heights, physical labor, weather exposure, and heavy materials makes roofing one of the most dangerous occupations. Workers comp carriers price roofing class codes accordingly — rates can range from $15 to $30+ per $100 of payroll depending on the state and your claims history.
Residential vs. Commercial Roofing Rates
Commercial roofing often carries a higher rate than residential work due to larger buildings and more complex roof systems. If your company does both, it’s important that payroll is properly split between the two class codes rather than lumped together under the higher commercial rate.
How to Manage Your Roofing Workers Comp Costs
The best thing a roofing contractor can do to control workers comp costs is maintain a clean safety record. Invest in proper fall protection equipment, conduct regular safety training, and document everything. Your experience modifier (EMR) directly reflects your claims history — a lower EMR means a lower premium.
Subcontractor Certificates of Insurance
If you use subcontractors for roofing work, require current certificates of insurance showing their workers comp coverage before any work begins. Without a COI, their payroll may be added to your policy at audit — significantly increasing your premium.
Get a Roofing Workers Comp Quote
Comp Matters Inc. works with roofing contractors across the East Coast. We understand the industry and find competitive rates even for high-risk trades. Call (631) 248-2500 or get a free quote online.
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