The roof is one of the prominent home features that keep the family and property protected from various outdoor elements. Therefore, homeowners need to hire a roofer who is not only skilled, certified, and experienced but also insured.

Roofing is not a simple, straightforward job. It involves a considerable amount of risk, which should not be neglected while looking for the right contractor. Whether the home roofing project is big or small, hiring an insured roofer will save time and money and ensure a safe, high-quality installation.

Before signing any contract with a roofer, homeowners should look at the proof of valid workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. They help safeguard the homeowner’s interest if a mishap or an untoward incident occurs during the roofing project.

IMPORTANCE OF HIRING AN INSURED ROOFER

Here are several reasons that highlight the need for working with an insured roofer for the next roofing project:

1. PROTECTS FROM BEING HELD LIABLE FOR WORKER INJURY

Roofing work is not free from hazards. Even the most experienced roofer can misjudge situations and accidentally fall from the ladder or injure themselves with a hammer while installing shingles. When the roofer has worker’s compensation insurance, it will cover all the medical or lost wages expenses if any roofer gets injured or falls sick while working. It also offers assistance to the worker’s family if the injury proves to be fatal. If the roofer is not insured, the homeowner can be held responsible and might end up paying all the injury recovery costs.

2. COVERS ANY ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE CAUSED TO THE PROPERTY

Roofing involves the use of heavy-duty tools and materials. If a contractor accidentally drops a tile from the roof height, it can severely injure anyone standing beneath or damage the floor tiles, window, or a parked car. When a roofer makes any error while installing or repairing a roof and damages any nearby structure, the general liability insurance will cover it. It protects the homeowner from paying for any accidental property damage or injury to a non-worker during the roofing project.

3. BUILDS TRUST AND CREDIBILITY

When a homeowner looks for a roofer, they want someone who can be trusted with what is considered the most expensive home improvement project. A roofer with adequate insurance indicates that they are legitimate, take their work seriously, and stand behind the team. It keeps the homeowner stress-free.

Usually, general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance cover bodily injury, property damage, personal injury, medical payments, advertising injury, and wage replacement. Not all roofing contractors have the same insurance. Factors like the kind of work a roofer does and the state in which they operate govern the type of policy they have.

4. THEY SOLVE PROBLEMS IMMEDIATELY

In some situations, the damage to the home needs immediate temporary repairs. If a tree branch created a hole in the roof, you need a contractor who can apply emergency solutions to stop water from entering the home. The roofing contractor with insurance experience can do this.

They can document the problem immediately for insurance purposes. Then, they provide specific solutions to shore up the issue until insurance approves the claim for repair. This minimizes further damage to your home.

CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY

Once you find a roofer you trust and feel is right for the job, contact your insurer. Be sure they agree with the contractor selected. Most insurers will not approve any contractor that lacks certification, insurance, and bonding.

COMMUNICATE WITH THE INSURER

Your insurer may wish to discuss the project with the roofer one-on-one. This is not common. However, the best roofing contractors understand the insurance world is complex and are willing to share information and guidance with your insurance company. That makes the process much easier for you.

THEY WORK TO GET THE JOB DONE

Some insurers require documentation of the completed project. They may require a formal inspection to ensure the work is complete. The contractor can work closely with the insurer to make sure this is on-spec.