Written by Michael Foote, Insurance Expert
Roofing is one of the higher-risk trades in the construction sector, and insurers price cover accordingly. Roofers’ insurance usually combines public liability, employers’ liability, tools and equipment cover, and sometimes contract works insurance. Costs vary widely depending on business size, staff numbers, and the type of roofing work carried out.
Typical Cost of Roofers Insurance
Roofers insurance in the UK typically ranges from £1,800 to £6,000+ per year.
- Sole trader roofers (no staff): from around £1,800–£2,500 annually
- Small firms (2–5 roofers): usually £2,500–£4,000 annually
- Larger contractors (6+ roofers): often £4,500–£6,000+ annually
Premiums are higher than many other trades due to the risks of working at height, potential injury claims, and property damage.
What Affects the Cost of Roofers Insurance?
- Business size & staff numbers – Employers’ liability premiums rise with headcount.
- Type of roofing – Flat roofing with heat application is often higher risk (and costlier) than pitched tile work.
- Turnover – Higher turnover signals more projects and greater risk exposure.
- Claims history – Prior accidents or liability claims raise premiums.
- Equipment value – Specialist tools and machinery push up sums insured.
- Location – Some regions have higher accident or theft rates.
- Cover levels – Public liability can be set at £1m, £2m, £5m, or higher, depending on contracts.
Worked Examples (Illustrative)
Example A: Sole trader roofer
- Works alone, turnover £120k, pitched tile work only
- No staff, clean claims record
- Expected premium: £1,800–£2,200 annually
Example B: Small roofing team
- 3 employees, turnover £450k, pitched and flat roofing mix
- Public liability £5m, one minor claim in last 3 years
- Expected premium: £2,800–£3,600 annually
Example C: Mid-size roofing contractor
- 8 staff, turnover £1.2m, specialist flat roofing
- Public liability £10m for council contracts, employers’ liability £10m
- Expected premium: £5,000–£6,000+ annually
Comparison Table
| Business type | Typical annual cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sole trader roofer | £1,800–£2,500 | Works alone, no staff |
| Small firm (2–5 roofers) | £2,500–£4,000 | Employers’ liability included |
| Large contractor (6+ staff) | £4,500–£6,000+ | Higher turnover, large projects |
Get An Accurate Cost Today
Every roofing business is different and so is the cost of insurance. The only way to know what you’ll pay is to compare policies tailored to your staff, turnover, and work type. We work with a roofing insurance specialist, click Get Quotes below to get an accurate price for your business.
Roofing Insurance Cost Calculator
This is for illustrative purposes. Click the Get Quotes button below for a no-obligation quote or expert advice.
FAQs About Roofers Insurance Costs
Why is roofers insurance more expensive than other trades?
Because of the risks of working at height, injury potential, and property damage from falling materials.
Does flat roofing cost more to insure?
Yes. Use of heat (e.g. torches, bitumen boilers) increases fire risk, raising premiums.
Can I choose my public liability limit?
Yes. Many sole traders opt for £2m cover, but contracts with councils or housing associations often require £5m–£10m.
Will more staff always increase my premium?
Generally yes, since employers’ liability scales with employee numbers, but risk controls (training, PPE, supervision) can keep costs competitive.