Every roofer understands the importance of working safely at height. Yet even the most experienced tradesperson cannot always prevent accidents. Falling tiles, dislodged tools, and unsecured materials can lead to damage or injury. These events are not theoretical, they are real risks with real financial consequences.

This is where roofer insurance comes in. It can help reduce exposure to legal claims and unexpected costs that arise when something goes wrong on site.

A Closer Look at Tile-Related Insurance Claims

We have seen cases where a single misplaced tile has led to substantial losses. Some examples include:

• A tile falling onto a parked car, leading to a costly third-party damage claim
• Pedestrians injured by falling debris, resulting in legal fees and compensation payouts
• Property damage to conservatories or driveways when roofing materials slip during works

These types of incidents often form the basis of claims made under public liability insurance for roofers, which can help cover both legal defence and compensation awards.

What Types of Insurance Could Roofers and Scaffolders Need?

Roofing and scaffolding work involve a unique set of risks. We support contractors in finding insurance solutions tailored to these demands. Core policies often include:

Public Liability Insurance

This is commonly sought after by roofing professionals and could help cover damage to third-party property or injuries to others. It is often required by commercial clients before any work can begin.

Employers’ Liability Insurance

If you hire staff, even on a part-time or subcontractor basis, this cover is typically a legal requirement. It can help protect against claims arising from employee injuries on site.

Tools and Equipment Insurance

Tools left in vans or on scaffolding structures are vulnerable to theft and weather damage. This cover may assist in replacing essential items quickly.

Contract Works Insurance

Roofers working on active builds or renovations may face risks such as fire, flood or vandalism affecting the work in progress. Contract works cover can offer a financial safety net.

Personal Accident Insurance

If you suffer an injury on site and cannot work for a time, this cover could provide income support during recovery.

Sole Traders Are Not Exempt from Risk

Many self-employed roofers or scaffolders assume their risk is lower. However, we have seen claims made against individual tradespeople just as often as larger teams. A single tile or plank falling from height can lead to expensive third-party claims, regardless of company size.

Even if you only take on one job per week, roofer insurance for self-employed contractors can help manage the serious risks that come with working at height.

Lessons from Real Claims

Some common themes have emerged across roofing and scaffolding claims:

• Accidents often involve members of the public, not the roofer themselves
• Claims are not always immediate, with legal letters often arriving weeks after the incident
• Tool theft continues to be one of the most frequent causes of interruption
  
  

Without the right insurance, these claims can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses, loss of contracts, or even legal action.

Helping You Find the Right Protection

We support roofers and scaffolders by helping them find policies that reflect the realities of working at height. Whether you are concerned about falling tiles, injured passers-by, or stolen tools, the right insurance solution could help protect your business from the financial impact of unexpected events.