Updated April 2026 · Kael Tripton · Business Insurance Guide

Note: Premium figures are indicative market ranges based on published insurer and comparison data 2025-26. Your actual quote depends on trade, turnover, location, and cover level. Always compare FCA-authorised providers. This guide is for information only.

Roofer Public Liability Insurance UK 2026

Roofing is one of the highest-risk trades for third-party claims in the UK. Working at height creates substantial injury risk to bystanders and neighbouring properties. A falling tile, tool, or section of scaffolding can cause serious injury or significant property damage. Roofers need specialist public liability insurance that explicitly covers working at height and the specific risks of roofing work.

Why Roofer PL Insurance Costs More

Roofers pay higher premiums than many other trades because the statistical risk of serious claims is higher. Working at height is one of the most significant risk factors in insurance underwriting. The height limit up to which a standard tradesman policy covers work varies between providers - some policies exclude work above 5 metres without a specific height endorsement.

Always disclose the maximum heights at which you work and the types of roofing (domestic slate, flat roofing, commercial, industrial, leadwork, thatching) - different roofing types carry different risk profiles and some require specialist underwriting.

Cover Levels and Costs for Roofers

2 million: Minimum recommended for domestic roofing work.

5 million: Required for most commercial roofing contracts, local authority work, and any site where the main contractor requires proof of PL before allowing access.

10 million: Required for larger commercial and industrial projects.

Indicative annual costs 2026: sole-trader roofer (domestic only): 200-500 for 2 million; 350-800 for 5 million. Small roofing firm (2-5 roofers): 600-1,500+ depending on turnover and work type.

Specialist Covers for Roofers

Contract works insurance: Essential for roofers - an unfinished roof is extremely vulnerable to weather damage. Contract works cover protects materials and partially completed work against storm damage, fire, theft, and vandalism.

Height endorsement: Explicitly confirm that your policy covers work at the heights you actually work. Many standard policies limit coverage to 10-15 metres without a specific endorsement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do roofers need specialist insurance?

Yes. Roofers need specialist underwriting because of the height risk. Many standard tradesman policies have height restrictions or exclusions for roofing. Always get quotes specifically for roofing work and ensure the policy explicitly covers the heights and roof types you work on.

What happens if I dont have insurance and a tile falls and injures someone?

You are personally liable for all compensation and legal costs. A serious injury claim can easily exceed 500,000 including medical costs, loss of earnings, and care costs. Without insurance this comes from your personal finances. Criminal prosecution for health and safety offences may also follow.

Does roofing insurance cover storm damage to completed work?

Standard PL covers damage caused by your roofing work to the client property. Storm damage to completed work is generally the property owners insurance claim. If a defect in your work allows storm water ingress that causes damage, that is a PL claim.

Is there insurance for thatchers specifically?

Yes - thatching is a specialist roofing trade with specific fire risks. Specialist thatching insurance is available from NFU Mutual, Hiscox, and agricultural insurers. Standard roofing policies may not be appropriate for thatching work.

Conclusion

Roofer public liability insurance is specialist cover for one of the UKs highest-risk trades. Always ensure your policy explicitly covers the heights and roof types you work on. Include contract works cover for unfinished roofs. Choose at least 2 million for domestic and 5 million for commercial work. Compare from Simply Business, Hiscox, and specialist roofing insurance providers. Never work without adequate PL.

Last updated: April 2026. Data sourced from GoCompare, Simply Business, ABI and FCA published guidance. Business insurance is regulated by the FCA - verify providers at register.fca.org.uk. Employers liability insurance is a legal requirement - see gov.uk for details.