Roofers vs General Contractors: Insurance Cost & Coverage Comparison
Understand how insurance costs, requirements, and coverage differ between roofing contractors and general contractors in California.
Overview: Key Differences
Roofers and general contractors face different insurance costs and coverage requirements due to their distinct risk profiles. Roofing is classified as a high-risk trade due to fall hazards, while general contractors manage multiple trades and subcontractors.
Workers' Compensation Rates
Roofing (C-39)
$3.50–$5.50 per $100 of payroll — Highest rates due to fall risk
General Contracting (Class B)
$1.80–$2.80 per $100 of payroll — Lower rates (supervise work vs perform it)
Example: A roofer with $200k payroll pays ~$7,000–$11,000/year. A GC with same payroll pays ~$3,600–$5,600/year.
General Liability Coverage
Roofers
$1M/$2M minimum — Covers fall injuries, property damage, completed operations
General Contractors
$1M/$2M minimum — Same limits, but often higher premiums due to subcontractor liability
CSLB License Requirements
Roofers (C-39)
WC required, GL required, $25k bond, 4 years experience
General Contractors (Class B)
WC required, GL required, $25k bond, 4 years experience, 2+ trades
Annual Insurance Cost Estimate (Single Employee)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do roofers pay more for insurance?
Roofing has one of the highest fall injury rates in construction. Workers' comp rates reflect this risk. Additionally, roof work often requires completed operations coverage, which adds cost.
Can a general contractor do roofing work?
Class B general contractors can manage roofing projects but cannot perform the work themselves. If they perform roofing, they must have a C-39 license. Insurance must reflect actual work performed.
Do roofers need umbrella insurance?
Yes, many roofers carry $1M–$2M umbrella policies to protect against catastrophic claims. General contractors also often use umbrella coverage for large projects.
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