Licensing and Insurance: Why They Matter When Choosing a Roofing Contractor

When choosing a roofing contractor, most Sydney homeowners consider cost, materials, and timelines. But before you get to any of that, there’s something more important to check: whether the contractor is properly licensed and insured.

This might sound like a formality, but it’s not. Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured roofer can leave you exposed to liability, shoddy work, or disputes you’re powerless to resolve. At Sydney Discount Roof Repair, we believe informed clients make better decisions. That starts with knowing what protections you’re entitled to.

For anyone exploring how to choose a roofing contractor, this is step one.

What Is a Roofing Licence—and Why Does It Matter?

In NSW, any contractor performing work valued over $5,000 (including labour and materials) must hold a valid licence issued by NSW Fair Trading. Depending on the work they do, roofing contractors may be licensed in roof tiling, roof plumbing, or metal roofing.

A valid licence means the contractor has met certain training, experience, and business ethics standards. It also gives you recourse if something goes wrong—because you’re working with a registered professional, not just a tradesperson “on the side.”

How to check:Ask for the licence number and verify it using the NSW Fair Trading licence check tool.

The Role of Insurance

While a licence helps ensure competency, insurance protects you financially. Any roofer working on your home should have:

• Public liability insurance – Covers accidental damage to your property or third parties
  
• Workers’ compensation insurance – Protects workers if they’re injured on the job
  

Without these, you could be held personally liable if someone is hurt or if damage occurs during the job.

Tip: Always request a certificate of currency for both policies before signing a contract.

What Could Go Wrong Without It?

Homeowners who hire unlicensed or uninsured contractors often face:

• Poor workmanship with no pathway for legal resolution
  
• Out-of-pocket costs for damage caused by workers
  
• Voided warranties on roofing materials
  
• Council or compliance issues when applying for permits or resale
  

These risks often don’t show up until it’s too late, making it critical to check credentials before work begins.

When Comparing Quotes, Don’t Skip This Step

It’s tempting to go with the cheapest quote, especially for a big-ticket job like roofing. But if that price doesn’t include licensed, insured labour, it’s not a deal—it’s a liability.

If you’re evaluating multiple offers, make sure licensing and insurance are included as non-negotiables. Our guide to comparing roofing quotes walks through how to read between the lines of each estimate, so you’re not caught off guard later.

Use a Checklist to Keep Track

When speaking with contractors, it helps to keep everything organised. A simple checklist can ensure you don’t forget to request insurance documents, confirm licence numbers, or verify their validity.

Not sure what to include? Our roofing contractor checklist is a step-by-step guide to help you track your vetting process and make a confident decision.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a licensed and insured roofing contractor isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting your home, your money, and your peace of mind. While not all risks can be avoided, this one can.

At Sydney Discount Roof Repair, we welcome questions about our qualifications, insurance coverage, and experience. We believe trust starts with transparency, and we’re proud to meet the highest standards of roofing compliance in NSW.