How to Check a Roofer's Public Liability Insurance in NZ

Hiring a roofer without checking their insurance is a risk you don't want to take. If a worker is injured on your property, or your home is damaged during the job, you could be left seriously out of pocket. Fortunately, checking a roofer's public liability insurance in New Zealand is straightforward once you know what to ask for.

What Is Public Liability Insurance?

Public liability insurance protects you (the homeowner) and third parties if the tradesperson causes accidental property damage or personal injury while working on your property. For example, if a roofer drops a tool through a skylight or a ladder falls and damages your neighbour's fence, public liability cover means the roofer's insurer — not you — picks up the bill.

This is separate from:

• ACC levies, which cover workplace injuries to the roofer themselves
• Homeowner's insurance, which covers your own property (though your insurer may still want to know a contractor was properly insured)
• Workmanship or defects cover, which some roofers carry separately

How Much Cover Should a Roofer Have?

There is no single legally mandated minimum for public liability insurance in NZ for roofing work, but industry practice generally considers $1 million to $2 million per event as a reasonable baseline for residential roofing. Larger or more complex jobs may warrant higher limits. Always ask the roofer what their policy limit is and whether it's adequate for the scope of your project.

Step-by-Step: How to Verify a Roofer's Insurance

1. Ask for a Certificate of Currency

The most reliable way to confirm cover is to request a Certificate of Currency (sometimes called a Certificate of Insurance). This is a one-page document issued by the insurer that shows:

• The policyholder's name (should match the business you're hiring)
• The type of cover (public liability)
• The policy limit
• The policy expiry date

A reputable roofer will have no hesitation providing this. If they can't or won't, treat that as a red flag.

2. Check the Expiry Date

Policies renew annually. Make sure the certificate is current — not expired — and that it will remain valid for the duration of your roofing project.

3. Confirm the Business Name Matches

The name on the certificate should match the business name on their quote, invoice, and any contract. If they're trading under a different name, ask for an explanation.

4. Contact the Insurer Directly if in Doubt

If you want extra peace of mind, you can contact the insurer listed on the certificate to confirm the policy is active. The roofer's consent may be required for the insurer to discuss details, but a simple confirmation of currency is usually straightforward.

5. Check for Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) Status

While not the same as insurance, checking that your roofer holds a current Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) licence is another layer of protection. Certain roofing work is restricted building work under the NZ Building Code, meaning it must be carried out or supervised by an LBP. You can verify LBP status on the Licensed Building Practitioners register. Reputable roofers who carry LBP licences are also more likely to maintain proper insurance.

6. Ask About Subcontractors

If the roofer uses subcontractors, ask whether those workers are covered under the main contractor's policy or carry their own. Gaps in subcontractor cover can leave you exposed.

What to Include in Your Contract

Before work starts, get everything in writing. A good roofing contract should reference:

• Proof of public liability insurance (attach the certificate)
• The scope of work and materials
• Payment terms and schedule
• How variations and disputes are handled

Consumer NZ has useful guidance on contractor agreements and your rights as a homeowner.

Does Roofing Work Need a Building Consent?

Some roofing work — such as full re-roofs or structural changes — may require a building consent from your local council. Other work may qualify as exempt under Schedule 1 of the Building Act. Always check with your council before work begins, as this can affect your insurance position too. The MBIE Building Performance website is a good starting point for understanding consent requirements.

For technical standards, roofing in NZ is guided by NZS 3604 (for timber-framed buildings) and the Building Code clauses E2 (External Moisture) and E3 (Internal Moisture), among others. BRANZ publishes research and guidance on roofing best practice that both homeowners and tradespeople can reference.

When to Call a Professional

Roofing is inherently high-risk work. WorkSafe NZ identifies falls from height as one of the leading causes of serious injury in the construction industry. Even minor roof inspections carry real risk for untrained homeowners. Always hire a qualified, insured roofer rather than attempting significant roof work yourself.

If you're unsure where to start, you can find vetted local roofing professionals on tradedirectory.co.nz — and use the checklist above to confirm their insurance before signing anything.

Sources & Further Reading

• Licensed Building Practitioners – LBP Register
• MBIE Building Performance – Building Consents
• BRANZ – Roofing Guidance
• WorkSafe NZ – Working at Height
• Consumer NZ – Hiring a Tradesperson