Why do so many online insurers decline roofers in BC?

Roofing combines working at heights, water-damage exposure, and, for torch-on work, fire risk. Many instant-quote platforms exclude it entirely. Brokers with specialty contractor markets can still place it, which is why comparing several brokers matters more for roofers than for most trades.

Do I need torch-on coverage if I only do some flat roofs?

Yes, declare it. Insurers price torch-on work differently and often require a fire watch after torching. If you don't declare it and a fire happens, the claim can be disputed.

What liability limit do BC strata jobs usually need?

Many strata corporations and property managers ask roofers for $5 million in general liability, and some want to be named as additional insureds. Check the contract before you quote the job so your certificate matches.

British Columbia trade insurance

Insurance for Roofing Contractors in British Columbia

Liability, tools, and truck coverage for BC roofers. One application, and licensed BC brokers who write roofing compete for your account.

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Roofing Contractors in British Columbia illustration

Commercial Liability & Risk Guide for Roofing Contractors in British Columbia

Roofing is one of the hardest trades to insure in British Columbia, and many instant online quotes decline it outright. Coastal crews work through a long wet season where an open roof can turn into a water-damage claim overnight. Flat torch-on roofs are common on Lower Mainland condos and commercial buildings, which brings fire risk. Strata corporations and property managers often ask for higher liability limits before you set foot on the building. QuoteMatch sends your application to licensed BC brokers with roofing markets, so you're compared by people who actually write the trade.

Risks specific to British Columbia

Working in British Columbia brings its own climate, market, and regulatory risks:

Water getting in on open roofs during the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island rainy season.
Fire risk from torch-on membrane work on flat condo and commercial roofs.
Strata and property-manager contracts that ask for $5 million in liability.
WorkSafeBC fall-protection enforcement, one of its most active areas in construction.

Rules and requirements to know

Insurers and clients in British Columbia will expect you to meet these:

WorkSafeBC Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, Part 11 (fall protection).
WorkSafeBC registration, plus clearance letters for any subcontractors you hire.
RCABC RoofStar Guarantee requirements on projects that call for them.

Example claim

How a claim could happen

“A Burnaby crew strips a strata roof in October. An atmospheric river arrives a day early and water comes through into four top-floor units before the tarps hold.”

How coverage respondsThe roofer's liability policy handles the drying, drywall, and flooring repairs in the affected units, plus the strata's claim against the roofer.

Official resources

Roofing Contractors in other provinces

Common questions: Roofing Contractors in British Columbia

Why do so many online insurers decline roofers in BC?: Roofing combines working at heights, water-damage exposure, and, for torch-on work, fire risk. Many instant-quote platforms exclude it entirely. Brokers with specialty contractor markets can still place it, which is why comparing several brokers matters more for roofers than for most trades.
Do I need torch-on coverage if I only do some flat roofs?: Yes, declare it. Insurers price torch-on work differently and often require a fire watch after torching. If you don't declare it and a fire happens, the claim can be disputed.
What liability limit do BC strata jobs usually need?: Many strata corporations and property managers ask roofers for $5 million in general liability, and some want to be named as additional insureds. Check the contract before you quote the job so your certificate matches.