If you were a roofer in California 20 years ago, State Fund was the only option for roofing contractors insurance if you had fewer than 10 employees. That’s no longer the case. In the last few years, a variety of programs built specifically for roofers have emerged, sparking a mass migration of California roofers away from State Fund.
With the thriving construction industry in Orange County, this shift has highlighted the importance of workers’ comp. Roofing is dangerous, as individuals can fall, sustain injuries from equipment, and even suffer heat illnesses. As a result, workers’ comp insurance is essential for roofing businesses.
The Role of Roofing Contractors Insurance
In California’s no-fault system, all businesses must maintain workers’ compensation insurance — including roofing contractors.
This insurance provides benefits to both companies and their employees. Businesses pay for the coverage, which pays for the following after workplace-related injury or illness:
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medications
- Surgeries
- Doctor’s appointments
- Hospital visits
Policies also offer disability and death benefits.
To be eligible, an employee must have sustained the injury while on the job. Without insurance, these injuries would make the employer vulnerable to civil action from the harmed employee. However, workers’ comp precludes this type of legal action, saving the employer from an expensive defense.
The Unique Challenges of Roofing in Orange County
Roofing contractors insurance is a relatively new requirement in California, as the law came into effect in 2023. However, the industry’s many dangers made the change necessary:
- Extreme heat from summer weather and heat-generating power tools
- Steep inclines and falling hazards
- Electrocution from power tools, solar panels, and old wiring
- Back injuries from lifting heavy materials
- Foot injuries from dropping heavy materials
The Cost of Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries can be devastating for employees. Broken bones and conditions requiring surgery can put individuals out of commission for months. Not everyone has enough savings to pay bills for that long.
For employers, having an employee out can impact productivity. Hiring a temporary worker to fill the gap is yet another expense, but allowing other employees to take on the responsibilities can breed resentment. Without roofing contractors insurance, you’ll also have to pay attorney fees and the settlement if the employee decides to sue.
Safety Measures for Roofing Companies
Safety is crucial to reducing employee injuries, complying with regulations, and maintaining a positive business reputation. You can take several measures to minimize harm:
- Create safety protocols and implement regular training.
- Inspect equipment and keep to a maintenance schedule.
- Encourage employees to voice safety concerns.
How Roofing Contractors Insurance Mitigates Risks
When insurance covers medical bills, employees can focus on recovery and returning to work. That means fewer resources expended advertising for an open position, vetting applicants, and training new hires. The result is greater financial stability for roofing companies, even when the unforeseen occurs.
Workers’ compensation benefits can also contribute to a positive work environment, as employees may feel that the higher-ups care about them. When you care about your workers, they invest in the business’s success and feel a strong loyalty to the company.
Today, businesses have many more options for roofing contractors insurance. Western Republic can help companies in Orange County find tailored coverage at affordable prices. To get a workers’ comp roofing quote, contact us today.
About Western Republic
Locally owned and operated since 2009, Gabe Stubin of Western Republic Insurance Services has delivered quality insurance solutions to individuals in Huntington Beach, California, for over 17 years. Specializing in Commercial Business insurance coverage, our team of knowledgeable insurance professionals is committed to helping you find a policy that fits your needs. We focus on providing individualized attention and quality customer service to create an experience that’s difficult to find in today’s market. At Western Republic Insurance Services, we’ll work with you to ensure that you and those you care about most are protected