A roofing company usually specializes in roof repair and installation. Some roofing companies also offer other exterior services such as windows, gutters and siding. They typically earn standing with manufacturers that enable them to offer substantial warranties on their workmanship.
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Insurance
Roofing is a hazardous business, and it’s important for roofing companies to have the right insurance coverage. Some of the most critical policies include general liability, workers’ compensation and commercial auto insurance. Having the right roofing contractor insurance can protect the company from financial loss, lawsuits and property damage.
Most homeowners don’t want to engage a roofer who doesn’t carry general liability insurance. In the event that an employee falls off a ladder or another mishap occurs, this type of policy covers medical expenses and property damages. It can also pay for legal defense costs, settlements and court judgments.
Nearly every state requires roofing contractors to have workers’ compensation insurance for employees. This covers job-related injuries, such as lacerations and broken bones. It can also help pay for lost wages and disability benefits. Some insurers offer discounts for implementing safety programs or joining trade associations.
In the event that a client sues the roofing company over shoddy work, errors and omissions insurance can pay for legal fees, settlements and judgments. This is sometimes referred to as professional liability insurance and is an essential addition to any roofing company’s insurance package.
Lastly, a roofing company should have commercial auto insurance for all vehicles used in the business, including cars, trucks and vans. This type of policy is necessary because personal auto insurance won’t provide coverage for work-related accidents and damages.
Many roofing businesses require a variety of tools and equipment to complete their projects. Commercial property insurance can help protect the company’s equipment from theft, damage and other perils. This type of coverage is often a part of a business owners policy (BOP). Some insurers will even offer a tools and equipment floater, which provides additional protection for the company’s high-value machinery and tools. Inland marine insurance may also be a consideration for roofing companies that need to ship equipment on a regular basis. This type of coverage typically helps cover the cost to repair or replace specialized tools and equipment that aren’t covered by other insurance types.
Licenses
Whether you are a new roofer or have been in the business for years, it’s essential to keep your licenses current. These important documents allow you to perform your work safely and legally. They may also provide protection from lawsuits and make you more trustworthy to clients. To obtain a roofing license, you’ll need to meet state requirements, such as passing an exam and getting insurance coverage. Often, you’ll need to renew your license on a regular basis.
Depending on the state where you work, there are different licensing requirements for roofing contractors. In Connecticut, for example, you’ll need a home improvement contractor license, and you must be registered with the Department of Consumer Protection to perform roofing. You can obtain a limited license that only allows you to work on residential homes or an unlimited license that covers both commercial and industrial buildings. You’ll also need to provide proof of insurance, including a minimum of $250,000 per occurrence for property damage and workers’ compensation coverage if you have employees.
In Nevada, roofing professionals are licensed as Class C specialty contractors and must pass both a trade examination and a law and business exam. In addition, they must submit proof of workers’ compensation and a bond.
Some states don’t require a license for roofing contractors, but it’s always a good idea to check with the local government to find out what your specific requirements are. You might need a permit from the town in which you’re working. Have no roofing-specific license requirement, but you’ll need to prove that you can do the job safely and comply with local building codes.
A roofing company’s best option for business purposes is to incorporate as a professional limited liability corporation (PLLC). This entity provides huge advantages, from allowing you to separate your personal assets from those of the company and granting management flexibility to simplifying taxation and ensuring continuity. In addition, you’ll be able to attract investors with a reputable business structure.
Equipment
A roofing company has a variety of equipment to help with various jobs. They also offer a number of services, including insurance claims, roof repairs and inspections for real estate companies. In addition to these services, a roofing company can provide materials, including shingles and other roofing products. They can also provide other construction-related supplies, such as air conditioning units and electrical wiring.
To be successful, a roofing business needs to have reliable equipment and materials. A general tool kit should include hammers, mallets, hacksaws, screwdrivers, chisels and punches. A coring tool to take samples and a box of baggies are also necessary. In addition, a good pair of ladders is essential to gaining access to roofs. A spud bar is also useful for removing embedded gravel from a roof surface.
Other important equipment includes a Delmhorst meter for measuring the moisture content of roofing materials, an optical comparator and reticle to measure coating thickness, a shingle cutter and a shingle scale. A spud bar is a long-handled tool that has flat blades to remove embedded debris from a roof. A spud bar can be used with a broom or a power spudder, which is a motorized device that looks like a rotary lawn mower with steel blades.
Another essential piece of equipment for a roofing company is a generator, which can be very useful if there is no electricity at the job site. This tool can also be useful for powering multiple compressors for nail guns while work is underway. A generator is also helpful for ensuring that the job gets done in a timely manner, especially if there are weather delays or unforeseen circumstances.
Besides the equipment, roofing businesses also need to register with the local authorities to get a contractor’s license. Depending on the jurisdiction, the type of business structure chosen can affect how much tax is paid. For instance, a sole proprietorship is often chosen by small entrepreneurs who work alone and may offer more tax deductions than other business structures.
If you decide to use a different business structure, you should discuss this with an accountant or a lawyer. This will help you determine which structure is best for your roofing company. You should also consider setting up a bank account for your business and using an online job tracking software, such as Jobber. This will help you track key details of each job so you can complete jobs efficiently and accurately.
Employees
The employees of a roofing company are often the face of the business and are the direct liaison between the owner and the client. As such, they must have a strong sense of ethics and be willing to make the customer happy. They should also be committed to completing the job on time and within budget, and to upholding the company’s standards for quality and safety. Those who do not meet these requirements should be let go.
The best employees will have a strong work ethic and are willing to learn on the job. Ideally, they will have some construction experience but are willing to learn from their peers and take on new challenges. They must also be willing to follow all OSHA regulations and provide a safe working environment. It is important to hire only people who are reliable and will not give you problems.
It is also important to create a friendly and positive workplace. Employees should be encouraged to discuss their concerns and ideas with the owners. They should feel trusted and listened to, which will promote loyalty. Annual reviews are a good opportunity to praise and constructively criticize employees. This will help the workers grow professionally and improve the company’s profitability.
A roofing company should offer a competitive benefits package, including insurance and paid leave. It should also consider offering a profit-sharing plan. This is a great way to attract and retain skilled workers.
To attract and retain customers, a roofing company should use multiple marketing strategies. It should have a website and social media accounts, as well as a mobile phone number. It should accept credit cards and be listed in online directories. Additionally, a well-signed vehicle is a great way to advertise the company.
It is also important to make sure the roofing company has a solid legal and bookkeeping process. Many small businesses avoid these tasks, but they are easier and less expensive than they may seem. Luckily, there are plenty of freelancing accountants available on Upwork and other similar websites. These professionals can help the roofing company save money while still providing a high level of service to the customers.