When hiring a roofing contractor, it’s essential to verify that they have the right insurance coverage to protect you, your property, and the workers involved. This is especially important when working with a local contractor like Tigard Roofing, which serves the Tigard area. Whether you’re planning a roof replacement or repair work, the risks involved in roofing projects make it crucial to ensure the contractor is properly insured. Before signing any agreements, request documentation for the following four key types of insurance:

1. **General Liability Insurance**
General liability insurance is a must-have for any roofing contractor, as it protects homeowners from being financially responsible for any property damage that might occur during the roofing project. This could involve anything from broken windows and damaged siding to more serious structural issues caused by faulty installation.

In Tigard, homes often feature landscaping, patios, or outdoor furniture that could easily be damaged during a roofing job. For instance, a roofer might accidentally drop a tool that cracks your driveway or breaks a planter. General liability insurance will cover the cost of repairing any damage to your property, so you don’t have to bear that burden.

This insurance also covers any injuries to third parties, such as neighbors or visitors, if they are hurt as a result of the contractor’s work. For example, debris could fall and injure a passerby. Without general liability coverage, you could end up facing costly medical bills or even legal fees. Asking Tigard Roofing for proof of liability insurance will ensure you’re protected from these potential liabilities.

2. **Auto Insurance**
Roofing companies often rely on trucks or vans to transport materials, tools, and workers to and from the job site. This means the contractor’s vehicles will likely be on or near your property during the project. Auto insurance is essential in case one of their vehicles causes an accident or property damage.

Imagine a scenario where Tigard Roofing’s truck accidentally backs into your fence or damages your driveway while parked. Without proper auto insurance, you might end up having to pay for those repairs out of your own pocket. Make sure to ask for proof of the contractor’s auto insurance policy to ensure you won’t be held responsible for vehicle-related accidents during the project.

Given that residential properties in Tigard often have close-set driveways or street parking, ensuring that the contractor’s vehicle insurance is up to date is especially important to avoid any potential damage or incidents.

#3. **Workers’ Compensation Insurance**
Roofing is a physically demanding and hazardous job, involving work at heights and the use of heavy materials and equipment. Because of these risks, it’s vital that any roofing contractor has workers’ compensation insurance, which covers medical expenses and lost wages for workers who are injured on the job.

For instance, if a roofer were to suffer a fall or injury while working on your roof, workers’ compensation would cover their medical care and wage replacement during recovery. This type of insurance also protects you as the homeowner from potential lawsuits. Without it, you could be held liable for medical bills or lost wages if an injury occurs on your property.

In Oregon, roofing contractors are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance, but not every contractor complies. Some may try to cut costs by neglecting this coverage, leaving homeowners vulnerable. Tigard Roofing will always provide proof that they are current on their workers’ compensation insurance before allowing work to start on your home.

4. **Performance Bond Insurance**
Performance bonds offer another layer of protection by ensuring that the roofing contractor will complete the job as agreed upon in the contract. If the contractor fails to meet the terms—whether due to financial issues, poor workmanship, or abandoning the project—the bond will cover the costs of getting the job done by another contractor or providing compensation.

For more substantial or complex roofing projects in Tigard, a performance bond can be a crucial safeguard. If bad weather or other delays occur, or if the contractor is unable to finish the job, this bond ensures that you won’t be left with an incomplete or poorly executed project.

When hiring Tigard Roofing, it’s wise to ask for proof of performance bond insurance, particularly for larger projects. It provides peace of mind that your roofing work will be completed to your satisfaction, even if unforeseen issues arise.

Why Some Contractors May Not Carry Adequate Insurance

While Tigard Roofing is a well-established, reputable company with full insurance coverage, not all contractors in the industry operate with the same level of professionalism. There are several reasons why some contractors may not have the proper insurance coverage:

1. **High Costs of Insurance**: Roofing is considered a high-risk profession, and as a result, insurance premiums—especially for general liability and workers’ compensation—can be very expensive. This is a common reason why smaller or less established contractors might skip out on full coverage. However, working with an uninsured contractor exposes you to significant financial risks.

2. **Lack of Eligibility for Insurance**: Some contractors may have a poor safety record or a history of legal disputes, making it difficult or impossible for them to obtain insurance. Insurance companies may see these contractors as high risk and deny them coverage or offer prohibitively expensive premiums. Contractors who can’t qualify for insurance may take jobs without proper protection, putting homeowners at risk.

3. **Dishonest Practices**: Unfortunately, some contractors may try to deceive homeowners by presenting expired or fake insurance certificates. This is why it’s crucial to verify that the insurance policies are valid and current before any work begins.

If you’re hiring Tigard Roofing, you will receive a copy of their insurance coverage before the project begins. When reviewing their certificates, be sure to:

– Check the Dates: Make sure that the insurance policies are current and will remain active throughout the project’s duration.
– Examine Coverage Limits: Ensure the coverage amounts are sufficient for the scope of your roofing project. This is particularly important for large-scale jobs.
– Confirm with the Insurer: For added peace of mind, contact the insurance company directly to verify the details and ensure the coverage is valid.

By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself from the legal and financial risks associated with roofing projects in Tigard. Whether it’s property damage, worker injuries, or incomplete work, Tigard Roofing has insurance coverage that allows you to proceed with confidence. Their diligence ensures that your roofing project will be completed safely, professionally, and without unforeseen complications.