When planning any roofing work in Sydney, one of the first questions homeowners ask is do roofers have to be licensed? The short answer is yes. In New South Wales (NSW), all roofers who perform residential building work valued at more than $5,000 (including materials and labour) must hold a valid contractor licence issued by NSW Fair Trading. This licence ensures that the roofer has the proper qualifications, experience, and insurance to complete the job safely and in compliance with Australian Standards.
Many people are surprised to learn how strictly regulated roofing is in Sydney. Whether it’s a minor roof repair, a full roof replacement, or a new build installation, the law requires that the contractor be licensed for the specific type of roofing work being done. That includes roof tiling, metal roofing, and waterproofing.
Why Licensing Matters in Sydney Roofing
Hiring a licensed roofer is not just a matter of legal compliance; it’s also about quality, safety, and protection. Licensed roofers are trained to follow NSW Building Codes and Standards, ensuring that every installation is structurally sound and weather-resistant.
A licensed roofer must also hold current public liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage, protecting homeowners from potential liability in case of on-site accidents or property damage. Without a licence, a roofer may not carry the required insurance, leaving you at financial risk.
Moreover, licensed roofers are accountable to NSW Fair Trading, which means there’s a formal complaints process if something goes wrong. This level of accountability simply doesn’t exist when dealing with unlicensed operators.
What Happens if You Hire an Unlicensed Roofer?
Choosing an unlicensed roofer might seem cheaper at first, but it can quickly become a costly mistake. Under NSW law, unlicensed roofing work over $5,000 is illegal, and homeowners may have no recourse if the job is poorly done.
If defects appear later or the work doesn’t comply with building codes, you may be unable to claim compensation or insurance coverage. In some cases, councils can even require that non-compliant roofs be replaced entirely at your expense.
Beyond the financial risks, there are also serious safety concerns. Roofs built or repaired by unqualified workers may not withstand Australia’s harsh weather conditions, leading to leaks, structural failure, or even collapse.
How to Check if a Roofer Is Licensed
Before signing any roofing contract, it’s vital to verify the roofer’s licence. You can easily do this online via the NSW Fair Trading Licence Check tool. Simply enter the business name or licence number to confirm:
✔ The licence is valid and current
✔ The roofer is authorised for the specific work (e.g. roof tiling, metal roofing)
✔ There are no disciplinary actions recorded against the roofer
A reputable company like Tomkat Roofing will always be transparent about its licensing and insurance status. We encourage clients to verify our credentials before commencing any project, as trust is built on transparency.
Types of Roofing Licences in NSW
In Sydney, roofing professionals can hold different categories of licences depending on the scope of work they perform:
✔ Roof Tiling Licence: For installing or repairing tiled roofs.
✔ Metal Roofing Licence: For work involving metal sheets or Colorbond roofs.
✔ Roof Plumbing Licence: For managing rainwater systems, flashings, and guttering.
✔ Waterproofing Licence: For sealing and preventing water ingress on roofs or balconies.
Many established companies, including Tomkat Roofing, hold multiple licences so they can deliver complete roofing solutions from structure to finish without needing third-party contractors.
The Benefits of Hiring Licensed Roofers
Working with licensed professionals brings peace of mind and tangible benefits:
✔ Compliance with Australian Standards: Licensed roofers must follow the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and other safety standards.
✔ Workmanship Guarantee: Most licensed roofers offer a warranty on their work, giving you long-term protection.
✔ Insurance Protection: You’re covered if damage or injury occurs during the project.
✔ Quality Materials and Techniques: Licensed contractors often have access to premium products and use industry-approved methods.
✔ Accountability and Ethics: Licensed roofers adhere to professional and ethical guidelines, reducing the risk of disputes.
Why Choose Tomkat Roofing
At Tomkat Roofing, we believe that every homeowner deserves a safe, reliable, and legally compliant roof. Our team of licensed Sydney roofers brings years of expertise across all major roofing types, including metal, tile, and flat roofing systems.
We handle everything from inspections and repairs to complete roof replacements, ensuring every project meets NSW Fair Trading and Australian Standards requirements.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Hiring Roofers
To protect your investment, follow these essential steps when choosing a roofing contractor in Sydney:
✔ Always request a written quote with licence details included.
✔ Confirm insurance certificates before work begins.
✔ Ask for recent project photos or references.
✔ Avoid cash-only deals or quotes that seem unusually low.
Unlicensed operators often undercut legitimate businesses but deliver substandard results that end up costing far more in repairs or replacements.
For trustworthy advice and quality workmanship, speak with the licensed professionals at Tomkat Roofing, your local roofing specialists in Sydney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do roofers have to be licensed in Sydney?
Yes. NSW law requires roofers to hold a valid licence for any residential building work valued over $5,000.
What if my roofing job is under $5,000?
Even for smaller jobs, hiring a licensed roofer ensures proper workmanship and insurance coverage. It’s always safer to work with licensed professionals.
How can I check if a roofer’s licence is genuine?
Visit the NSW Fair Trading Licence Check website and search for the roofer’s business name or licence number.
What kind of licence should my roofer have?
It depends on the type of roofing work: metal roofing, roof tiling, roof plumbing, or waterproofing. Always verify that your roofer holds the correct licence category.
Can I be fined for hiring an unlicensed roofer?
While homeowners are not typically fined, they bear financial risks if the work is defective or non-compliant. It’s safer to choose a fully licensed contractor.
Final Thoughts
In Sydney, the question “Do roofers have to be licensed?” has a clear and simple answer: yes, absolutely. Licensing is not just a legal formality but a safeguard for your home, your safety, and your wallet. By choosing a licensed roofing company like Tomkat Roofing, you’re investing in qualified expertise, proper insurance, and lasting quality. Don’t take chances with your roof; it protects everything beneath it.
Ready to work with a fully licensed and insured roofing team? Contact Tomkat Roofing today for expert advice, transparent quotes, and quality roofing solutions Sydney homeowners trust.
