How to Vet a Roofing Contractor's Insurance in Kentucky

Why You Must Verify Roofing Insurance Yourself

Every roofing contractor will tell you they're insured. But expired policies, canceled coverage, and outright lies about insurance are more common than you'd think. If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you could face a lawsuit — and your homeowner's insurance may not cover it.

Here's how to verify a contractor's insurance before they set foot on your roof.

The Two Types of Insurance You Must Verify

General Liability Insurance

This covers damage to your property caused by the contractor. If a crew member puts a ladder through your window, drops materials on your car, or damages your landscaping, general liability pays for repairs.

Minimum you should accept: $1 million per occurrence.

Workers' Compensation Insurance

This covers medical bills and lost wages if a worker is injured on your property. Roofing is one of the most dangerous trades in America — falls, burns, and heat-related injuries are common.

Kentucky law requires workers' comp for any employer with one or more employees. If a roofer claims they don't need it because "everyone is independent," that's a red flag.

How to Verify — Step by Step

Step 1: Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI)

Ask the contractor for a current Certificate of Insurance. This is a one-page document issued by their insurance company that lists:

• The insurance company name and policy numbers
• Coverage types and limits
• Policy effective and expiration dates
• The named insured (the contractor)

Any legitimate contractor can produce this within hours. If they stall or make excuses, move on.

Step 2: Call the Insurance Company

Don't just look at the certificate — call the insurance company listed on it. Verify:

• The policy is currently active (not expired or canceled)
• The coverage limits match what's on the certificate
• The named insured matches the contractor's legal business name

This call takes five minutes and could save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Step 3: Request to Be Named as "Additional Insured"

For extra protection, ask the contractor to add you as an "additional insured" on their policy for the duration of the project. This means their insurance company will notify you directly if the policy is canceled or lapses during your project.

Step 4: Verify Workers' Comp Through the State

In Kentucky, you can verify workers' comp coverage through the Kentucky Department of Workers' Claims. In Indiana, check the Indiana Workers' Compensation Board.

What Happens If You Skip This Step

• Scenario 1: A worker falls off your roof and breaks his back. The contractor has no workers' comp. The worker sues you as the property owner. Your homeowner's insurance may deny the claim because you hired an uninsured contractor.

• Scenario 2: The roofing crew damages your neighbor's fence. The contractor has no liability insurance. You're responsible for the repair.

• Scenario 3: The contractor disappears mid-project. With no insurance documentation, you have no recourse and no way to file a claim.

Homestretch's Insurance

We carry $2 million in general liability and full workers' compensation coverage through nationally rated carriers. We provide certificates same-day upon request and welcome verification calls.

Call (502) 208-5432 or book a free estimate.

Related Reading

• Red Flags When Hiring a Roofing Contractor →
• Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer →

See all Louisville service areas →