A Professional Guide to Starting a New Roofing Company in Australia*

Licensing & Regulations

As a roofing contractor, a new business owner must acquire and hold a valid roofing plumber license to operate legally within this country. The requirements include completing an apprenticeship or traineeship certification, which is 100% necessary to secure a new roofing license.

Generally speaking, the licensing requirements include completing a relevant certification course as well as acquiring adequate insurance coverage. It’s always best to research the specific requirements for your state or territory before opening your new business.

Registering Your New Roofing Company

Australia requires all new roofing companies to register their business with the appropriate authorities. Consider the following legal requirements, necessary licenses and permits, and insurance requirements for proper roofing company registration. They include:

Legal Requirements 

Before new roofers can begin their trade, they should choose the correct structure for their business. Are you operating as a sole trader, partnership, or company? Depending on the structure, each one has different legal, tax, and financial implications. Make this decision first and seek professional advice if you aren’t sure of the best course of action. 

The next step is to register your new business with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Afterward, you will be given an Australian Business Number (ABN). Finally, if your annual turnover is greater than $75,000, business owners must also register for Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Insurance Requirements

Australian roofing companies are required to have specific insurance coverage for roofers and protection in place to protect against liabilities and potential risks. The types of insurance coverage companies might potentially need include:

• Public Liability Insurance – this form of insurance will protect the property of business owners. It covers third party injury and property damage claims.
• Worker’s Compensation Insurance – Worker’s Comp. is a valuable form of insurance that covers employees. It allows employees to continue to receive some form of payment in case of illness or injury.
• Business Insurance Pack including Commercial Property Insurance, Fire and Perils , Theft, Glass, Stock and Contents, Machinery Equipment Breakdown and Business Interruption
• Cyber Liability Insurance may be recommended for manufacturers whose Information Technology depends on networked computers. This cover provides peace of mind if confidential information is compromised due to malicious attacks or network malfunctions.

Obtaining Proper Permits & Licenses

Companies in Australia that plan to operate in the roofing industry may need the proper permits and licensing in order to remain legal and in good standing. The necessary licenses and permits may include the following:

1. Builders License or Registration – this type of license or registration is potentially necessary depending on where you operate your business from. Check with your state or territory to find out if a business license or registration is needed.
2. Construction Induction Card – this card is commonly referred to as a white card. It acts as an important type of identification and certification within the construction industry. Having this card proves that the cardholder has completed the necessary training and possesses a basic understanding of the safety and health regulations within the construction industry.
3. Roofing Permit – a building permit is usually required whenever you plan to work on a roof in Australia. To acquire this permit, you must request it from your local council.

If business owners have any questions or concerns about the legal requirements of their state or territory, they should seek professional advice. This is especially true when it comes to having proper insurance coverage.

Summary

It can be challenging and also quite rewarding to start a new roofing company in Australia. New business orders must have all their ducks in a row before they begin. They should create a business plan, obtain proper licenses and insurance, and meet all of the necessary legal requirements to successfully run their business.

After new business owners establish their companies, they can begin working diligently to provide top-notch services for their customers. This will allow them to lead a successful and profitable business within the roofing industry.