Different roofing projects require different trade licences and qualifications. This guide explains the main roofing trades in NSW and helps you understand who is qualified for each type of work.
Roofing projects aren't all the same. Replacing a Colorbond roof, repairing a tiled roof, removing asbestos or rebuilding timber fascia can all involve different trade licences and qualifications.
Understanding these differences helps you ask the right questions, choose the appropriate contractor and better understand the work being carried out on your home.
It's also important to know that many roofing projects involve more than one qualified trade. That's completely normal and often necessary to ensure each part of the job is completed by the appropriate professional.
This guide provides general information for homeowners. Licensing requirements can vary depending on the type, scope and value of the work. Always refer to the official NSW Government resources for the latest licensing requirements.
Metal roof plumbers specialise in installing and repairing metal roofing systems and rainwater goods. They play an important role in protecting homes from the weather by ensuring rainwater is collected and directed away correctly.
Whether you're replacing a Colorbond® roof, installing new gutters or repairing flashings, a metal roof plumber is generally the trade responsible for carrying out this type of work.
Some roofing projects may also involve additional qualified trades, such as carpenters for structural timber work or licensed asbestos removalists where asbestos materials are present.
Projects involving metal roofing, structural timber work or asbestos materials may also require additional qualified trades depending on the scope of the work.
Roof tilers specialise in installing, repairing and maintaining tiled roofing systems. They work with both concrete and terracotta roof tiles and are responsible for ensuring tiled roofs remain weatherproof and structurally sound.
From replacing broken tiles to re-bedding and re-pointing ridge capping, roof tilers help extend the life of tiled roofs while maintaining their appearance and performance.
Asbestos was commonly used in Australian homes built before the late 1980s and can still be found in roofing, eaves, wall cladding, fences and many other building materials. When disturbed, asbestos fibres can become airborne and present serious health risks.
Where asbestos is present, removal should only be carried out by appropriately licensed professionals using approved safety procedures. Depending on the type and quantity of asbestos, different licensing requirements may apply.
If asbestos is suspected during a roofing project, work should stop until the material has been properly identified and the appropriate safety procedures have been followed.
Roofing projects involving structural timber repairs may also require a roof plumber or roof tiler to complete the roofing work once the timber repairs have been finished.
Carpenters specialise in timber construction and structural repairs. Within roofing projects, they are commonly involved when timber components need repairing or replacing before new roofing materials can be installed.
It's not uncommon for roofing projects to involve both a carpenter and a roof plumber or roof tiler, particularly where structural timber has deteriorated due to age, water damage or termite activity.
Different roofing trades specialise in different types of work. The comparison below provides a simple overview of which trade is commonly responsible for each task. Remember, some projects may involve more than one qualified trade depending on the scope of the work.
This comparison is intended as a general guide only. Every project is different and some roofing work may require multiple qualified trades. If you're unsure which trade your project requires, we're happy to point you in the right direction.
Don't be afraid to ask a contractor for their licence number before accepting a quote. Reputable contractors are usually happy to provide it.
Before hiring a roofing contractor, it's always a good idea to verify their licence. In NSW, you can search the public licence register to confirm a contractor's licence number, licence class and current status.
Taking a few minutes to check a licence can give you confidence that you're dealing with a properly licensed contractor for the type of work you require.
Choosing the right contractor can be confusing. Here are answers to some of the questions homeowners ask us most often.
No. Different roofing work often requires different trade licences. For example, metal roof plumbing, roof tiling, carpentry and licensed asbestos removal are separate trades with different qualifications and areas of expertise.
Yes. Some contractors hold multiple trade licences or work alongside other qualified trades to complete projects involving different types of work.
A single roofing project may include structural timber repairs, asbestos removal and new roofing materials. In these situations, more than one qualified trade may be required to complete the project safely and professionally.
NSW Fair Trading provides a public licence register where homeowners can verify a contractor's licence details before work begins.
If asbestos is suspected, work should stop until the material has been properly identified. Depending on the situation, licensed asbestos removal may be required before roofing work can continue.
That's perfectly normal. Many roofing projects involve more than one trade. We're always happy to explain the process and point you in the right direction, even if you're still exploring your options.
This guide is intended to help homeowners better understand the different trades commonly involved in roofing projects. Licensing requirements, regulations and industry standards may change over time, so we always recommend referring to the official NSW Government resources for the most up-to-date information.
Verify a contractor's licence and learn more about home building licences.
Learn more about asbestos safety, regulations and licensed asbestos removal.
View current legislation relating to building work, licensing and workplace safety.
Find information about Australian Standards relevant to roofing and construction.
That's completely normal. Every roofing project is different, and many involve more than one qualified trade. We're happy to explain the process and point you in the right direction.
