Roofer – Occupation Information

Introduction

A Roofer is a skilled tradesperson who installs, repairs, and maintains roofing systems for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

They work with materials such as tiles, metal sheets, shingles, and waterproof membranes to ensure roofs are durable, weather-resistant, and properly sealed.

Roofers are responsible for constructing new roofs, replacing damaged sections, and maintaining existing roofing systems, helping protect buildings from environmental conditions.

This role requires physical capability, attention to detail, and strict adherence to safety practices.

Types of Roofing Work

Roofers may specialise depending on materials and project requirements.

Common types include:

Residential Roofing
Commercial Roofing
Roof Repairs and Maintenance
Metal and Specialist Roofing

1. Residential Roofing

This involves roofing work on houses and small buildings.

Work Scope

Work Type	Description
Roof Installation	Installing new roofing systems
Tile and Shingle Work	Laying roofing materials
Roof Replacement	Removing and replacing old roofs
Waterproofing	Preventing leaks and moisture damage

2. Commercial Roofing

This focuses on large-scale buildings and structures.

Work Scope

Work Type	Description
Flat Roofing Systems	Installing low-slope roofing systems
Membrane Installation	Applying waterproof layers
Large Projects	Warehouses and commercial sites
Safety Systems	Ensuring compliance with safety standards

3. Roof Repairs and Maintenance

This includes repairing and maintaining roofing systems.

Work Scope

Work Type	Description
Leak Repairs	Identifying and fixing leaks
Material Replacement	Replacing damaged sections
Routine Maintenance	Inspecting and servicing roofs
Storm Damage Repairs	Restoring damaged roofs

4. Metal and Specialist Roofing

This involves specialised roofing systems and materials.

Work Scope

Work Type	Description
Metal Roof Installation	Installing metal roofing systems
Flashing Work	Sealing joints and edges
Gutter Installation	Installing drainage components
Custom Roofing	Complex or unique roof designs

State and Territory Licensing Authorities

Roofing work is part of the construction industry and may require licensing depending on the scope of work.

State / Territory	Licensing Authority	Requirement	Website
New South Wales	Fair Trading NSW	Licence required for roofing work	https://www.nsw.gov.au
Victoria	Victorian Building Authority	Registration/licence required	https://www.vba.vic.gov.au
Queensland	QBCC	Licence required	https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au
South Australia	Consumer and Business Services	Contractor licence required	https://www.cbs.sa.gov.au
Western Australia	Building and Energy	Registration/licence may apply	https://www.wa.gov.au
Tasmania	CBOS	Licensing may apply	https://www.cbos.tas.gov.au
Australian Capital Territory	Access Canberra	Licence required for building work	https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au
Northern Territory	NT Government	Licensing may apply	https://nt.gov.au

Training and Qualification Requirements

Roofers typically gain skills through trade training and practical experience.

Primary Qualification

Qualification	Description
Certificate III in Roof Plumbing or Roofing	Core trade qualification
Apprenticeship (3–4 years)	On-the-job training pathway
White Card	Required for construction work
Specialised Training	For metal or waterproofing systems

Key Training Areas

Roofing installation techniques
Working at heights safely
Waterproofing and sealing methods
Use of tools and equipment
Reading plans and measurements
Material handling and installation

Industry Experience

Hands-on experience is essential in roofing.

Typical experience includes:

Installing roofing systems
Repairing and maintaining roofs
Working with various roofing materials
Using specialised tools and safety equipment
Completing residential and commercial projects

Experience ensures quality workmanship, durability, and safety compliance.

Compliance and Industry Regulations

Roofers must follow construction and safety requirements.

Key responsibilities include:

Installing roofing systems according to building requirements
Ensuring proper waterproofing and drainage
Following safety procedures when working at heights
Using appropriate materials and installation methods
Meeting project specifications

Compliance and Penalties

Failure to comply may result in:

Roof leaks and structural issues
Safety hazards
Legal penalties and fines
Increased repair and maintenance costs
Non-compliance with building standards

Where to Verify a Licence or Registration

State / Territory	Authority	Verification Link
New South Wales	Licence Check NSW	https://verify.licence.nsw.gov.au
Victoria	VBA Practitioner Search	https://www.vba.vic.gov.au
Queensland	QBCC Licence Search	https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au
Western Australia	WA Government	https://www.wa.gov.au
South Australia	CBS Licence Register	https://www.cbs.sa.gov.au
Tasmania	CBOS Licence Search	https://www.cbos.tas.gov.au
Australian Capital Territory	Access Canberra	https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au
Northern Territory	NT Government	https://nt.gov.au

Career Roles in Roofing

Roofer
Roof Plumber
Metal Roofer
Roofing Contractor
Maintenance Roofer

Job Outlook and Salary

Experience Level	Average Salary
Entry-Level	$55,000 – $70,000
Experienced	$70,000 – $95,000
Senior / Contractor	$95,000 – $130,000+

Demand is driven by construction projects, property maintenance, and roofing replacements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a roofer do?
A roofer installs, repairs, and maintains roofing systems.

Do roofers need a licence?
Licensing may be required depending on the type and scale of work.

Is roofing physically demanding?
Yes, it involves working at heights and handling heavy materials.

What materials do roofers work with?
They work with tiles, metal sheets, shingles, and waterproof membranes.