How long should a roof last in NZ?

Long-run steel roofing typically lasts 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance. Concrete tiles last 40 to 60 years. Clay tiles can last 80+ years. Membrane roofing lasts 15 to 25 years. Coastal environments, high UV, and poor installation can shorten the lifespan significantly.

Is re-roofing restricted building work?

Yes. Re-roofing is classified as restricted building work because it affects the weathertightness of the building envelope. It must be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) under the Building Act 2004.

Hiring a Roofer Checklist — What to Check Before You Hire | Call A Tradie NZ

Your roof is your home's first line of defence against New Zealand's harsh UV, heavy rain, and coastal winds. A poorly installed or repaired roof can lead to leaks, structural damage, and major insurance headaches. Use this checklist to hire a qualified roofer who will protect your biggest investment.

Licensing & Qualifications

4 items

Verify LBP registration for re-roofing work

Re-roofing is classified as restricted building work under the Building Act 2004 because it affects weathertightness. The roofer must be an LBP or supervised by one. Verify on building.govt.nz.

Check their experience with your roofing material

Long-run steel, concrete tile, clay tile, and membrane roofing all require different skills. Ask specifically about their experience with your roof type.

Ask about manufacturer certifications

Many roofing manufacturers (e.g., Metalcraft, Dimond, Gerard) offer installer certification programs. A certified installer ensures warranty coverage on the materials.

Confirm Site Safe or height safety certification

Roofing is high-risk work. Roofers should hold current height safety training and use proper fall protection equipment. Ask about their safety record.

Scope & Materials

5 items

Get a thorough roof inspection before quoting

A proper inspection identifies underlying issues — rotten timber, insufficient ventilation, damaged underlay. Be cautious of roofers who quote without inspecting first.

Ask what roofing materials and profile they recommend

Different profiles (corrugate, tray, standing seam) suit different roof pitches and aesthetics. Your roofer should explain the pros and cons of each option.

Confirm whether flashings, gutters, and downpipes are included

A complete re-roof should include new flashings around penetrations, valleys, and edges. Clarify whether gutters and downpipes are part of the scope.

Ask about ventilation and underlay

Modern NZ Building Code requires roof underlay and adequate ventilation. Ask what underlay product will be used and whether ventilation meets E2/AS1 requirements.

Check if building consent is required

A like-for-like re-roof (same material) is generally exempt under Schedule 1 of the Building Act, but changing material type or altering the structure usually requires consent. Your roofer should advise on this.

Quotes & Warranties

4 items

Get at least three detailed quotes

Roofing quotes should specify the material, profile, colour, underlay, flashings, and any structural repairs. Compare scope, warranty, and price across all quotes.

Ask about product warranty vs workmanship warranty

Roofing materials often carry manufacturer warranties of 15 to 50 years. The workmanship warranty from the installer is separate — typically 5 to 10 years.

Clarify the payment schedule

Roofing jobs should be paid in stages. A typical schedule is 10% deposit, progress payment when materials arrive, and final payment on completion and sign-off.

Confirm the estimated timeline and weather contingency

Roofing is weather-dependent. Ask for an estimated start and completion date and how weather delays will be managed. Your home should not be left exposed to rain.

Insurance & Safety

4 items

Request proof of public liability insurance

Roofing involves significant risk of damage to your property and neighbouring properties. Confirm at least $2 million in public liability cover.

Ask about their fall protection plan

Working at height is NZ's second largest cause of workplace fatalities. Your roofer must have a height safety plan including edge protection, harnesses, or scaffolding.

Confirm they will manage asbestos safely if present

Many older NZ homes have asbestos cement roofing. Removal requires a licensed asbestos removal contractor. Your roofer should identify this before work begins.

Check they have adequate clean-up procedures

Roofing generates debris — old materials, nails, screws, offcuts. Your roofer should have a plan for containing and removing all waste, including using magnetic sweepers for nails.

Red Flags to Watch For

No LBP licence for re-roofing or restricted building work
Does not inspect the roof before providing a quote
No public liability insurance or height safety equipment
Uses cheap or non-compliant roofing materials
Does not discuss building consent when required
Wants full payment before starting work
No written warranty on workmanship
Cannot provide manufacturer certification for the roofing product
No plan for managing asbestos if present on older homes

Roofers Hiring FAQ

A like-for-like re-roof using the same material type is generally exempt from building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act. However, if you are changing the roofing material (e.g., tiles to long-run steel), adding insulation, or making structural changes, you will likely need consent. Always check with your local council.