Wildfires have transformed from a seasonal concern into a year-round reality for roofing contractors across the United States. A wildfire is an unplanned and uncontrolled fire in an area of combustible vegetation. With fire seasons extending from the traditional five months to seven months or more, and high-risk zones expanding beyond the Western states into the Northeast and Southeast, understanding how wildfire risk affects your roofing business insurance has never been more critical. Wildfires can severely impact people and their settlements, leading to destruction of property and significant economic losses. The destruction of property due to wildfires is one of the most noticeable adverse effects, resulting in substantial economic losses for communities and individuals. In 2024, approximately 89% of U.S. wildfires were human-caused, while the primary natural cause is lightning, specifically “dry lightning.” Natural occurrences that can ignite wildfires include lightning, volcanic eruptions, sparks from rock falls, and spontaneous combustions. Human-caused fires may include arson, accidental ignition, or the uncontrolled use of fire in land-clearing and agriculture. In middle latitudes, the most common human causes of wildfires are equipment generating sparks, overhead power lines, and arson. The societal impact of wildfires on people includes not only property loss but also health effects and disruptions to entire communities.

This guide covers everything roofing contractors need to know about wildfire season, insurance requirements, and how to protect both your business and your clients in fire-prone areas.

Understanding Wildfire Season in 2026

Wildfire season in the United States typically runs from May through November, with peak activity occurring in August when conditions are hottest and driest. However, climate change has dramatically altered these patterns. Since the 1970s, fire season in western states has extended from approximately five months to over seven months, and fires outside traditional seasons are becoming increasingly common.

Regional Fire Season Timelines

Northern California: June/July through late October or November
Southern California: Late spring (May-June) through October, with Santa Ana wind events creating extreme danger
Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon): July through October, with above-normal fire danger predicted through 2026
Southwest (Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico): Year-round risk with peaks during spring and fall dry seasons
Rocky Mountain States (Colorado, Montana): June through September, extending into October during drought years

Key Statistic: In 2025, nearly 45% of the western United States was under severe to exceptional drought conditions, with live fuel moisture levels dropping below 70% in many fire-prone ecosystems.

How Wildfires Impact Roofing Contractor Insurance

The insurance market for roofing contractors has tightened significantly in recent years due to catastrophic wildfire losses. Many standard carriers have reduced their appetite for roofing risks in high-fire-hazard zones, often requiring contractors to access surplus lines carriers who specialize in construction risks.

Premium Increases in Fire-Prone Areas

Roofing contractors operating in wildfire zones can expect to pay significantly more for insurance coverage. In California, general liability insurance averages $434 monthly compared to the $389 national average. Properties in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) have seen premium increases of 12-18% in 2025 alone, with deductibles jumping to $5,000-$10,000 for wildfire-related losses.

Coverage Challenges

Policy Non-Renewals: Major insurers including State Farm, Allstate, and Farmers have pulled back from high-risk areas, making it harder for contractors to find coverage
Surplus Lines Requirements: Many contractors in fire zones must choose between specialized surplus lines carriers and other available options when standard insurers are not available

Stricter Underwriting: Following the January 2025 Southern California wildfires, insurers have implemented stricter underwriting criteria and coverage adjustments

Essential Insurance Coverage for Wildfire Zone Work

Roofing contractors working in fire-prone areas face a variety of risks associated with wildfire exposure and need comprehensive insurance coverage that addresses these unique challenges. The use of specialized insurance products designed for wildfire-prone areas can help protect against losses from fire damage, smoke, and related hazards. These insurance products can be tailored to address the unique challenges of wildfire management for contractors, ensuring coverage for a variety of risks encountered on the job.

Required Coverage Types

General Liability Insurance: Protects against property damage and bodily injury claims. Minimum recommended limits are $1 million per occurrence with a $2 million aggregate. Commercial projects in fire zones may require $2-5 million in coverage.

Workers’ Compensation: Essential for protecting employees working in hazardous conditions. Roofing consistently ranks among the most dangerous construction trades due to fall risks, and workers’ comp rates reflect this reality.

Completed Operations Coverage: Critical for roofing contractors since roof failures often appear months or years after installation. State laws vary on liability periods, ranging from 4-10 years for defects.

Commercial Auto Insurance: Covers vehicles used to transport equipment and materials to job sites in fire-affected areas.

Inland Marine/Tools Coverage: Protects mobile tools and equipment that could be damaged or lost during wildfire evacuations or on job sites in fire zones.

Contractors can manage their insurance policies and conveniently access proof of insurance, such as certificates of insurance, often called COIs, through their online account. This makes it easy to download or share official documents whenever needed.

Commercial Property Insurance for Roofing Contractors

For roofing contractors, commercial property insurance is a vital safeguard that helps protect your business assets from unexpected events, especially in wildfire-prone locations. This type of policy covers your property, including buildings, equipment, tools, and inventory, against damage or loss caused by fire and other covered risks. In areas where wildfire risk is high, having robust commercial property insurance means your business can recover more quickly if disaster strikes, minimizing downtime and financial loss.

When evaluating your commercial property insurance options, consider the total value of your equipment and inventory, as well as the specific risks associated with your business location. Policies can be tailored to cover not just physical damage to your property, but also offer additional options like business interruption insurance. This coverage helps replace lost income if you’re unable to work due to a covered event, ensuring your business stays afloat during the recovery process. By choosing a policy that matches your business needs and risk profile, you can work with confidence, knowing your property and livelihood are protected.

Contractors’ E&O Insurance: Why It Matters in Wildfire Zones

Contractors’ Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance is an essential layer of protection for roofing professionals, particularly in wildfire zones where the stakes are higher. This policy is designed to protect your business from financial losses resulting from mistakes, oversights, or failures to perform professional duties that could lead to property damage or other types of claims. For example, if a contractor’s error in material selection or installation contributes to fire damage, E&O insurance can help cover the resulting costs and legal fees.

In wildfire-prone areas, the risk of being held liable for a mistake is elevated, making E&O coverage a smart investment. When selecting a policy, contractors should look for coverage that protects against allegations of negligence, breach of contract, and other types of professional errors or omissions. The right policy will provide peace of mind and financial protection, tailored to the size and scope of your business and the specific risks you face based on your work and location. By proactively managing these risks, you can protect your business, your clients, and your reputation.

Class A Fire-Rated Roofing: What Contractors Need to Know

Understanding fire ratings is essential for roofing contractors working in wildfire-prone areas. Many jurisdictions now require Class A fire-rated roofing materials, and homeowners with fire-resistant roofs may qualify for significant insurance discounts.

Fire Rating Classifications

Class A (Highest Rating): Effective against severe fire exposure. These materials can withstand direct flame exposure without igniting and provide the best protection against flame penetration and surface flame spread. Class A materials are also highly effective in helping control the spread of fire on roofs.

Class B (Moderate): Provides moderate fire resistance but less protection than Class A materials.

Class C (Basic): Effective only against light fire exposure. Materials can eventually catch fire under sustained exposure.

Unrated: Materials that do not meet minimum testing standards, including untreated wood shakes.

Here is a curated list of recommended Class A fire-rated roofing materials:

Metal roofing (steel, aluminum with proper underlayment)
Concrete and clay tiles
Fiberglass asphalt composition shingles
Slate roofing
Synthetic composite materials designed for fire resistance

Insurance Benefit: Homeowners with Class A fire-rated roofs can see premium reductions of up to 30% in some areas. Metal roofs with impact-resistance certification can reduce premiums by 5-35% depending on location.

State Programs and Insurance Discounts

Several states have implemented programs to help homeowners fortify their properties against wildfires, creating opportunities for roofing contractors while improving community resilience and having a positive impact on both contractors and communities.

California’s Safer from Wildfires Program

California’s Department of Insurance requires insurers to offer discounts for wildfire mitigation actions. Key qualifying improvements include:

Class A fire-rated roofing installation
Ember-resistant vents (1/16 to 1/8 inch noncombustible mesh)
Five-foot ember-resistant zone around structures
Multi-paned window upgrades
Defensible space compliance

Colorado’s New Legislation

Colorado recently passed HB 25-1302, creating a Wildfire Catastrophe Reinsurance Enterprise that funds wind/hail-resistant roofing grants. The state also launched an insurer of last resort in mid-2025 for homeowners unable to find private coverage.

FORTIFIED Home Standards

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) FORTIFIED standard is recognized across multiple states. Homes meeting FORTIFIED requirements have demonstrated significantly better survival rates during wildfires. States offering FORTIFIED-based programs include Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Oklahoma. With the right guidance, the process of meeting FORTIFIED standards can be simple.

Liability Risks for general Contractors in Fire Zones

Working in wildfire-prone areas exposes roofing contractors to unique liability concerns that must be addressed through proper insurance coverage and business practices.

Common Liability Exposures

Workmanship Claims: If a roof fails to perform as expected during a wildfire, contractors may face claims alleging improper installation of fire-resistant materials
Material Selection: Recommending or installing materials that don’t meet local fire codes can result in liability
Documentation Failures: Inadequate documentation or insufficient content in documentation of fire-resistant installations can complicate insurance claims for homeowners
Ember Entry Points: Failure to properly seal roof penetrations, vents, and eaves against ember intrusion

Statute of Limitations by State

Liability periods for roofing defects vary significantly by state. California law holds contractors liable for visible defects up to four years and hidden defects for ten years. Florida has similar timelines, while Michigan allows six years for defective craftsmanship and ten years for gross negligence. Understanding these timelines is essential for maintaining adequate completed operations coverage, and contractors have a standing responsibility to ensure their coverage remains in place throughout the entire liability period.

Best Practices for Roofing Contractors

Documentation Requirements

Thorough documentation protects both contractors and homeowners when wildfire damage occurs or insurance claims are filed:

Photograph all work before, during, and after installation
Maintain detailed records of materials used, including manufacturer specifications and fire ratings
Provide homeowners with documentation of fire-resistant features for insurance purposes
Keep copies of permits and inspection reports
Document compliance with local fire codes and building requirements

Insurance Claims: Navigating the Process After a Wildfire

If your roofing business suffers damage from a wildfire, navigating the insurance claims process efficiently is key to getting back on your feet. Start by reviewing your policy to understand exactly what is covered and any exclusions that may apply. Document all damage thoroughly, take clear photos and videos, keep detailed records of lost or damaged equipment, and save receipts for any expenses related to the loss.

When you’re ready to file a claim, provide your insurance company with as much detail as possible about the damage, the cause, and the steps you’ve taken to mitigate further loss. Be prepared to answer follow-up questions and supply additional documentation as needed. The claims process can take time, but being organized and proactive will help ensure you receive the coverage you need to repair damage and resume work. Staying in close contact with your insurer and responding promptly to requests can also help speed up the process and reduce stress during a challenging time.

Maintenance and Repairs: Protecting Roofs Before and After Wildfire Season

Proactive maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for protecting roofs and buildings from wildfire damage. Before wildfire season begins, roofing contractors should thoroughly inspect roofs for vulnerabilities, look for missing or damaged shingles, cracked tiles, and unsecured flashing or vents. Addressing these issues early helps reduce the risk of fire spreading to the building and ensures the roof is in optimal condition to withstand extreme events.

After a wildfire, it’s equally important to assess roofs for any new damage and make necessary repairs to prevent further deterioration. Consider upgrading to fire-resistant roofing materials and ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris, which can act as fuel for embers. By taking these steps, contractors not only protect the property but also help reduce the overall fire risk for the building. Additionally, providing clients with education and resources on roof maintenance and wildfire preparedness can add value to your services and help communities stay safer year-round.

Working with Insurance Adjusters

When homeowners file wildfire-related claims, contractors often interact with insurance adjusters. Best practices include meeting adjusters on-site to ensure nothing is missed, providing detailed written estimates with itemized materials and labor costs, and understanding that insurers may have specific guidelines for wildfire restoration work.

Reducing Your Insurance Costs

Even in challenging markets, roofing contractors can take steps to manage insurance costs while maintaining adequate coverage:

Bundle Policies: Combining general liability, professional liability, and commercial auto can save 20-28% compared to separate policies
Implement Safety Programs: Comprehensive safety programs and detailed documentation help manage premium costs by demonstrating risk mitigation
Pay Annually: Monthly installment plans add 6-12% in processing fees. Paying upfront earns 5-9% discounts
Work with Specialized Brokers: An experienced broker who understands fire zone construction risks can access markets and rates unavailable through general agents
Maintain Clean Claims History: Prior incidents involving injuries or workmanship issues keep expenses elevated across multiple renewal periods
Leverage a User-Friendly Website: Using a user-friendly website can help contractors quickly find information, compare quotes, and manage their insurance policies more efficiently.

Protect Your Roofing Business Today

As wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense, roofing contractors must adapt their insurance strategies to address evolving risks. Understanding fire-rated materials, staying current on state programs, and maintaining comprehensive coverage protects your business while positioning you to serve homeowners in fire-prone communities.

At Farmer Brown Insurance Services, we specialize in helping contractors across all 50 states find the right coverage for their unique situations. Whether you’re working in California’s wildfire zones or expanding into new markets, our team can help you navigate the complex insurance landscape and find competitive rates.

Ready to review your roofing contractor insurance? Contact Farmer Brown Insurance Services today for a personalized quote and expert guidance on protecting your business during wildfire season and beyond.

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