Basic Formula
Workers compensation cost per roofer is found by multiplying the employee's annual payroll by the applicable workers comp rate for roofing, then adding any experience‑modification factor.
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Step‑by‑Step Calculation
1. Determine total annual payroll for the roofer (including wages, overtime, and bonuses).
2. Find the state‑specific workers comp classification code for roofing (usually 5401) and its base rate per $100 of payroll.
3. Apply the base rate: (Payroll ÷ 100) × Base Rate.
4. Adjust for the employer's experience‑modification factor (EMR), which reflects past claim history. Multiply the result from step 3 by the EMR.
5. Add any additional surcharges (e.g., state fees, policy fees) to arrive at the final cost.
Example Table
| Item | Detail | Calculation |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Payroll | $55,000 | — |
| Base Rate | $2.30 per $100 | (55,000 ÷ 100) × 2.30 = $1,265 |
| EMR | 1.10 | $1,265 × 1.10 = $1,391.50 |
| Additional Fees | $50 | $1,391.50 + $50 = $1,441.50 |
Factors Influencing the Rate
Rates vary by state, the roofer's experience level, safety record, and whether the work includes high‑risk tasks like steep‑slope work or hot‑tar applications.
Budgeting Tips
Use the calculated cost as a baseline, then add a contingency of 5‑10% for rate changes or payroll fluctuations throughout the year.