Roofing is one of the best-paid construction trades and one of the hardest to recruit for. The combination of heights, weather exposure, and physical demands means there's always more demand than supply for qualified roofers.
The trade covers several specialisms: slating and tiling (pitched roofs), flat roofing (felt, single-ply, liquid), leadwork, and increasingly solar panel integration. Most roofers start with pitched roofing and specialise from there.
Course Options
Level 2 Diploma in Roofing
£2,000 - £4,000Covers slating, tiling, and basic flat roofing. Health & safety at height, roof construction principles, and weatherproofing. The standard entry qualification.
NVQ Level 2 in Roofing Occupations
£2,000 - £4,500Workplace-assessed qualification covering pitched and/or flat roofing. Required for CSCS card. Assessed on real roofing work with portfolio evidence.
Lead Work Certification (LWC)
£1,000 - £2,500Specialist qualification in traditional and modern leadwork. Highly valued — lead workers command premium rates, especially on heritage buildings.
Roofing Apprenticeship
Free (employer-funded)Learn on real roofs with experienced roofers. The best route for confidence at height and practical skill development.
Career Prospects
Roofers earn £28,000 - £42,000 employed, with self-employed roofers on £35,000 - £60,000+. Lead workers and heritage roofing specialists can earn £50,000 - £70,000+. Emergency storm damage work commands premium rates.
Roofing is seasonal in terms of intensity (busiest spring-autumn) but never truly quiet — repairs, maintenance, and emergency work continue year-round.
How to Choose a Training Provider
Make sure the training centre has actual roof rigs you can work on at height — not just ground-level mock-ups. Working at height confidence is half the battle in roofing. Check they cover both pitched and flat roofing basics. Ask about IPAF/PASMA cherry picker and scaffold training as extras.
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Read our complete career guide: How to Become a Roofer →
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is roofing dangerous?
It involves working at height which carries inherent risk, but with proper training, PPE, edge protection, and safe working practices it's managed effectively. Falls from height are the biggest risk in construction — training covers this extensively.
How fit do I need to be?
Roofing is physically demanding — climbing ladders, carrying materials, working in awkward positions on pitched surfaces. You don't need to be an athlete but reasonable fitness and no fear of heights are essential.
What's the best roofing specialism?
Leadwork pays the most per hour. Flat roofing (single-ply) is the fastest growing. Solar integration is the emerging opportunity. Pitched slating/tiling is the bread-and-butter that always has work.
Can I start roofing as a career changer?
Yes — many roofers start later in life. A Level 2 course gets you the basics in 14-26 weeks. Be realistic about the physical demands though, especially if you're over 40.
Do roofers need a CSCS card?
For any construction site work, yes. You need to pass the CITB test and hold or be working toward a roofing NVQ.