If you’re searching for commercial roofing contractors near me in Queensland, this guide explains the QBCC licensing reforms that took effect on 1 February 2026 and how to use them to choose a qualified contractor for commercial roof repairs, restoration, or replacement. The changes might seem minor, but for property owners, building managers, and businesses, checking a roofer’s licence, insurance, and site compliance before hiring a commercial roofer can help avoid legal issues, safety risks, and costly mistakes. Here’s what has changed, how to verify a commercial roofer’s licence, what questions to ask before signing, and what to look for in materials, project quotes, and contractor credentials.
Key takeaways
What changed under new 2026 QBCC amendments
The new reforms streamline licensing processes and fee structures. The changes include the following.
Digitising QBCC licence applications
The QBCC wants to reduce friction for parties wanting to get licensed. As part of that effort, they’re offering some services electronically. One major change is that the QBCC can now issue a digital licence. Instead of rummaging through a drawer for a physical copy, it can be stored on a mobile phone. Photo identification requirements have also been simplified.
New provisions also clarify the costs, distinguishing between the following two fees:
The licence application fee when applying.
The licence fee for the licence to be granted.
Simplified safety reporting
Contractors used to have to report notifiable safety incidents to both Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) and the QBCC. Now, reports only need to be made to WHSQ. However, the penalty for failing to report serious incidents has been increased.
New penalty infringement notice
Section 109C of the QBCC Act 1991 requires that licensees must update their contact information registered with the QBCC within 14 days of any changes. Previously, infringements of this requirement had to be prosecuted in court. New powers allow the QBCC to issue an on-the-spot fine of 1 penalty unit ($172.70 as of 1 July 2026) for a Section 109c infringement.
How to verify a commercial roofer's QBCC licence
The QBCC keeps track of licensees on their register. This contains the information of all building contractors licensed to work in Queensland. You can generally find a roofer’s licence number on their website. Request it from them directly if you can’t. You can get crucial information, such as:
If the licence is currently active.
Whether the licence holder’s name matches the business you’re engaging.
That the licence class covers the commercial roofing project.
Any disciplinary actions taken against the contractor.
The contractor’s work history.
Qualified roofing contractors should also have a proven track record, over 30 years of experience, and a history handling commercial roofing projects of all sizes.
Qualified contractors are also fully insured. This can include coverage under the Home Warranty Insurance Scheme and public liability insurance, which protects against potential property damage or injury. You can request this information from the contractor, along with references from similar-sized projects.
What to ask for before you sign
Understand what they can offer before starting work on your commercial building. Here are some key questions.
What work is included?
Make sure that they can provide the services you need for commercial buildings, including larger commercial complexes. This could include projects such as:
Commercial roof restoration.
Asbestos roof removal.
Commercial roof replacement, including a new roof installation and complete roof replacements.
Commercial roof repairs.
Gutter replacement as part of broader roofing work, including gutters.
Commercial roof inspection.
After the inspection, the contractor should confirm whether an ageing roof needs repairs, restoration, or to be fully roof replaced.
What materials will you use?
Experienced roofing contractors use high-grade materials for roofing. A commercial metal roofing contractor may use products such as Colorbond and Zincalume steel. This helps commercial properties maintain roof durability after a complete roof replacement. The right material may also help lower power bills, and roof restoration can improve energy efficiency in commercial buildings because quality roofing materials support better insulation and lower energy bills.
The material should suit the local climate. For example, in roofing Brisbane projects, metal roofing like Colorbond can handle Brisbane’s heat and heavy rainfall, while supporting insulation and ventilation. It’s also lightweight yet durable and strong, and in Queensland most roofs last between 20 and 30 years, with metal roofs often lasting 20 to 30 years while being more fire resistant than many alternatives.
Who will perform the work?
Commercial and industrial roofing contractors may complete the job with their own roofers, or work alongside subcontractors. If they do, it’s important to know factors like:
What work will they be responsible for?
Do they have the appropriate licence?
How will they be supervised?
Who is responsible if a subcontractor damages the property?
Ask whether the roofing company has extensive experience working with builders on comparable commercial jobs.
If you operate in an older building, you may need asbestos removal. If a subcontractor works on that area, they need the right certification. It’s also important that the contractor has robust safety protocols and a workplace health and safety plan. Confirm who from the company is accountable for quality workmanship, communication, and site oversight. An experienced team is more likely to deliver excellent service and exceptional results.
How long will the project take?
Based on your needs, a contractor should be able to give you a rough estimate of how long the job will take. This could span from an initial comprehensive roof inspection to see the roof’s condition to project completion.
Can you provide a free quote?
Quotes help property owners compare the scope of work as well as pricing, not just the total cost. These include:
The scope of the work to be completed.
The materials and labour that are included.
An itemised breakdown of all costs, noting that roof replacement costs depend on roof size and pitch.
Safety measures that will be needed based on the roof’s pitch and design.
What workmanship warranty is provided.
Clients and customers should compare value, inclusions, and competitive prices rather than choosing a contractor on the lowest great price alone.
You may also want to ask for references to other projects the contractor has completed.
Conclusion
A phased set of reforms to QBCC processes has important implications for South-East Queensland roofing companies. Licensing has been streamlined. Compliance measures have also been modified to permit faster disciplinary action in some cases. Before hiring a contractor for your commercial roofing needs, review their licence and speak to them about their roofing solutions.
Are you looking for commercial roofing services?
Infinite Roofing has experience managing the metal roofing needs of commercial and industrial properties for clients across South East Queensland, including Brisbane, Kenmore Hills, and the Sunshine Coast. We also work extensively in residential roofing services. Contact us for a free quote.
