Sic Code for Roofing Contractors: How to Find and Use the Right Classification

The Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code is a vital identifier for roofing contractors used by government agencies, insurers, lenders, and business directories. This article explains common SIC codes for roofing contractors, how to choose the correct code, differences with NAICS, and practical uses to help roofing businesses remain compliant and visible. Accurate SIC classification improves licensing, contracting opportunities, and industry reporting.

Activity	Common SIC Code	Notes
Roofing Construction (Nonresidential & Residential)	1761	General roofing contractors for slate, shingles, and built-up roofing
Roofing Materials Manufacturing	5251	Wholesale of roofing materials
Roofing Services (Contract Repair)	1761 / 1799	1761 for primary roofing; 1799 for miscellaneous building services
Roofing Installation Subcontractors	1761	Used by subcontractors engaged primarily in roofing

What Is An SIC Code And Why Roofing Contractors Need One

The SIC system assigns a four-digit code to business activities to standardize industry reporting. For roofing contractors, an SIC code is used by creditors, government agencies, and data vendors to categorize the business. Having the correct SIC code ensures accurate industry statistics, easier permit processing, and improved eligibility for specialized contracts and insurance.

Primary SIC Codes Relevant To Roofing Contractors

The most widely used SIC code for roofing contractors is 1761 — Roofing, Siding, and Sheet Metal Work. This code covers firms engaged in roofing, roof repair, and related sheet metal work. Some companies may also fall under 1799 — Special Trade Contractors, Not Elsewhere Classified when operations are diverse or not strictly roofing focused.

1761: Roofing, Siding, And Sheet Metal Work

Code 1761 is appropriate for companies whose primary business is roofing installation, re-roofing, and repair for residential and commercial structures. This code includes work such as shingle replacement, built-up roofing, single-ply membranes, and sheet metal flashing. Use 1761 when roofing is the primary revenue source.

1799: Special Trade Contractors, Not Elsewhere Classified

Code 1799 is sometimes used for contractors performing mixed specialty services or unique roofing-related trades that do not perfectly fit 1761. Examples include niche roof coating services or combined exterior service providers. Choose 1799 only if roofing is part of a broader set of specialized trades.

Other Related SIC Codes

Additional SIC codes may apply depending on business activities: 1521 for general contractors (if roofing is part of general building construction), 5251 for wholesale distributors of roofing materials, and repair-oriented codes under 7699 for specialty maintenance providers. Accurate selection depends on the principal business activity.

How To Determine The Correct SIC Code For A Roofing Business

Determining the correct SIC code requires evaluating the business’s primary revenue source, services offered, and customer base. The principal activity—what generates the most income—should dictate the code. Document the percentage of revenue from roofing installation vs. other services to justify the chosen code.

1. Review Service Mix — List services (installation, repair, materials supply) and their revenue shares.
2. Match Activities To Descriptions — Compare business activities with SIC code definitions on official lists.
3. Check Regulatory Requirements — Licensing boards and local jurisdictions may require specific codes for permits.
4. Consult With Accountant Or Business Advisor — They can confirm the best classification for tax and compliance reasons.

Differences Between SIC And NAICS For Roofing Contractors

The SIC system is older and uses four-digit codes, while NAICS is a newer, six-digit system adopted for more granular classifications. For roofing contractors, the equivalent NAICS codes include 238160 — Roofing Contractors and 238170 — Siding Contractors. Agencies may request either code depending on reporting needs.

While SIC is still widely used in legacy databases and some state agencies, NAICS is preferred by federal statistical agencies and many lenders. Roofing businesses should be prepared to provide both codes when requested.

Where To Look Up SIC Codes And Verify Classification

Reliable sources for SIC lookup include the U.S. Department of Labor, industry association websites, the U.S. Census Bureau (for NAICS mapping), and commercial data providers such as Dun & Bradstreet. Verify classification with local licensing agencies and insurers to ensure consistency.

• U.S. Department Of Labor — Official SIC manuals and code lists.
• Census Bureau — Crosswalks between SIC and NAICS.
• State Licensing Boards — Contractor license classifications and requirements.
• Commercial Data Services — D&B and credit bureaus that may list an SIC code for the business.

Common Uses For SIC Codes In The Roofing Industry

SIC codes support a range of business processes: financial underwriting, insurance risk classification, government contracting, market research, and directory listings. SIC codes influence how insurers rate risk, how lenders assess business stability, and how agencies find qualified vendors for public contracts.

Insurance And Risk Classification

Insurers often use SIC codes to assign classification codes that determine premiums and coverage options. A misclassified roofing contractor might receive incorrect rates or ineligible coverage. Ensuring the correct SIC code helps secure appropriate insurance policies and premium levels.

Government Contracting And Bidding

Public agencies and large contractors frequently filter vendor lists by SIC or NAICS codes. Roofing contractors with accurate codes are more likely to appear in searches for bid opportunities. Update registrations in procurement portals to reflect the correct classification.

Business Credit And Lending

Credit bureaus and lenders use SIC codes as part of industry risk profiling. A roofing contractor with an appropriate SIC code aligned to core operations can receive more accurate credit assessments. Maintaining consistent code usage across registrations and credit profiles improves lender confidence.

Practical Tips For Roofing Contractors When Reporting SIC Codes

Consistency is critical when reporting SIC codes on licenses, bank accounts, insurance applications, and business registrations. Keep documentation that supports the classification, such as invoices, contracts, and revenue breakdowns. Use the same primary code across major business profiles to avoid confusion.

• Maintain Clear Records — Keep revenue reports showing roofing vs. non-roofing income.
• Review Annually — Reclassify if the service mix changes significantly.
• Inform Insurers And Lenders — Notify partners when primary activities shift.
• Use Crosswalks — Provide both SIC and NAICS codes when requested by agencies.

Examples And Case Studies

Example 1: A residential roofing firm with 90% revenue from shingle installation and repair would use SIC 1761 and NAICS 238160. This classification helps the firm qualify for roofing-specific insurance and contractor directories.

Example 2: A company offering exterior remodeling, including roofing, siding, and painting, with roofing constituting 40% of revenue might use SIC 1799 or register under a general contracting code depending on licensing requirements. Clear documentation of revenue percentages is essential for this mixed model.

Frequently Asked Questions About SIC Codes For Roofing Contractors

Q: Can a roofing company use more than one SIC code? A: Registrations usually allow a primary SIC and additional secondary codes. Use the primary for the main revenue driver and list secondary codes for ancillary services.

Q: Do SIC codes affect taxes? A: SIC codes themselves do not determine taxes, but they influence industry statistics and may affect eligibility for certain tax credits or programs targeted at specific industries.

Q: How often should a contractor update their SIC code? A: Update whenever the company’s principal business activity changes materially, such as shifting from installation to materials distribution.

Resources And Tools For Verifying SIC Codes

Useful resources include the OSHA SIC manual, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration website for legacy SIC lists, the Census Bureau NAICS-SIC concordance tables, and industry groups like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). These resources help confirm proper classification and provide documentation for regulators and insurers.

• OSHA SIC Manual
• Census Bureau Crosswalks
• NRCA Industry Resources

Action Checklist For Roofing Contractors

1. Identify Primary Service — Confirm which activity generates the majority of revenue.
2. Select Appropriate Code — Use 1761 primarily for roofing; consider 1799 for mixed specialties.
3. Document Revenue — Maintain records to support code selection.
4. Update Registrations — Ensure consistent SIC/NAICS use across licenses, insurers, and lenders.
5. Review Periodically — Reassess classification after business model changes.

Accurate SIC classification helps roofing contractors secure proper insurance, appear in relevant procurement searches, and maintain clear compliance records. Applying the guidance above will help contractors select and use the most appropriate SIC code for their operations.