Tax Tips for Roofers – Claim Every Deduction & Boost Your Refund

Roofers can claim tax deductions for tools, motor vehicle costs, protective clothing, sun protection, licences, training, and more. With GoTax, you’ll finalise your online tax return fast — and make sure your refund is through the roof.

What Roofers Can Claim on Their Tax Return

If you’re a roofer, you’ve got plenty of legitimate tax deductions waiting for you. From fuel and tools to protective gear and sunblock, these costs add up — and they can all help lower your taxable income. The trick is knowing what counts, what doesn’t, and keeping the right records. That’s where GoTax makes it simple.

Common Roofer Tax Deductions

FAQs for Roofers

Can roofers claim motor vehicle expenses?

Yes. You can claim driving between job sites, picking up materials, or carrying bulky tools. You can’t claim ordinary home-to-work travel unless you’re carrying essential bulky gear and have nowhere safe to leave it.

Do I need a logbook for my car claim?

Yes. Keep a 12-week logbook or track kilometres under the cents-per-km method. Without records, you can’t claim.

Can I claim protective clothing and laundry?

Yes. Hard hats, steel-caps, hi-vis, safety glasses, and laundry costs are deductible. Branded uniforms with logos also qualify.

Can I claim normal clothes for roofing?

No. Jeans, singlets, and ordinary workwear don’t count — only protective or logo gear does.

Can roofers claim tools and equipment?

Yes. You can claim toolkits, nailguns, saw horses, drills, and more. Items under $300 are deductible instantly; over $300 must be depreciated.

Can roofers claim computers or laptops?

Yes. If you use them for quoting, invoicing, or roofing admin, you can claim the work portion.

Can roofers claim sun protection?

Yes. Working outdoors means sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are deductible.

Can roofers claim training courses?

Yes, if the training directly relates to your roofing work (e.g. safety tickets, upskilling).

Can roofers claim insurance?

Yes. Income protection insurance is deductible. Other personal insurances are not.

Can roofers claim licences and permits?

Yes, but only if they’re work-related (e.g. construction tickets). Driver’s licences are not deductible.

Can roofers claim travel and accommodation?

Yes, if you work away from home and aren’t reimbursed by your employer.

Can roofers claim phone and internet?

Yes. If you use your phone or data for roofing jobs, calls, or apps, you can claim the work portion.

Do I need receipts for all claims?

Yes. The ATO’s three golden rules apply:

• You paid for it yourself and weren’t reimbursed.

• It directly relates to earning your income.

• You have records to prove it.

The Roofer’s Tax Checklist

• ABN Registered (if contracting)

• All Income Declared

• Business Expenses Claimed

• Home Office Costs Sorted

• Super Contributions Considered

• GST Registered (if earning $75,000+)

• eCashbooks in Use

• Bank Account Separated

• Receipts Saved Digitally or on Paper

• Records Kept for 5 Years

Your tax refund could be through the roof — but only if you claim everything you’re entitled to. GoTax makes it dead easy for roofers: enter your details, tick off your deductions, and finalise your return online without the fuss. The cheapest, fastest way to get your roofing tax return sorted is right here: www.gotax.com.au.