What Florida Homeowners Need to Know About Roofing Laws

As a home or business owner in Florida, being in the know on the state’s roofing laws is advantageous, given the extreme heat and severe storms that can wreak havoc to a structure’s roof. Whether you're hiring a contractor to replace a roof or repairing damage after a storm, knowing Florida’s roofing laws can help you make informed decisions, ensuring that your project is safe, legal, and up to code.

Here’s a breakdown of essential roofing laws and regulations that contractors must follow and why, as a consumer, you should care.

📝 Licensing and Certification

In Florida, roofing contractors are required to hold a valid state license or local license issued through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). A certified roofing contractor has passed a state-level exam and is licensed to work anywhere in Florida, while a registered roofing contractor is licensed in a specific locality and may only work in certain areas.

By hiring a licensed contractor, you are protecting yourself from any unforeseen issues. A licensed contractor is bonded and insured, so if something goes awry, you are not on the hook, it is their responsibility to right the wrong. Licensed contractors are required to stay up to date on safety regulations and building code laws to ensure all work done meets industry standards and passes inspections. As a homeowner, don’t just assume a contractor is licensed, ask to see an official license prior to hiring a contractor.

📝 Florida Building Code (FBC)

The Florida Building Code (FBC) is a set of standards, developed by the Florida Building Commission, that regulates building construction in Florida, ensuring buildings are safe, energy-efficient, and resistant to Florida’s extreme weather conditions, including hurricanes. FBC covers everything from structural integrity to wind load resistance and applies to all roof installations and repairs. 

As a Florida homeowner, insurance isn’t required, but more than highly recommended , as your home is often your largest asset. Insurance companies almost always require that your roof meets standards and codes to qualify for coverage and can help keep your premiums lower.  

A licensed roofing contractor should be informed and knowledgeable on FBC standards, ensuring your roof is repaired, replaced or installed within code, protecting your house from Florida’s weather and unexpected damages.

📝 Permits and Inspections

A permit is typically required for any roofing project in Florida. Whether it's a new roof, a replacement or a repair, contractors need to submit a permit application, ensuring that the completed work is inspected for compliance with building code. Obtaining a permit for a roofing project also helps with future resale value as having proper permits and inspections proves that your roof is up to standards and that work was done within legal requirements.

It’s important that all necessary permits are pulled by your contractor prior to work commencing in order to protect yourself from running into any code issues down the line.

Insurance and Workers' Compensation: Avoiding Liability

Roofing contractors in Florida are required by law to carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. These policies protect both you and the contractor in case of accidents or damage during the roofing process.

Always ask for proof of insurance before hiring a contractor. 

Roofing laws in Florida protect both the contractors and home and business owners. By hiring a licensed, insured, and knowledgeable roofing contractor your roofing project will be done within the state’s building codes and regulations.

3MG is committed to adhering to all Florida roofing laws and providing our customers with quality craftsmanship on every project.