What Is the Roofing Law in Florida?

The roof rule in Florida primarily revolves around the 25% rule, which states that if more than 25% of a roof is damaged, the entire roof must be replaced to comply with the current building code. However, this rule was amended under Senate Bill 4D in 2022. For homes built or updated under the 2007 Florida Building Code or later, only the damaged portion needs to be brought up to current standards, even if the damage exceeds 25%. This change helps homeowners save costs while ensuring the safety and compliance of their roofs.

Florida law requires roofing contractors to meet strict licensing standards through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. They must adhere to state building codes, provide warranties for roof installations, and ensure transparency in their agreements. The 2024 updates under House Bill 939 add additional consumer protections, including extended cancellation rights during states of emergency and mandatory disclosure of contract terms. Contractors who fail to meet these requirements may face legal penalties and loss of their license.

The most recent law impacting roof replacement in Florida is Senate Bill 2D, which was passed in 2022. It includes provisions preventing insurance companies from denying coverage based solely on roof age for roofs less than 15 years old. For roofs older than 15 years, homeowners can obtain a roof inspection, and if it shows at least five years of remaining life, insurers cannot deny coverage based on age. This law also revised the 25% rule, allowing partial replacements for homes meeting modern building codes.

Storm damage on a roof can manifest differently depending on the type of storm. Hurricanes often cause missing shingles, damaged flashing, or structural deformations. Hailstorms typically leave pockmarks, dents, or bruising on shingles, which can compromise their integrity. High winds can lift or curl shingles, detach gutters, and expose the underlayment, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks. Heavy rain may result in water pooling on flat roof sections or leaks that seep into your home. Each type of storm damage weakens your roof’s ability to protect your home, and addressing it promptly is essential to prevent further deterioration.

While Florida doesn’t have a formal “10-year roof law,” roofs nearing 10 years often come under scrutiny by insurance companies. Many insurers assess these roofs for potential risks, and homeowners may face policy changes or premium increases. However, Florida laws like Senate Bill 2D prevent insurers from denying coverage based solely on roof age for roofs less than 15 years old. For older roofs, an inspection can certify their remaining lifespan, ensuring coverage if the roof is still viable.