Florida’s New Roofing Law: What It Means for Hurricane Damage and Your Home
Florida has a new roofing legislation that has caused quite a stir in the roofing industry. There’s been a lot of discussion on social media about how the law will affect homeowners and their ability to repair or replace their roofs after a hurricane. In this article, we’ll break down what the new law entails, how it affects homeowners, and offer some tips on filing insurance claims.
The 25% Rule
One of the most significant changes in the new law is the elimination of the 25% roofing restriction. Previously, a roof had to be replaced if it was damaged by more than 25%. However, under the new law, a significant portion of your hurricane-damaged roof may be patched rather than replaced. The insurance industry successfully persuaded Florida lawmakers to discontinue adhering to best practices in roofing construction, paving the way for repairs and patches rather than full replacements.
The Building Commission of Florida had regulations in place that stipulated “not more than 25 percent of the total roof area or roof section of any existing building or structure shall be repaired, replaced, or recovered in any 12-month period unless the entire existing roofing system or roof section is replaced to conform to the requirements of this code.”
Here is the new law [Florida Statutes 553.844(5)] which effectively overrides this longstanding building code:
“Notwithstanding any provision in the Florida Building Code to the contrary, if an existing roofing system or roof section was built, repaired, or replaced in compliance with the requirements of the 2007 Florida Building Code, or any subsequent editions of the Florida Building Code, and 25 percent or more of such a roofing system or roof section is being repaired, replaced, or recovered, only the repaired, replaced, or recovered portion is required to be constructed in accordance with the Florida Building Code in effect, as applicable. The Florida Building Commission shall adopt this exception by rule and incorporate it in the Florida Building Code….a local government may not adopt by ordinance an administrative or technical amendment to this exception. …”
New Claim Process Laws
The new law also introduces new ordinances governing the referral of cases to attorneys. Previously, a roofer could not contest the policy during the claim process. One would have to hire a PA or attorney to address any issues. The lawyers would then proceed to contest the allegations.
The new laws will undoubtedly reduce the number of claims. They will be slower and more difficult, giving the attorneys little opportunity to intervene.
Tips on Filing Hurricane Insurance Claims
If a hurricane damages your house, knowing what to do if you need to make an insurance claim can help lessen your uncertainty and anxiety as you start the recovery process. Here are some tips to help you with filing your claim:
File an Insurance Claim
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to file your claim. You can usually do this via a 1-800 number, but you may find yourself on hold. Some companies have online portals or apps for making a report.
Prevent Further Damage
Put tarps on damaged roofs and cover broken windows, but only if it’s safe to do so. Failing to mitigate additional damage to your property may result in a claim being denied. If you’re spending money to prevent damage, whether it’s supplies or hiring help, keep detailed records for the insurance company. Every policy is different, but many policies cover around $3,000 of damage mitigation.
Storm Proof Roofing Systems Can Help You Navigate Florida's New Roofing Laws
If you are a homeowner in Florida who has suffered roof damage from a hurricane, you may be wondering how the state’s new roofing laws will impact your insurance claim and repair process. As a trusted roofing contractor in Florida, Storm Proof Roofing Systems is here to help you understand these new regulations and how they may affect you.
Understanding the 25% Rule
One of the most significant changes to Florida’s roofing laws is the elimination of the 25% roofing restriction. This rule previously stated that not more than 25% of the total roof area or roof section of any existing building or structure could be repaired, replaced, or recovered in any 12-month period unless the entire existing roofing system or roof section was replaced to conform to the requirements of the Florida Building Code.
However, Florida Statutes 553.844(5) has effectively overridden this code. Under the new law, if an existing roofing system or roof section was built, repaired, or replaced in compliance with the 2007 Florida Building Code or any subsequent editions, and 25% or more of such a roofing system or roof section is being repaired, replaced, or recovered, only the repaired, replaced, or recovered portion is required to be constructed in accordance with the Florida Building Code in effect.
New Claim Process Laws
In addition to the 25% rule, there are also new ordinances governing the referral of cases to attorneys. It is well recognized that a roofer cannot contest the policy during the claim process. In order to address such matters, one would need to hire a PA or attorney. The lawyers would then proceed to contest the allegations.
These new laws may reduce the number of claims, making the process slower and more difficult. However, with the help of Storm Proof Roofing Systems, you can ensure that your claim is handled properly and efficiently.
Tips for Filing Hurricane Insurance Claims
Filing an insurance claim can be a confusing and stressful process, especially after a hurricane. However, there are steps you can take to make the process smoother and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
File Your Claim as Soon as Possible
The first step in filing a hurricane insurance claim is to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. This can usually be done via a 1-800 number, but you may find yourself on hold. Some companies have online portals or apps for making a report. The sooner you file your claim, the sooner the insurance company can begin processing it.
You Have Two Years to File Your Claim
Florida law requires that all hurricane damage claims be filed within two years of the date of loss.
