The 25% roof rule is the Florida Building Code limit on how much of an existing roof can be repaired or replaced before the whole roof or roof section has to meet current code, and Florida law now adds an exception for roofs already built to newer code. This is general information, not legal advice: confirm your project with a licensed roofing contractor, your local building department, and your insurer for coverage questions.
What to look for
- Statute language. Florida law includes an exception for qualifying existing roofs. The statute states: “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 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.” Full text is in Florida Statutes section on roofing.
- Licensed roofer. Roofing for hire needs a licensed roofing contractor. Verify on the Florida DBPR license search.
- Insurance. Carriers may have separate matching or replacement rules; that is between you and your insurer.
Questions to ask
- What share of my roof are you repairing or replacing?
- Was the existing roof permitted under a recent Florida Building Code edition?
- Will you pull the permit, and what does the building department require?
- Are you a licensed roofing contractor I can verify?
- How will new materials match existing shingles if only part is replaced?
- What paperwork will I have for insurance or resale?
Questions about partial roof work in Sarasota? Ask below.