Key Takeaways
- Florida’s House Bill 715 updates roofing laws, expanding contractor responsibilities and consumer protections.
- Licensed roofers can now strengthen roof‑to‑wall connections during repairs or replacements.
- Roofing contracts must include bolded notices advising homeowners to review insurance coverage and cancellation rights.
- Homeowners can cancel contracts without penalty if signed within 180 days of a state‑declared emergency in the affected area.
- The law improves transparency and ensures roofing work meets Florida Building Code standards.
Roofing is one of the most important investments a homeowner can make, especially in Florida, where hurricanes and severe storms are a frequent threat. Staying updated on the latest rules and protections can help you avoid costly mistakes and reduce stress when planning repairs or replacements.
In this article, we’ll break down Florida’s recent roofing law changes and what they mean for homeowners. Whether you’re considering a new roof or post-storm repairs, working with a trusted roofing contractor in Sarasota ensures the work is done safely, legally, and in compliance with updated regulations.
What Changed in Florida’s Roofing Law?
Florida made significant changes to its roofing laws with the passage of House Bill 715, which became law on May 19, 2025. This update amended existing rules governing roofing work and added new consumer protections for residential roofing contracts.
One key change is the expanded scope of work for roofing contractors. Licensed professionals can now strengthen roof‑to‑wall connections on wood roof decking during repairs or replacements. This ensures important storm‑mitigation work is explicitly included in legally permitted roofing services.
The law also introduced new contract notice requirements. Contractors must advise homeowners to review insurance coverage, including deductibles and claim procedures, and include cancellation language for contracts signed after a state‑declared emergency, giving homeowners additional protection in post-storm situations.
What Other Changes Did House Bill 715 Make to Roofing Contracts?
In addition to expanding what licensed roofing contractors can do, the law also revises homeowners’ rights and contract cancellation rules. Under the updated provisions:
- The traditional 10‑day cancellation period now applies only when the roofing contract is signed within 180 days of a state‑declared emergency, and the home is within the area covered by that emergency. This change gives homeowners time to review their options after major storms without unduly extending open‑ended cancellation rights.
- Roofing contracts must now include explicit notice language advising homeowners to contact their insurance company before signing. This notice must outline important details such as potential coverage limits, deductibles, and reimbursement terms for roof repair or replacement related to an insurance claim.
- When contracts are signed because of a state of emergency, contractors are also required to include bold‑type font statements outlining cancellation rights and insurance review guidance.
These provisions are designed to increase consumer awareness and help homeowners make informed decisions before entering into potentially costly agreements.
How Has the Definition of ‘Roofing Contractor’ Changed?
One of the most significant updates under HB 715 is how the law now defines what a licensed roofing contractor is allowed to perform:
- The statutory definition now expressly includes the evaluation and enhancement of roof‑to‑wall connections for structures with wood roof decking.
- This change clarifies that enhancements and inspections of these structural elements can be performed alongside roof replacement or repair, provided they comply with applicable building codes and inspection standards.
- The intent is to allow roofers to help homeowners make storm‑mitigation improvements that previously may have been ambiguous or restricted under the old definition — particularly critical in a hurricane‑prone state like Florida.
By broadening the scope of work, the law aims to support safer, more resilient roofing systems while providing clearer guidance for contractors.
Why These Changes Matter for Florida Homeowners
These updates reflect a push by the state legislature to strengthen consumer protections and clarify contractor responsibilities in an industry that sees intense activity after storms. Here’s how homeowners benefit:
Improved transparency — Clear notice requirements help homeowners understand insurance obligations and contract terms before committing.
More defined cancellation rights — By narrowing cancellation conditions tied to state emergencies, the law protects homeowners from rushed decisions while still offering a meaningful window post‑disaster.
Expanded contractor services — Roofers can now legally perform important structural work (like strengthening roof‑to‑wall connections), helping homes be better prepared for future high‑wind events.
Altogether, these changes aim to balance homeowner protections with practical roofing industry standards in Florida’s unique weather environment. For the full text and official details of House Bill 715, homeowners can visit the Florida Senate website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are roofing contractors allowed to perform hurricane strap upgrades?
Under the updated definition in HB 715, licensed roofing contractors are now explicitly allowed to evaluate and enhance roof‑to‑wall connections, commonly known as hurricane straps, as part of a repair or replacement project — provided the work meets the Florida Building Code or other approved standards.
Can homeowners still cancel a roofing contract after a state emergency?
Yes, but the conditions have changed under HB 715. Homeowners can cancel a roofing contract without penalty only if the contract was signed within 180 days of a state‑declared emergency and the property is within the geographic area covered by that declaration. The 10‑day cancellation window runs from the date the contract is signed or the official start date — whichever comes first.
Does the new law affect how contractors must format notices in contracts?
Yes. When the required cancellation and insurance review language must be included in a contract, Florida law now specifies that this language must be in bold 14‑point font so it’s conspicuous to homeowners. This ensures important rights aren’t buried in fine print.
Are roof‑to‑wall connection upgrades automatically covered by insurance?
Not necessarily. Even though licensed contractors can now perform storm‑mitigation enhancements like strengthening roof‑to‑wall connections under HB 715, coverage for those improvements depends on the homeowner’s insurance policy and its terms. That’s why the law requires explicit notice advising homeowners to verify what their insurance will cover before signing a contract.
What should I check before hiring a roofing contractor aside from the new law requirements?
Homeowners should always verify that a roofer is licensed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and carries adequate insurance coverage (liability and workers’ compensation). Request proof before signing any agreement to protect yourself from liability and poor workmanship.
Florida House Bill 715 Roofing Law: Key Takeaways
Florida’s updated roofing law under House Bill 715 provides homeowners with clearer protections, more transparency, and expanded contractor services that support safer, storm-ready homes. By understanding the new requirements for contracts, cancellations, and roof-to-wall upgrades, homeowners can make informed decisions and ensure their roofing projects comply with state regulations.
If you’re planning a roof replacement or repair, trust the experts at Strong Roofing to guide you through every step. Our licensed professionals ensure your project complies with Florida law, includes proper storm‑mitigation measures, and is completed safely and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your home for years to come.
