As a residential homeowner in the Pacific Northwest, do you know if your municipality requires a permit for roof replacement? The answer to this question may determine your course of action when replacing a roof. Securing a permit for roof replacement may necessitate a licensed roofing contractor with the appropriate qualifications and credentials to ensure the successful completion of all paperwork.
What Is A Roofing Permit?
Municipalities (township, city, and county governments) often require a roofing permit before performing a roof replacement, reroof, or other significant roof repair. A local ordinance, zoning law, or building code typically dictates securing a roof permit, which ensures the roofing project fulfills a standard of quality established by the municipality.
Securing A Permit For Roof Replacement
As a homeowner, you may wonder why hiring a licensed roofing contractor to obtain a permit makes more sense than doing it yourself.
1. Ensures The Application Is Completed Accurately
Applying for a roofing permit involves many steps that a homeowner might not understand and may need repeating if not initially done correctly. Most homeowners do not routinely file permit applications. Roofers know what information to include and, more importantly, how to present it to fulfill the municipality’s requirements.
2. Protects The Homeowner From Costly Fines
Never risk replacing a roof without a permit. DIYers may think that doing it yourself will avoid the necessity of pulling a permit. Wrong. Similarly, homeowners might believe that working with a roofer who claims a permit isn’t required will be acceptable. Wrong again. Local governments have a fee structure for not securing a permit.
3. Guarantees Work Meets A Defined Standard
Issuance and approval of a roofing permit are tied to local building codes and regulations. These laws provide a means of compliance to protect homeowners from substandard construction. In this respect, homeowners avoid legal, financial, and safety consequences associated with faulty workmanship or crude materials.
4. Safeguards The Homeowner From Liability
A homeowner may incur substantial financial and legal liabilities by pursuing a construction project without securing a building permit. Instead of assuming the risks of substandard craftsmanship and inadequate materials, the permit process ensures responsible construction. Current homeowners and future homebuyers benefit from this process.
When Is A Residential Roof Permit Required?
In Washington State, a homeowner will need to pull a permit in the following circumstances:
- New construction of a single-family home or duplex.
- An addition, alteration, or remodel of an existing structure.
- Adding a second story to a home.
- Repairing or replacing sheathing.
- Note: Reroofing a single-family home or duplex will not require a permit.
How Does The Permit Process Work
Washington State dictates the process for obtaining a permit for residential roof replacement. Local municipalities statewide adhere to these requirements. The process of getting a permit can be quite involved. A homeowner can avoid the stress of securing a permit and receiving final inspection approval by working with a qualified, licensed roofing contractor.
1. Apply and pay for a permit.
Although in-person options may exist, most municipalities and government agencies allow homeowners or their agents (e.g., licensed roofing contractors) to file for a permit online. This filing and review process can be expedited in as little as one day.
As a homeowner, you could be asked to submit architectural plans during the permit process. Generally, this information must meet exacting standards. Involving a knowledgeable roofing contractor may ensure a smooth outcome.
2. Review of permit application.
Once the governmental authority receives the permit, the review process commences. During this stage, the reviewing party may contact the homeowner or contractor for additional information or clarification.
3. Secure permit approval.
Assuming the permit meets all regulatory requirements, the agency will issue a permit with specific expectations regarding the fulfillment of the construction project. A project deadline will be established.
4. Fulfill roof replacement.
Once the permit for roof replacement has been issued, the contractor can begin the project. If replacing a residential roofing system, the contractor must provide the tear-off and installation equipment and materials to complete the project within the stated timeframe.
5. Obtain a roof inspection.
Once the contractor has completed the new roof, a final inspection is typically required to ensure all work meets the regulations established by the local building code. The governmental authority will then perform the roof inspection and issue an approval.
Why Should A Homeowner Hire A Licensed Roofer?
Retaining a licensed roofing contractor like S&S Roofing guarantees the homeowner peace of mind that the permit approval process will flow smoothly. An established roofer understands the ins and outs associated with local building codes and zoning regulations.
If you reside in the Pacific Northwest, trust S&S Roofing to provide expertise in this field. Contact us today to learn more about our roofing services or to schedule an appointment and receive a free roof quote.
