Can a General Contractor Do Roofing in Florida?
In Florida, general contractors have strict limits on what roofing work they can perform. State law defines their scope, and doing work outside it can lead to fines, license loss, and legal trouble. Below is a clear breakdown of what they can do, what they can’t, and the narrow exceptions that apply.
What Roofing Work Can a General Contractor Perform?
General contractors in Florida are allowed to install shingle roofing materials on new residential structures that they are actively building. They may also perform shingle repairs on those same buildings after construction, as long as it is under warranty and the work stays within their license scope.
They are licensed to oversee the roofing phase of their projects, ensure the installation meets the Florida Building Code, and coordinate related tasks such as underlayment placement and flashing installation. These allowances keep their work compliant while letting them manage the full build from start to finish.
What Roofing Work General Contractors Can’t Perform
General contractors in Florida are not allowed to install structural roofing elements such as framing or decking. They’re also not permitted to work with roofing materials beyond basic shingles. This means metal, tile, and flat roofing systems are outside their scope.
They also can’t perform reroofing or repairs on existing structures unless covered by a specific exemption, such as an emergency order (explained in the next section). Major projects like roof replacements or extensive repairs must be handled by licensed roofing contractors. Even minor non-emergency repairs on structures that the GC did not construct require a licensed roofer.
GCs may not present themselves as “roofing contractors” or take on roofing projects outside their license scope. Attempting unauthorized roofing work can lead to fines, license suspension or revocation, legal consequences, and voided warranties.
Special Circumstances for General Contractors
There are certain circumstances in which general contractors may be involved in roofing beyond new-construction shingles. Understanding these exceptions helps you know when a GC can legally be involved in roofing work on your home.
Subcontracting Roofing Work
General contractors in Florida must subcontract out to licensed roofing contractors to complete roofing tasks on their projects. This is the legal way a GC can be involved in roofing beyond new-structure shingle installations.
All roofing subcontractors must be properly licensed and carry insurance valid for the specific county or jurisdiction where the work takes place. This ensures the work meets Florida building codes, complies with Florida roofing laws, and maintains homeowner protections. Following these rules keeps projects compliant and minimizes legal or insurance risks for both the GC and the homeowner.
Emergency Exemptions
In some emergency situations, general contractors may perform minor roofing repairs if they’re granted special permission by the state. These permissions are temporary, county-specific, and often come with strict reporting requirements to ensure accountability.
During Hurricane Helene, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) issued Emergency Order 2024-08. This allowed certified or registered general, building, or residential contractors to perform roofing work for all roofing types on structures within their respective license scope.
Grandfathered Contractors
Certified general contractors who were licensed before 1973 are allowed to perform roofing work under broader rules. They may install roofs without the restrictions applied to certifications issued after 1973. These grandfathered contractors are rare, must maintain their certification, and this exemption does not apply to most current general contractors.
Licensing Requirements for Roofing Work in Florida
Only certified or registered roofing contractors can legally handle full roofing projects, including installations, replacements, and major repairs. All roofing contractors in Florida must hold a license issued by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). Certified contractors are licensed to work anywhere in the state, while registered contractors are licensed only within their local jurisdiction.
Qualifications and Experience
To qualify, both certified and registered roofing contractors must have a mix of education and hands-on experience totaling four years. They must pass exams on business practices, safety, and roofing trade knowledge. This ensures they will complete work that meets the Florida Building Code and withstands the state’s high winds and hurricane conditions.
Why Licensing Matters
Licensed roofing contractors follow strict material, installation, and safety standards, especially in high-velocity hurricane zones. They carry proper insurance, know local permitting rules, and meet bonding requirements that safeguard homeowners.
These safeguards are built into the licensing process. Only licensed roofers are legally allowed to perform roofing work, and they are trained to meet these safety and code requirements. Outside of narrow emergency or grandfathered exemptions, hiring a GC for roofing work in Florida is a legal violation.
Florida Homeowners Should Hire a Roofing Pro
Licensed roofing contractors are trained in roofing systems and know how to handle Florida’s unique climate. They pull the proper permits and ensure inspections are completed, keeping your homeowner’s insurance valid.
They carry roofing-specific insurance and bonding. Licensed roofing contractors understand building codes, hurricane tie-downs, and storm-resistant installation methods. Work done without a licensed roofing professional often has no warranties, leaving homeowners unprotected if problems arise.
Hiring an unlicensed roofing contractor could lead to code violations that delay home closings or complicate homeowners’ insurance claims. Furthermore, if someone is injured during the work, you may be held liable. Hiring a licensed roofer protects your home, your investment, and gives you peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Roofing Professional
In Florida, roofing work is strictly regulated to protect homeowners and ensure safety. General contractors can only install and repair shingles on new structures they are building. All other roofing projects must be handled by licensed roofing contractors.
Hiring a licensed roofing contractor ensures your roof meets building codes and will withstand Florida’s unique climate challenges. It also protects your investment, maintains homeowner’s insurance coverage, and provides peace of mind that a general contractor cannot guarantee.
