Roof repair in El Portal, FL

Patching is limited by the code to 25 percent of a roof or roof section across any 12-month period. Once repairs exceed that limit, you must replace or recover the entire roof or section. The median El Portal home was built in 1953, so many roofs here have likely been redone since, and some more than once.

One exception helps. Only the repaired portion has to meet current code when your existing roof was built, repaired or replaced to the 2007 Florida Building Code or a later edition. That depends on the roof itself, not on the age of the house. A tear-off to the deck is required when the old roof is water soaked or already has two or more coverings.

In the High Velocity Hurricane Zone, repairs must use products with a product approval, and the work may not create additional ponding water. Flat or low-slope sections near the back of an older house are where that rule bites.

In the High Velocity Hurricane Zone, a permit is required for work on any roofing component, including repair and maintenance. Completing the application falls to a contractor who holds a license. The Village of El Portal Code Enforcement & Building Department handles roof permits, so confirm requirements with that office before work starts.

• Keep off any roof that is wet or damaged, and stay away from downed lines.
• Photograph the damage from the ground and from inside the attic.
• Keep your receipts, and only cover openings when you can do so from a safe position.
• Report a loss to your insurer in writing. Notice is barred after 1 year from the date of loss.

For anything about coverage or a claim, talk to your insurer or agent. State law bars roofing contractors from advising on policy coverage or offering anything of value for an inspection.