Roof repair in Bartow, FL

Under Florida's building code, patching can cover no more than 25 percent of a roof or roof section within any 12-month period. Once repairs pass that limit, the whole roof or section has to be replaced or recovered. The exception applies only when the roof itself was built, repaired or replaced to the 2007 Florida Building Code or a later edition. For a Bartow roof in that category, current code reaches just the repaired area, and the City of Bartow cannot amend that exception by ordinance.

For a permit, ask the City of Bartow Building Department. State code lets the building official decide whether a small repair needs a permit. The department's menu lists a Re-Roof Inspection Affidavit, so confirm which paperwork applies to your job.

If your home sits in one of Bartow's three National Register historic districts, the city's Historic Architectural Review Board reviews proposed alterations to contributing property. Ask the city before changing roof materials or appearance.

• Stay off the roof. Look from the ground for missing, cracked or curled tabs and exposed felt.
• Look through the attic and the ceilings for visible leaks and wet insulation.
• Photograph everything before any cleanup or tarping.
• Tarp or dry out only what you can reach from inside or the ground.

For insurance, talk to your insurer or agent, not a roofer. Roofing contractors in Florida are barred by law from advising you on coverage or offering anything of value in return for an inspection. Within 1 year of the date of loss, your insurer must be notified of any new claim.