What is the new roof law in Florida?

As of 2025, several important laws affect roofing in Florida:

• Insurers may non-renew policies if your roof is 15+ years old, unless a certified inspection shows at least 5 years of remaining life.
  
• The old “25% damage” rule has been softened: for roofs built or replaced after March 2009, only the damaged sections must be repaired—full replacement is no longer mandatory unless the roof is older.
  
• Wind mitigation upgrades, such as hurricane straps and secondary water barriers, are now required for reroofing projects in line with wind-resistance mandates.
  
• Under HB 715, roofing contractors may now strengthen roof-to-wall connections. Homeowners gain a 10-day cancellation window for contracts signed within 180 days of a state-of-emergency declaration, and contracts must include a conspicuous insurance coverage notice.

Key Regulations Impacting Homeowners (2025 Updates)

1. 15-Year Roof Age Rule (Florida Statute 627.7011)

Insurers are now permitted to offer non-renewal homeowners’ insurance policies if the roof is 15 years or older, even if it shows no visible damage. To maintain coverage, homeowners can submit a certified inspection (from an authorized inspector) that confirms the roof has at least 5 years of remaining life.

2. Modified “25% Rule” (SB 4-D / Roof Damage Threshold)

Traditionally, Florida law required a full roof replacement if over 25% of its surface was damaged within 12 months. However, the rule has been relaxed for roofs built or replaced after March 1, 2009, under the 2007 or newer Florida Building Code: now, only the damaged sections require repair, provided the remainder of the roof meets current code. Older roofs (pre‑2009) still trigger full replacement when damage exceeds the 25% level. 

3. Windstorm Mitigation Upgrades (Florida Statute 553.844)

During reroofing, homeowners must comply with new wind-resistance requirements, including the mandated installation of:

• Roof-to-wall connections (like hurricane straps),
  
• Secondary water barriers, and
  
• Gable-end bracing when applicable.
  These features are proven to reduce storm damage and are generally capped at 15% additional cost of the reroofing job.
  

4. House Bill 715 (HB 715) — Consumer Protections in Emergency Situations

Signed in May 2025, this law introduces key consumer safeguards and contractor obligations:

• Expanded contractor scope: Licensed roofing contractors may now legally perform roof-to-wall connection enhancements (e.g., hurricane straps), provided such work complies with the Florida Building Code or higher engineering standards.
  
• Cancellation rights: Homeowners can cancel roofing contracts without penalty if the contract is signed within 180 days of a declared state of emergency, provided cancellation occurs within 10 days of signing or before work begins — whichever occurs first.
  
• Insurance notice requirement: Contracts must include a bold, 14-point font notice advising homeowners to confirm coverage with their insurance provider before signing, especially when insurance claims are involved.