Before a single shingle is removed, your contractor must file for a building permit with your local municipality. While often viewed as a “hidden tax,” the permit process is the primary consumer protection mechanism ensuring your roof is installed to code.
This guide explains how permit fees are calculated and why working without one is a financial risk.
1. How Permit Fees Are Calculated
Permit costs vary wildly by city, but most building departments use one of two calculation models:
Model A: The Flat Fee
Some smaller towns charge a simple flat rate (e.g., $150.00) for any residential re-roofing project, regardless of size.
Model B: Valuation Based (Most Common)
Most cities calculate the fee based on the total value of the contract. This is the formula used in our local market reports.
$$ \text{Total Fee} = \text{Base Administrative Fee} + (\text{Percentage of Job Cost}) $$
Example: $75 Base + 1.5% of the contract value. On a $15,000 roof, the permit would cost $300.
2. What Does the Permit Pay For?
You are paying for the City Inspector’s time. A permitted roof requires two inspections:
- Mid-Roof Inspection (The “Nail Pattern”): In some hurricane zones (like Florida or Texas), inspectors check the nailing pattern of the underlayment before shingles are applied.
- Final Inspection: The inspector checks flashing, ventilation, and overall completion to ensure the home is watertight.
3. The Risks of “Unpermitted” Work
Some “Chuck in a Truck” contractors will offer a discount if you skip the permit. Never agree to this.
| Risk | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Stop Work Order | The city can halt your project mid-tear-off, leaving your roof exposed to rain until fines are paid (often double the original fee). |
| Insurance Denial | If an unpermitted roof fails during a storm, your homeowners insurance may deny the claim due to “illegal workmanship.” |
| Resale Issues | Home inspectors can flag unpermitted roofs during a sale, forcing you to pay for a retroactive permit and inspection before closing. |