Roofing contractors in Florida will need to tweak their contracts to reflect a new law that defines when customers can cancel roofing contracts.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed HB 715 into law on Tuesday, which addresses when customers can cancel contracts without penalty, expands the state’s definition of a “roofing contractor” and requires new insurance language for contracts. The law took effect immediately.

“Together, these measures protect consumers and reward contractors that invest in wind mitigation techniques and meticulous documentation, and they are likely to serve as a model for other hurricane-prone coastal states,” said Trent Cotney, partner at Adams and Reese, LLP.

He said the law creates clearer boundaries on when residential property owners can cancel a contract to repair or replace a roof without penalty. Previously, homeowners had a 10-day window to cancel roofing contracts.

That 10-day window now applies only if the contract is executed within 180 days of a declared state of emergency, and the property is located in the area covered by the declaration.

Contractors must include specific language in their contracts made within 180 days of a declared state of emergency to inform homeowners of this cancellation policy.

Expansion of Roofing Work

In addition to the 10-day cancellation amendment, the law expands the definition of a “roofing contractor” to broaden the scope of work a licensed roofing contractor can perform. This includes the installation of skylights and the repair or replacement of wood roof sheathing or fascia.

Of note is the evaluation and enhancement of roof-to-wall connections for structures with wood roof decking. The law states these connections, also known as “hurricane straps,” are done in conjunction with a roof covering replacement or repair.

Section 706 of the Florida Building Code-Existing Building describes the roof-to-wall connections.

“House Bill 715 moves Florida’s roofing industry forward by expressly allowing licensed roofing contractors to evaluate and strengthen roof-to-wall connections under certain circumstances,” Cotney said.

New Insurance Contract Language

Over the past few years, Florida has cracked down on the roofing industry to curb skyrocketing insurance rates. Roofing contracts will need to be amended regarding insurance-based jobs, notes Cotney.

“[HB 715] obliges contractors to insert a prominent notice in every residential roofing agreement that urges owners to confirm deductibles, coverage, and policy limits with their insurer before they sign,” he said.

The language is as follows:

"If the proposed work is related to an insurance claim, you, the residential property owner, should contact your insurance company to verify coverage for the proposed roofing work, including any claims, deductibles, and policy terms, before signing this contract. By signing this contract, you acknowledge that you have been advised to contact your insurance provider regarding coverage and reimbursement of the proposed work."