Building Codes
Building Codes | Storm Damage Restoration | Roofing | Tazewell
When a fierce East Tennessee storm rips through Tazewell, HEP’s licensed roofers move fast, pairing local building‐code expertise with decades of craftsmanship to protect your biggest investment. We start with a complimentary inspection, documenting every missing shingle, compromised flashing, and hidden leak so you have iron-clad evidence for insurance claims. From there our crew manages permits, materials, and scheduling, staying in constant contact so you know exactly what’s happening on your roof—and why each repair meets or exceeds Claiborne County regulations.
That code‐compliant precision is the backbone of our storm damage restoration service. Whether you need emergency tarping at midnight or a full tear-off and replacement, we install shingles, metal, or specialty roofing systems engineered to handle the next round of high winds and hail. The result is a durable, energy-efficient roof that looks great, boosts resale value, and gives you peace of mind long after the clouds roll out over Cumberland Gap.
FAQs
What building codes regulate storm-related roof repairs in Tazewell?
Tazewell follows the State of Tennessee’s adoption of the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) for one- and two-family dwellings and the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) for commercial structures, both of which include local amendments for wind, snow, and seismic conditions. These codes set minimum requirements for decking thickness, shingle fasteners, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and roof slope. When we restore a storm-damaged roof, every step—tear-off, deck inspection, material selection, and final nailing pattern—must meet those code sections so the roof can pass municipal inspection and qualify for manufacturer and insurance warranties.
Do I need a permit to repair or replace my roof after a storm in Tazewell?
Yes. Tazewell’s Building Inspection Department requires a roofing permit whenever more than one square (100 sq ft) of shingles is removed, when structural decking is replaced, or when any part of the roof assembly is altered. Our team pulls the permit on your behalf, provides the construction documents (scope of work, manufacturer specs, and wind-rating data) the inspector needs, and schedules both the in-progress and final inspections so you remain code compliant and avoid penalties.
How quickly should I schedule a roof inspection after storm damage?
You should arrange a professional inspection within 24–48 hours of a wind or hail event. Early documentation serves three purposes: (1) it helps you file an accurate insurance claim, (2) it reveals hidden structural issues—such as deck delamination or compromised trusses—before secondary water intrusion occurs, and (3) it lets us start the permit and code-compliance process before the 60-day filing window many insurers impose. Our Haag-certified inspectors use drone imagery and core sampling approved by local code officials to prepare a report accepted by both the building department and insurers.
What roofing materials satisfy Tazewell’s code requirements for wind and hail resistance?
For steep-slope roofs, the IRC requires ASTM D7158 Class F (110 mph) or better asphalt shingles; most homeowners opt for Class H (150 mph) architectural shingles for added resilience. Metal systems must meet UL 580 Class 90 uplift ratings. Underlayment must be ASTM D226 Type II or synthetic with a minimum 6-month UV exposure rating. For low-slope sections, TPO or PVC membranes must achieve a minimum ASTM D4434 60-mil thickness and be mechanically fastened or fully adhered per manufacturer’s ES-report. During your consultation we present code-compliant material packages and explain their warranty and insurance implications.
Will my insurance pay for code-required upgrades during storm damage restoration?
Most policies include either "Ordinance or Law" (O&L) coverage or an optional "Code Upgrade" endorsement that reimburses the additional cost of bringing the entire roof assembly up to current code—even if older sections were "grandfathered" in. We write a detailed Xactimate estimate that separates storm damage from code-mandated items (ice-and-water shield, drip edge, enhanced nailing, ridge ventilation, etc.). We then negotiate directly with your adjuster to ensure O&L coverage is applied so you are not out-of-pocket for required upgrades.
How does the final code inspection work and how does your company help?
After we complete the roof, we call the Tazewell Building Inspection Department for a final inspection. The inspector checks permit paperwork, verifies shingle packaging for wind rating, confirms nail spacing, examines flashing, and ensures ventilation meets net-free-area calculations. If the roof passes, you receive a signed Certificate of Completion, which insurers often require before releasing depreciation payments. We meet the inspector on site, address any questions in real time, and provide you with a digital copy of the approval for your records.