Building Codes
Building Codes | Storm Damage Restoration | Roofing | Philadelphia
When high winds tear at shingles or hail leaves pockmarks across Philly row-home roofs, HEP moves quickly—first to secure your property, then to guide you through every step of permitting and code compliance. Our local crews stay updated on the ever-evolving Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code, so we can fast-track inspections, meet material specifications, and keep insurance carriers satisfied. The result is seamless storm damage restoration that never cuts corners and always meets city requirements.
From architectural asphalt shingles in Fishtown to historic slate in Chestnut Hill, we document all damage with drone imagery, file the paperwork, and coordinate directly with your adjuster. You get transparent timelines, 24/7 site monitoring, and a workmanship warranty backed by a dedicated neighborhood manager.
Choose HEP and get a partner who understands the difference between “good as new” and “better than before.” Your roof will be rebuilt to stand up to the next storm—and to pass every city inspection—so you can get back to enjoying the skyline instead of worrying about it.
FAQs
What building codes govern roof repairs or replacement after storm damage in Philadelphia?
Roof work in Philadelphia must comply with Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code (The Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code), which incorporates the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) and 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) with local amendments. These codes dictate structural load requirements, decking and fastener specifications, wind-uplift ratings, fire classifications, ice-barrier installation, flashing details, and ventilation. Any storm-damage restoration must bring the entire affected roof section up to the current adopted code—not just replace the visibly damaged components.
Do I need a permit to repair or replace a storm-damaged roof in Philadelphia?
Yes. The Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) requires a Building Permit for any roof replacement and for repairs that exceed 10% of the total roof area or involve structural elements (rafters, trusses, deck). Emergency repairs to stop active leaks can be done immediately, but a permit application must be filed within three business days. Homeowners may pull a permit for an owner-occupied one- or two-family dwelling; all other projects must be permitted by a PA-licensed contractor with an active Philadelphia Contractor License and proof of insurance.
Are temporary protective measures like tarping regulated, and how quickly should they be installed?
Philadelphia does not require a permit for temporary measures such as tarps, shrink-wrap, or emergency sheathing provided they do not remain in place more than 60 days. However, the Property Maintenance Code obligates owners to keep buildings weathertight at all times. Industry best practice—and what most insurers expect—is to install protective coverings within 24–48 hours after the damaging event to prevent further interior or structural deterioration.
What materials or installation methods are required or prohibited by local roofing codes after a storm?
Key code-driven requirements include: • Wind-resistant shingles: ASTM D7158, Class F (110 mph) or better for steep-slope roofs. • Ice-barrier membrane: A self-adhered underlayment (minimum 24 in. inside exterior wall line) is required at eaves on roofs with a history of ice dams. • Minimum roof slope: 2 in-12 for asphalt shingles; lower slopes must use code-approved low-slope systems (TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen, etc.) • Fire rating: Class A roof covering required when buildings are within 5 ft of a property line. • Prohibited practices: Installing new shingles over existing storm-damaged layers, using staples instead of nails, and re-using bent metal flashing are all disallowed under current code.
How is the completed storm-damage roof restoration inspected, and what if it fails?
Upon permit issuance, L&I schedules at least one on-site inspection—often a sheathing/fastener inspection before covering and a final inspection after completion. The contractor must notify L&I when the project reaches each inspection stage. If deficiencies are found (e.g., improper fastener spacing, inadequate flashing), the inspector issues a Notice of Failure. Work must be corrected and a re-inspection requested within 30 days. If corrections are not made, penalties can include daily fines and a Stop-Work Order.
Can I start an insurance claim before obtaining permits, and do building codes affect my payout?
You may open an insurance claim immediately after the storm; insurers encourage prompt reporting. While you can collect estimates before securing a permit, your final scope of work—and the amount the insurer will pay—must reflect current code requirements (often called "Ordinance or Law" coverage). If your policy includes this endorsement, the carrier will typically cover the additional cost of code-mandated upgrades such as enhanced underlayment or thicker decking. Submitting the approved permit and any code citations to your adjuster helps ensure full reimbursement.