Building Codes
Building Codes | Storm Damage Restoration | Roofing | Sweetwater
Sweetwater’s sudden downpours and high-velocity winds can leave even the toughest roofs battered, but HEP is ready to turn the chaos into calm. Our team knows every line of the local building code, so your repairs aren’t just quick—they’re 100 % compliant from decking to final shingle. From emergency tarping and structural assessments to helping you navigate insurance claims, we streamline storm damage restoration while protecting your home’s long-term value.
We use industry-leading materials, drones for precision inspections, and photo-documented progress reports, giving you total transparency at every step. Most jobs are completed in a single day, and every roof is backed by a transferable workmanship warranty. When the next storm rolls across the Tennessee Valley, you’ll rest easy knowing HEP has already fortified your home against whatever the skies deliver.
FAQs
What permit do I need to repair or replace a storm-damaged roof in Sweetwater?
Sweetwater’s Building & Inspections Department classifies any roof repair that involves more than 100 sq ft of material—or any full replacement—as “re-roofing” work. A roofing permit is therefore required before permanent repairs begin. If structural elements such as rafters or trusses were cracked by wind or falling limbs, you will also need a standard building permit for structural work. Your licensed roofing contractor typically applies for the permit online or over the counter, submits a scope-of-work sketch, manufacturer data sheets, and pays a modest fee based on roof area. Permit approval normally takes 1–2 business days.
Are there local code requirements for wind and hail resistance on a new roof?
Yes. Sweetwater adopts the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) with local amendments that raise roof-covering performance. Shingle, metal, or tile systems must carry a 115 mph wind-uplift rating (ASCE 7-16, Exposure C) and be installed using the high-wind nailing pattern printed on the package (usually 6 nails per shingle). Because Nolan County sits in a Severe Hail region, Sweetwater strongly encourages— and many insurers now require—Class 4 impact-resistant shingles or equivalent metal panels. All valley metal must be at least 26-gauge, and edges need drip flashing that extends ¼" into the gutter.
Can I install new shingles over the existing ones after a hailstorm?
Generally no. While the IRC allows a single overlay under limited circumstances (no more than two total layers), Sweetwater prohibits re-covering when the existing roof was compromised by hail, wind, or water intrusion. The damaged shingles must be removed so the inspector can verify that the decking and fasteners are still sound. A full tear-off also lets the contractor add required underlayment and replace any warped sheathing, ensuring the new roof meets both code and manufacturer warranty rules.
What inspections will the city perform during storm-damage roof restoration?
Three site inspections are standard: 1. Sheathing/structural inspection – After the old roof is removed and any decking repairs are made, but before underlayment is installed. 2. Dry-in inspection – After the ice- & water-shield (or equivalent underlayment) and all flashing are in place. 3. Final roof inspection – Once shingles or panels, vents, and edge metal are fully installed. The permit holder must schedule each inspection 24 hours in advance. A green tag is left if you pass; a red tag lists corrections and may trigger a re-inspection fee.
How soon do I have to start repairs, and can I tarp the roof without a permit?
Sweetwater recognizes emergency mitigation. You may install a temporary tarp or shrink-wrap without a permit for up to 30 days to prevent further water damage. Permanent repairs, however, must be permitted before work begins. While the city does not impose a strict deadline, most insurance policies require you to mitigate damage within 14 days of the storm and complete repairs within 180 days of claim approval. Filing for the roofing permit early keeps you compliant with both code and insurer timelines.
Who is responsible for making sure the roof complies with code—the homeowner or the contractor?
Both parties share responsibility. The homeowner is the property owner of record and will be cited if unpermitted work is discovered. The licensed roofing contractor, however, must pull the permit, follow all code provisions, and arrange inspections. Reputable contractors provide you with a copy of the permit card, their state registration, and insurance certificates. Before signing a contract, verify your roofer is an NRCA or RCAT member and ask for the permit number to protect yourself from fines and future compliance issues.