Florida’s Roofing Crisis and the Call for Rule Changes: A photo of the destruction from Hurricane Milton shows a residential complex in Bradenton, Florida, with its roof section, including rafters and joists, ripped off. Experts say this near – catastrophic failure, leading to large insurance claims, was due to insufficient roof – to – wall connections, likely because the structure predated more recent building code requirements.
The Dilemma in Installation and the Proposed Solution: Mike Silvers of the Florida Roofing & Sheetmetal Contractors Association (FRSA) explains that finding crews to install connectors like steel hurricane straps and clips is tough. Florida’s statutes, building codes, and contractor licensing rules restrict roof contractors from this work as it’s considered structural work for building contractors. Few roof companies want to disrupt roof jobs for a structural contractor, and most building contractors aren’t interested in getting involved in roof replacements. The FRSA and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Inc. (InterNACHI) are urging Florida to relax the rules to let roofing contractors install or upgrade these tie – down connectors. The Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board or legislation could make the change.
Impact on Insurance Costs and Industry Challenges: Allowing more contractors to do hurricane – hardening work could reduce property insurance costs in Florida. When roofers aren’t licensed for the work, some property owners skip vital tie – downs, leading to costly claims. InterNACHI recommends two hours of continuing education for roof contractors. The demand for restoration and wind – mitigation work has risen after multiple hurricanes. The My Safe Florida Home program, which offers grants for home fortification in exchange for premium discounts, has been popular but ran out of its $200 million allocation. There are concerns about unlicensed roofers installing straps and clips, which can complicate premium discounts and home sales. Despite past issues between insurers and roof contractors, many in the industry believe more home fortification is crucial. The FRSA has consulted with the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, which sees value in having more people install wind connections. The shortage of construction workers could worsen with potential immigration policies, and insurance claims from recent storms continue to grow.
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