On Behalf Of Wolfe Law Tampa
Jan 13, 2026
Florida roofing contractors need to be aware of the new requirements they face under a law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis that took effect last May. Homeowners and insurance providers should also know about the law.
The new law includes changes that affect contracts for roofing work. It also provides an updated and expanded definition of “roofing contractor.”
A roofing contractor now officially includes any professional who engages in “the evaluation and enhancement of roof-to-wall connections for structures with wood roof decking. This expanded definition allows roofing contractors to make necessary structural renovations to help protect roofs from severe weather events and natural disasters.
Homeowners’ right to cancel a roofing contract
Homeowners can now cancel a contract within 10 days after their signing date or the project’s official start date (whichever is first) without paying a penalty. They can also cancel without penalty within 180 days after a state of emergency for their area was declared.
The purpose of this change is to help ensure that homeowners have adequate time to thoroughly review their insurance coverage before they’re financially committed to a roofing project – particularly if the work is required after damage caused by storms, hurricanes and other seriously damaging events.
The law also mandates that notification of these rights to cancel a contract without penalty is included in all contracts drafted during a declared state of emergency within the contract in a clearly readable size print near the signature line.
Further, all contracts must include language about the homeowner’s right to contact their insurance company “to verify coverage for the proposed roofing work, including any claims, deductibles, and policy terms, before signing this contract.” This is to help ensure that people are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities for seeking insurance reimbursement, if applicable to the work.
The potential benefits to roofing contractors
As noted, these changes are largely intended to protect Florida homeowners – particularly when they’re dealing with costly emergency repairs. However, they can also help protect roofing contractors from having to deal with legal claims by homeowners who made hasty or uninformed decisions that cost them money and for which they might not be able to pay.
It’s always smart to have experienced legal guidance when drafting, negotiating and enforcing contracts. With the requirements of this new law, it’s more important than ever.
