How to write a roof replacement permit narrative
Re-roof permits are simple but reviewers still reject vague ones. The three questions your narrative must answer: tear-off or overlay, what’s going on (material, weight, fire rating), and what happens at flashings and ventilation.
What your narrative needs to include
- Tear-off or overlay (and how many existing layers)
- New roofing material with fire rating and manufacturer
- Underlayment type
- Sheathing inspection/replacement plan
- Flashing and ventilation work
- Roof pitch if material rules depend on it
Example: a complete roof replacement narrative
Project Description
This project involves complete tear-off and replacement of the existing single-layer composition shingle roof, approximately 24 squares on a 5:12 pitch gable roof. The new roof is Class A architectural composition shingles over new synthetic underlayment.
Scope of Work
- Tear off existing single layer of composition shingles and underlayment to sheathing; dispose legally
- Inspect sheathing and replace damaged panels as needed with matching plywood
- Install synthetic underlayment with ice and water shield at eaves and valleys where required
- Install new Class A architectural composition shingles per manufacturer instructions
- Replace all pipe jacks, valley flashing, and drip edge
- Maintain existing attic ventilation with new ridge vent
Materials & Methods
Class A architectural laminated composition shingles, synthetic underlayment, self-adhered ice and water membrane, galvanized flashings and drip edge, ridge vent.
Work Not Included
Structural framing repairs beyond sheathing replacement. Gutter replacement. Solar removal and reinstall (by others).
Contractor Statement
All roofing work will be performed per the currently adopted building code and manufacturer installation requirements for the specified assembly.
Mistakes that get roof replacement permits kicked back
- Not stating tear-off vs overlay
- No fire classification on the new material
- Silence on sheathing condition and replacement plan
- Forgetting ventilation, which some jurisdictions check on every re-roof
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