When planning a roofing project, a lot of homeowners find themselves asking, “Are roofing contractors responsible for obtaining permits for the job?” This is an important question and one that carries a fair amount of weight.
As a homeowner, you want to ensure that all work carried out on your property complies with local and state regulations. So, let’s cut through the confusion and provide you with some plain-English answers to this common query.
The short answer to the question is: Yes, typically, it’s the roofing contractor’s responsibility to secure all relevant permits for the job. Still, it’s crucial to understand and discuss this explicitly with your roofing contractor to avoid any assumptions or miscommunications.
How long does it typically take to obtain a roofing permit in Colorado?
Generally, in Colorado, the permit application process typically takes 10-14 business days, depending on the complexity of the job and the local permitting office’s workload. This timeline accounts for the submission of the application, review, and finally the issuance of the permit.
Once the permit is issued, work can begin immediately. Just remember, unforeseen conditions such as weather or additional repair needs might extend the projected timeline of your roofing project.
This is where hiring an experienced roofing contractor such as Advocate Construction becomes essential. We work diligently to streamline the process, ensuring that your project stays on schedule and adheres to all local codes and regulations.
What happens if a roofing contractor fails to obtain the necessary permits?
If a roofing contractor goes ahead with a job without obtaining the necessary permits, it could lead to some very unpleasant surprises down the line. Let’s unravel the potential consequences.
1. Job Interruption and Delays
Foremost, not having the required permits can lead to a work stoppage. Code enforcement officials have the power to put a halt to the project until the proper permits are in place. Such interruption inevitably leads to painful delays, throwing off the planned project timeline.
2. Liability Issues
The contractor, and potentially the homeowner, could also face significant liability issues. Without the necessary permits, there is no guarantee that the work meets local and state safety codes. If an accident were to occur as a result, the party responsible for the job would be liable for any resulting damages or injuries.
3. Fines and Penalties
Failing to obtain the necessary permits might also result in fines and penalties. Colorado communities take the permit process seriously. If a contractor violates this process, then the local authority can issue heavy fines that could make the project much more expensive than initially anticipated.
4. Compromised Insurance Coverage
Lastly, the absence of the appropriate permits can compromise your home insurance cover. If unpermitted work is completed and later causes a problem, an insurance company may decline any related insurance claims. That’s certainly a risk you don’t want to take on.
As you can see, the consequences of a contractor failing to obtain the necessary permits are severe and far-reaching. To avoid these uncomfortable situations, always ensure that your roofing contractor has the requisite permits before they start work on your roof.
Here at Advocate Construction, we have got your back. Serving across the broad canvas of Colorado Front Range Communities. So, when you entrust your roof installation services to us, rest assured we handle everything – right down to the legal fine print!