After every major storm in Florida, neighborhoods fill with contractors knocking on doors, offering “quick inspections” or “fast fixes” for damaged roofs. While some are reputable, others rely on high-pressure tactics and vague agreements. The result? Homeowners who later discover hidden fees, incomplete work, or even lawsuits with their insurance company.
To address these issues, lawmakers passed HB 715 in 2025, introducing new contract requirements for roofing work. This law is meant to protect consumers, but it only works if homeowners understand what it covers and how to use it. Here’s a comprehensive look at what HB 715 changes, what red flags to avoid, and how to protect your home and wallet the next time you sign a roofing contract.
Why HB 715 Was Passed
Florida has long been a hotbed for roofing disputes, especially following hurricanes. Contractors often move into storm-affected neighborhoods, sign contracts quickly, and sometimes leave homeowners with poor workmanship, inflated costs, or unresolved claims.
State legislators recognized the need for more transparency and accountability in roofing contracts, especially in emergency situations. HB 715 was written to:
- Reduce post-storm fraud and misrepresentation.
- Ensure homeowners understand their rights to cancel or modify contracts.
- Standardize disclosures, so contracts include critical information upfront.
- Prevent disputes between contractors, insurers, and homeowners.
The Key Changes in Roofing Contracts Under HB 715
Cancellation Rights You Didn’t Have Before
- Homeowners now have a specific cancellation period, even if they signed during a declared emergency.
- This helps protect families from making decisions under pressure and allows time to compare quotes or read fine print.
Mandatory Disclosures
- Contracts must clearly outline scope of work, costs, materials, timelines, and warranties.
- Any connection to insurance claims or financing must also be spelled out.
Emergency Clauses
- If a contract is signed shortly after a storm or during a declared state of emergency, it must include an emergency disclosure clause explaining your rights and risks.
Documentation in Writing
This protects homeowners from disputes over “what was said” versus what was legally agreed upon.
Verbal promises no longer cut it. Every change order, warranty detail, or payment adjustment must be in writing.
Common Scenarios Where HB 715 Protects Homeowners
High-Pressure Post-Storm Sales
A contractor urges you to sign within hours of a hurricane. Thanks to HB 715, you now have a defined window to cancel if you later realize the contract isn’t right.
Vague Estimates
If a contractor gives you a price without explaining the materials or warranty, HB 715 requires that detail to be included in writing before you commit.
Verbal Promises vs. Written Agreements
A roofer says they’ll include upgraded shingles at no cost. Under HB 715, if it’s not in writing, it’s not enforceable, so the law forces both sides to document every change.
Insurance Conflicts
If a contractor claims they’ll “handle” your insurance claim, HB 715 requires that relationship to be disclosed in the contract so you’re not blind sided later.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Even with HB 715 in place, bad actors may still try to cut corners. Keep an eye out for:
- Pressure to sign immediately after a storm, often paired with scare tactics.
- Large upfront deposits demanded in cash.
- Missing license numbers or refusal to show proof of insurance.
- Incomplete contracts without clear scope, warranty, or cancellation terms.
If you spot these signs, step back and reconsider before signing.
Quick Contract Checklist (HB 715 Edition)
Before signing a roofing contract in Florida, make sure it includes these five essentials:
- Cancellation Period Clearly Stated: You have the right to cancel within the legal timeframe, even during an emergency.
- Full Scope of Work: Materials, fasteners, underlayment, warranties, and project timeline must be listed.
- Emergency Disclosure Clause: If signed after a storm, the contract must explain your rights and risks.
- Written Change Orders: Any adjustments to price, materials, or schedule must be documented.
- Contractor’s License & Insurance Info: Contracts must display the roofer’s license number, proof of insurance, and business contact details.
Keep this checklist handy, it could save you from fines, disputes, or unfinished work.
How to Protect Yourself Beyond HB 715
- Compare Multiple Contracts: Don’t rush into the first offer you receive. Comparing contracts helps you spot hidden fees, vague scopes, or unreasonable terms.
- Save Documentation: Keep copies of estimates, signed contracts, permits, and inspection reports. These can help if insurance issues arise or if you sell your home later.
- Verify Licensing & History: Check the contractor’s record with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) or your county’s building division. Reputable companies have clean histories and positive inspection results.
- Demand a Written Timeline: Every roofing contract should state expected start and finish dates. This protects you if a contractor delays work without good reason.
How Florida Roof Advisors Helps Homeowners
With HB 715 in effect, choosing a contractor who already follows best practices is the easiest way to stay compliant. That’s where Florida Roof Advisors stands out:
- Proven Code Compliance: Their experienced crews work directly with inspectors and ensure all projects meet Florida Building Code standards.
- Free Inspections & Estimates: Transparent, documented evaluations before any work begins.
- Clear, Compliant Contracts: Their agreements already align with HB 715 requirements, reducing the risk of disputes.
- Roof Replacement & Repair with Written Scope: Every job includes a detailed scope, materials list, and timeline, so you know exactly what to expect.
By working with a trusted, local contractor, you avoid the stress of vague contracts or shady practices. Florida’s HB 715 represents a big step forward in protecting homeowners from post-storm scams and contractor disputes. But laws alone can’t guarantee a smooth project. The responsibility still lies with homeowners to read contracts carefully, ask the right questions, and partner with reputable companies.
When you choose Florida Roof Advisors, you not only gain the protection of HB 715, you also gain a team committed to transparency, quality, and professionalism from the first inspection to the final shingle.