Pennsylvania roofing: permits, codes and approvals

Pennsylvania UCC local enforcement, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh EZ re-roof permits, HICPA home improvement contractor registration and contract rules, and Mechanics' Lien Law deadlines.

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1 · Product approvals

Product approvals

Pennsylvania has no state roofing product approval or listing system. Code officials rely on the code's labeling requirements and evaluation reports such as ICC-ES, plus manufacturer installation instructions.

Code evaluation reports (ICC-ES, UL, IAPMO): 48 roofing reports

2 · Permit forms

City re-roof permits

The Uniform Construction Code is enforced by municipalities (over 90% enforce it locally), and each sets its own permit process. Check the local code office before a re-roof.

PhiladelphiaRe-roofs can use L&I's EZ Re-Roofing permit (no plans) if under 10% of sheathing is replaced, there's no structural or load change, no new roof penetrations and the building isn't historic; a licensed contractor certifies the work.PittsburghResidential re-roofs qualify for an EZ permit (with virtual inspection) when replacing covering and up to 10% of sheathing; structural, slope or opening changes need a full application. Work by the homeowner, a City-licensed contractor or a PA-registered HIC.ErieNo permit for residential roof coverings such as shingles; a permit is required for structural repairs or changes to the roof.

3 · Code rules

Code rules

The statewide Uniform Construction Code adopted the 2018 I-Code series (including the IRC) effective February 14, 2022. A triennial update took effect January 1, 2026; L&I's page does not name the editions it adopts. Official adoption page ↗

Tear-off triggers (Philadelphia standard)Remove all layers first if the roof is water-damaged or deteriorated, is wood shake, slate, clay, cement or asbestos-cement tile, or already has two or more coverings.Shingle wind rating and drip edge (Philadelphia standard)Asphalt shingles must meet ASTM D7158 class D, G or H or ASTM D3161 class A, D or F; drip edge at eaves and gables extends 1/4" below sheathing and 2" onto the roof, fastened 12" o.c.Municipal amendmentsMunicipalities may adopt UCC amendments by ordinance; L&I keeps a list of municipal code change ordinances.

5 · License and insurance

License and insurance

Pennsylvania has no state roofing license. Home improvement contractors must register with the Attorney General under HICPA; Philadelphia and Pittsburgh also license contractors.

HICPA registration (Attorney General)Required unless your home improvement work totaled under $5,000 in the prior tax year. Fee $50; renew every two years.Liability insurance minimumsRegistrants must carry at least $50,000 for personal injury and $50,000 for property damage, and state the current coverage in each contract.Attorney General registration lookupHomeowners are told to check the Registered Contractors section of the AG website; unregistered contractors can be reported to the hotline at 1-888-520-6680. Registration doesn't certify quality or honesty.City contractor licensesPhiladelphia's EZ re-roof permit requires a licensed contractor to certify the work; Pittsburgh allows a City-licensed contractor or a PA-registered HIC.

6 · Lien and contract forms

Lien and contract rules

HICPA sets contract, cancellation and deposit rules for home improvement jobs over $500. A prime contractor files a mechanics' lien within 6 months of finishing; subs must give 30 days' notice first.

Written contract contents (HICPA Sec. 7)Signed written contract with your registration number, address (no P.O. box alone), start and completion dates, work and materials, total price, deposit, known subcontractors, insurance amount, the AG toll-free number and rescission notice.3-business-day right to rescindThe owner may rescind within three business days of signing the home improvement contract.Deposit cap (HICPA Sec. 9)On contracts over $5,000, no deposit above one-third of the price plus the cost of special-order materials listed in the contract. No payment may be taken before the contract is signed.Lien filing deadline (Mechanics' Lien Law Sec. 502)File the claim with the prothonotary within 6 months after completing your work, serve notice of filing on the owner within 1 month, and file the affidavit of service within 20 days of service.Subcontractor notice and residential limitSubs must give the owner written notice of intent to file at least 30 days before filing. Subs have no lien on an owner-occupied one- or two-unit home or townhouse once the owner has paid the contractor in full.Lien waivers on residential jobsOn residential property, contractors and subs can waive lien rights by a written instrument they sign.

Install instructions by brand: all makers →

Public records, last checked Oct 23, 2026. Always verify on the official source before you permit.