The Best Roofing Contractors in Tampa, FL, Compared

It depends on the roof's size, pitch, number of layers to remove, decking condition and the material you choose. In Tampa, architectural asphalt shingles rated for 130 mph are the most common replacement, with standing-seam metal as the step-up option. Get at least two itemized written estimates from the contractors on this page; a serious estimate lists the underlayment, flashing, ventilation and decking price per sheet, not just a lump sum.

In most of Hillsborough County a full replacement requires a building permit and at least one inspection; small repairs often do not. The contractor should pull the permit in their name. If a roofer asks you to pull it as the homeowner, treat that as a warning sign about their license or insurance.

Florida insurers are strict about roof age; many will not write or renew a policy on a shingle roof past 15 years. A new roof here is as much an insurance decision as a repair. The region's usual problems are hurricane-force wind, wind-driven rain, high humidity and algae streaking and hail from spring storms. Hurricane season runs June through November. Most reputable roofers are booked solid after a named storm, so schedule inspections in spring and get a written wind-mitigation report your insurer will accept.

Wind and hail claims are common here. Ask any contractor whether they will meet your adjuster on site and provide a line-item estimate in Xactimate format. Document everything with photos before any work starts, and never sign an assignment of benefits or a contract contingent on an insurance approval without reading it.

Ask for the certificate of insurance directly from the insurer, not a copy from the contractor, and confirm it lists both general liability and workers' compensation. Look the license up on the Florida contractor licensing board site, and check the local address matches what the board has on file.