Philadelphia, PA · Updated
Philadelphia roofing: Can I DIY or hire a pro?
In Philadelphia, you can choose to DIY roofing or hire a licensed contractor for your one- or two-family home.
Philadelphia homeowners pay nothing to use it. One pro, introduced by name first.
A permit may be needed if your work involves structural changes or affects shared property, with specific requirements outlined by Philadelphia building codes.
Historic buildings and roofing options in Philadelphia
Older homes in Philadelphia may require different roofing approaches than newer ones, especially when it comes to materials and re-roofing standards. Newer homes often use asphalt shingles, while historic homes might have slate or wood shakes that need special handling.
Philadelphia’s re-roofing rules also require that flashings be rebuilt according to manufacturer instructions, and metal flashings must be primed before applying bituminous materials (City of Philadelphia L&I - EZ Permit Standard: Re-Roofing (PB_012_F, rev 7/26, IRC/IBC 2021)). These requirements ensure that both older and newer homes meet local safety and durability standards for roof coverings.
What changes the price in Philadelphia
Rules and local conditions that change this job's steps, choices or cost, each sourced.
| Local rule or condition | What it changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia L&I offers an EZ permit (no plans submitted) for installing new roof coverings on existing roofs, provided the work meets its Re-Roofing standard; deviations from the standard can lead to permit revocation | Philadelphia L&I offers an EZ permit for re-roofing if the work meets its Re-Roofing standard, avoiding full plan submission (source). | City of Philadelphia L&I - EZ Permit Standard: Re-Roofing (PB_012_F, rev 7/26, IRC/IBC 2021) |
| The Philadelphia building permit filing fee is $25 for one- or two-family dwellings and $100 for other occupancies, plus a $3 city and $4.50 state surcharge per permit | The building permit filing fee is $25 for one- or two-family dwellings, plus $3 city and $4.50 state surcharge per permit (source). | City of Philadelphia - Get a Building Permit |
Illustrative example based on the public data cited on this page (October 2026), not a quote — your contractor's written contract sets the price.
Roofing costs in Philadelphia with party wall considerations
Roofing costs in Philadelphia can be higher due to party wall considerations and older building materials, affecting material choices and permitting needs.
Roofing costs in Philadelphia can be higher due to party wall considerations, especially when shared walls are involved. Older neighborhoods with more historic buildings may require additional permits or compliance steps, which can increase costs because of the need for coordination with neighbors and potential inspections to ensure compliance with local building standards.
Philadelphia’s re-roofing rules also limit the use of certain materials on shallow slopes. This affects material choices for homeowners in older neighborhoods with lower-pitched roofs, potentially increasing costs if upgrades are required to meet current standards.
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Permitting and inspections for roof work in Philadelphia
Permitting and inspections for roof work in Philadelphia depend on the type of re-roofing, with specific rules for EZ permits and standard permits.
Related for Philadelphia homeowners: Roof Replacement FAQ.
In Philadelphia, older homes with existing roofs may qualify for an EZ re-roofing permit if they meet the city's Re-Roofing standard, which allows installation of new roof coverings without submitting detailed plans (City of Philadelphia L&I - EZ Permit Standard: Re-Roofing (PB_012_F, rev 7/26, IRC/IBC 2021)).
For those applying for an EZ re-roofing permit in Philadelphia, submitting the manufacturer’s full installation instructions is mandatory when filing the application. Permit fees vary depending on the type of permit, though owner-occupied one-family dwellings in Philadelphia have free extensions and reinstatements starting October 1, 2026 (L&I Summary of Construction Permit Fees (effective Oct 1, 2026; Rev 7.2026)).
Permit rules from City of Philadelphia L&I - EZ Permit Standard: Re-Roofing (PB_012_F, rev 7/26, IRC/IBC 2021). Rules change — confirm with the Philadelphia building/permit office before you start.
When a pro may not be needed
If the work involves structural changes, a licensed contractor should handle it to comply with local building codes.
What a fair quote spells out
- Permit details, including who applies and any associated fees
- Insurance information and contractor registration number provided (PA Senate - The Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (explainer))
- Schedule for work, including dates and expected completion times
Next steps for your roofing project in Philadelphia
- Contact preservation@phila.gov early if your home is on the Historic Register (City of Philadelphia L&I - EZ Permit Standard: Re-Roofing (PB_012_F, rev 7/26, IRC/IBC 2021))
Is the quote complete?
Tick each item the written quote already covers, then ask about anything left unticked.
Common questions
What license should a local pro in Philadelphia hold?
To verify a PA Home Improvement Contractor, check the Attorney General's database or call 1-888-520-6680 (Find a licensed contractor and contractor information (City of Philadelphia)).
Sources for this page (5)
- City of Philadelphia L&I - EZ Permit Standard: Re-Roofing (PB_012_F, rev 7/26, IRC/IBC 2021)
- source
- L&I Summary of Construction Permit Fees (effective Oct 1, 2026; Rev 7.2026)
- PA Senate - The Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (explainer)
- Find a licensed contractor and contractor information (City of Philadelphia)
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Before they contact you, we give you the pro's name. Ask them for their license number and check it yourself — look it up at hicsearch.attorneygeneral.gov.