TALLAHASSEE, FL – November 7, 2024 – With thousands of Floridians still working to repair and reinforce homes damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) is urging legislators to make a crucial change: allow roofing contractors to perform wind mitigation installations, including hurricane straps and clips, traditionally limited to Division 1 building contractors.
As roofing contractors are already on-site replacing damaged roofs, FRSA argues that authorizing them to install these protective components would expedite recovery across Florida’s storm-battered communities. Mike Silvers, FRSA’s Director of Technical Services, explains, “By empowering roofers to handle wind mitigation work, we’re addressing a key bottleneck in getting homes fully secured and ready for future storms.”
Current Restrictions Slow Recovery
Currently, Florida law mandates that only Division 1 contractors install hurricane straps and clips. This restriction forces roofing contractors to wait for specialized structural contractors, causing significant delays in property restoration as demand for Division 1 contractors has surged post-storm.
Proposed Solution: Faster and Safer Restoration
The FRSA’s proposal would remove the need for Division 1 contractors in these specific, time-sensitive tasks. The change would allow roofing contractors, often the first responders, to complete necessary reinforcements, enhancing efficiency and ensuring homes are secured faster.
“This shift would mean safer homes, quicker recovery, and better allocation of skilled labor,” adds Silvers. “In a state frequently impacted by hurricanes, these are benefits we can’t afford to overlook.”
Contact for More Information:
Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association
Phone: 1-800-FRSA-FLA
