What building regulations apply to a new roof in Georgia?

Building code basics for reroofing

• Layers. A new layer of shingles cannot go over a roof that already has two layers, or over roofing that is water-soaked or deteriorated. Most reroofs tear off to the deck.
• Slope. Asphalt shingles need at least a 2/12 slope, and slopes from 2/12 up to 4/12 call for a double underlayment application.
• Underlayment and drip edge. Underlayment covers the deck, and drip edge is required at the eaves and rakes of shingle roofs.
• Ice barrier. Required at the eaves only where the local jurisdiction says ice damming is a hazard, which is uncommon in most of Georgia but worth asking about in the mountain counties.
• Fasteners and wind. Shingles must be fastened per code and the manufacturer, with wind ratings suited to the local design wind speed.
• Ventilation. Attic ventilation rules apply to vented attics, which most Georgia homes have.

Permits and inspections

Requirements vary by city and county. Many require a permit for a full replacement, some inspect mid-job, and most require a final. Historic districts and HOAs add their own approvals. See roofing permits in Georgia and HOA roof approval in Georgia.

Consumer protection laws

• A contractor may not pay, waive or rebate your insurance deductible.
• You can cancel a residential roofing contract that depends on an insurance claim if the claim is denied; read your contract for the window.
• Since July 1, 2025, a contractor may not take an assignment of your insurance proceeds within one year of a declared natural disaster.

When current code requires items the old roof lacked, see code upgrades and ordinance or law coverage for how insurance may treat them.