Published 2026-09-14 · Last reviewed 2026-09-14 · Virginia Roofing Services editorial team
One statewide code, local enforcement
Virginia building regulation runs through the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, administered through the Department of Housing and Community Development and enforced by your county or city building official.
That means the technical requirements are consistent across the Commonwealth while permit fees, forms and inspection scheduling are local. Always confirm requirements with the jurisdiction that covers your property.
The contractor pulls the permit, not you
If a contractor asks the homeowner to pull the permit, treat it as a red flag. A homeowner-pulled permit shifts responsibility for code compliance onto you, and it is a common workaround when a company is not properly licensed for the work.
The written contract should name who pulls the permit and in which jurisdiction.
What the code side of a re-roof touches
Roofing work is not only about shingles. The inspection looks at the assembly.
- Number of permitted existing layers before a full tear-off is required
- Underlayment and ice barrier requirements
- Fastening patterns, tightened in higher wind exposure areas
- Attic ventilation ratios
- Flashing at every penetration and wall transition
- Decking condition and acceptable replacement material
Why the inspection is on your side
A passed final inspection is independent confirmation that the work met the code, and it is part of the paperwork trail when you sell. Unpermitted roofing work discovered during a sale can delay closing and cost far more to resolve retroactively.
Verify the contractor's licence and class in the DPOR lookup before signing, and keep the permit and final inspection record with your closing documents.
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