Roofing in Philadelphia, PA

When it is time for a pro

Here is what Philadelphia callers mention most:

• Missing or curled shingles
• Leaks around a chimney or skylight
• Ice dams in winter

Homes in Philadelphia: what pros run into

Much of the older city has combined sewers, and the Water Department's Green City, Clean Waters plan uses rain gardens and other green infrastructure to cut overflows. Shared party walls mean a roof, chimney or drain problem next door can show up in your house.

Chestnut Hill and Mount Airy have large stone houses built from local Wissahickon schist. Flat roofs with tar or modified bitumen are common on older row homes and apartment buildings, and they need regular attention at seams and drains.

Wind-driven rain during storms can push water under worn shingles. Fishtown and Northern Liberties have seen many old rows renovated or replaced with new construction since the 2000s.

Permits, licenses and your utility

Under Pennsylvania's Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, most home improvement contractors, roofers included, must register with the Attorney General's office. Check with the Department of Licenses and Inspections about permit requirements before re-roofing, especially in historic districts. After a big storm, roofers get busy fast, so a temporary tarp can protect the house while you wait for a full repair.

From call to visit

1. Tell us what is wrong and how urgent it is.
2. We pass your request to an independent roofing contractor who covers Philadelphia.
3. Nothing is booked until you and the pro agree on the visit and the cost.

What to have ready

Take photos of interior stains and any visible damage outside.