Hail can turn a quiet Arvada afternoon into a scramble for tarps and estimates. If you are planning a roof replacement, it helps to know exactly when a permit is required and how hail season affects timing, insurance, and materials. You deserve a clear plan that protects your home and your budget. This guide walks you through permits, inspections, hail claims, and smart contractor choices in Arvada. Let’s dive in.
Arvada roof permits: the basics
Arvada requires permits and inspections for most roof replacements. If you replace more than 100 square feet of roofing in a 12‑month period, you need a permit. The city uses eTRAKiT for applications, fee payment, and inspection scheduling. You can review requirements on the city’s Re‑Roofing page and confirm details with Building Services. See Arvada’s re‑roofing rules.
When you need a permit
Replacing up to 100 square feet in a year is considered maintenance and does not require a re‑roof permit. Anything beyond that, including full tear‑offs, needs a permit and inspections. Overlays depend on existing layers and condition, so confirm with the city and your contractor before you proceed. Review the city’s guidance.
How to apply and who pulls it
Licensed contractors log into eTRAKiT and usually pull the permit for you. If you are the owner and occupy the home, you may apply, but if you hire a contractor, that licensed contractor must be listed on the permit. Always verify the contractor’s Arvada license status before you sign. Check contractor licensing.
Fees and inspections
Permit fees are based on roofing valuation and use tax, with typical residential charges ranging from the low hundreds to low thousands depending on job value. Ladders must be on site for the inspector, and the permit stays posted until final sign‑off. Before final payment, confirm the permit number and that the final inspection passed in eTRAKiT. See the fee schedule and look up permits.
Asbestos triggers to know
If your project involves older materials, state rules may require an asbestos inspection when disturbance exceeds trigger levels. If regulated asbestos is present, certified professionals and notification are required. Your contractor should advise you if your scope requires testing. Review Colorado asbestos guidance.
Hail season in Arvada
Arvada sits in the Front Range’s “Hail Alley,” with the busiest stretch typically in May and June and continued activity into late summer. That risk shapes how you plan roof work, file claims, and choose materials. If a storm hits, document damage promptly and contact your insurer. See Colorado’s hail season timing.
Insurance and hail claims
After a hail event, take photos of the roof, gutters, vents, and exterior, and keep receipts for any temporary repairs. Report the claim to your insurer promptly and avoid permanent repairs until the adjuster inspects, while taking steps to prevent further damage. If needed, the Colorado Division of Insurance offers consumer guidance and help with disputes. Read the DOI’s tips after storms.
Estimates, adjusters, and supplements
It is common to have a roofer meet the adjuster during inspection, and you should get 2 to 3 reputable estimates before signing a contract. If additional storm‑related damage is uncovered during the project, your contractor can request a supplement from the insurer. File promptly and keep organized records of all reports and invoices. See guidance on claims and estimates.
Deductibles and policy details
Your out‑of‑pocket cost depends on your deductible and whether your policy pays actual cash value or replacement cost. Some insurers offer discounts for impact‑resistant roofs and may treat cosmetic versus functional damage differently. Ask your agent to explain how your policy handles wind and hail claims.
Choose hail‑resistant materials
Impact‑resistant products can reduce the chance of leaks after a storm. The UL 2218 test rates products from Class 1 to Class 4, with Class 4 indicating higher impact resistance in standardized testing. Use the rating to compare products and ask your insurer about any potential premium benefits. Learn about UL 2218.
Options to discuss with your roofer
- Class 4 impact‑resistant asphalt shingles are widely available and designed for hail‑prone regions. Explore impact‑resistant options.
- Metal and stone‑coated steel systems can perform well depending on profile and gauge.
- Secondary water barriers, proper flashing, and ventilation reduce leak risk even if the outer layer is impacted.
Hire the right Arvada contractor
Choose a contractor licensed with the City of Arvada, with proper liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and local references. Beware of door‑to‑door solicitations, high‑pressure tactics, and anyone offering to pay your deductible. Use a written contract that spells out materials, permits, inspections, start and finish dates, cleanup, warranties, and lien waivers. Verify licensing here and review consumer tips from the state. Read DOI consumer advice.
Pre‑roof checklist
- Photograph the roof and property before work starts.
- Verify your contractor’s Arvada license and insurance.
- Confirm who will pull the permit and note the permit number.
- Check permit issuance and final inspection status before final payment. Look up permits in eTRAKiT.
- Get at least two estimates and keep all reports and invoices organized.
A well‑planned roof replacement protects your home, keeps you compliant with Arvada rules, and positions you to act fast after hail. If you want local perspective on timing, resale impact, or which updates matter most for buyers in Arvada, reach out. You can always connect with Trish Kelly for neighbor‑first guidance.
FAQs
Do you need a permit for an Arvada reroof?
- Yes, unless you are only replacing up to 100 square feet in a 12‑month period; larger repairs and full replacements require a permit and inspections. See city rules.
Who can pull a roof permit in Arvada?
- A licensed contractor typically pulls it, or an owner‑occupant may apply; if you hire a contractor, that licensed contractor must be listed on the permit. Check licensing.
When is hail season in Arvada?
- Hail risk increases in late spring, peaks in May and June, and can continue through summer on the Front Range. View hail season timing.
Are Class 4 shingles worth it in hail areas?
- Class 4 is the highest UL 2218 rating and generally offers better impact resistance; ask your insurer about any premium discounts. Learn more about UL 2218.
Can you overlay a new roof over old in Arvada?
- It depends on existing layers and condition; confirm city requirements and contractor recommendations before deciding. Review Arvada guidance.
How do you verify permit and inspection status?
- Use Arvada’s eTRAKiT system to look up your permit and confirm that the final inspection is approved before making final payment. Search permits.
