Philadelphia Rowhouse Roof Work and EZ Permit Limits

Describe the Work Beyond the Roof Covering

Ask the roofer to document the existing surface, drainage, penetrations and any apparent decking or structural problems. Separate replacement of the covering from changes to roof shape, framing or attached equipment. Include parapet and masonry concerns if they affect the leak path.

Photograph interior damage and accessible exterior conditions before work begins. The contractor should explain what can be assessed initially and what may only become visible after removal. Agree on the process for documenting hidden damage and approving a revised scope.

Check the Current EZ Standard

Philadelphia publishes permits available without plans and links the applicable EZ standards. Have the contractor identify the specific standard being used and show how the proposed work fits. If the project falls outside it, ask which permit route and drawings are needed.

Do not interpret a simplified application as permission to change the scope informally. Structural work, other trade work or a property-specific review issue can change the submission needs. Assign responsibility for checking those conditions before materials are delivered and the roof is opened.

Coordinate Access and Shared Junctions

Identify where crews and materials will enter, how debris will leave and whether neighboring access is needed. Obtain appropriate arrangements before relying on an adjoining roof or yard. The estimate should describe protection of the property and any shared-looking wall junctions.

Ask who handles flashing where the roof meets masonry and when any masonry repairs occur. Coordinate equipment disconnection or relocation with the appropriate trade. A clear sequence reduces the chance that a new roof surface must be reopened to finish work omitted from the original estimate.

Close the Permit With the Right Records

The city’s construction-inspection resources list documentation for roof replacement, including a Roof Replacement Certification. Confirm the applicable inspection and certification requirements for the permit and assign responsibility for submitting them. A contractor’s warranty is a separate document.

Keep photographs of concealed repairs, product information, inspection results and the final approved scope. At the walkthrough, review drainage and penetrations rather than judging completion solely by the uniform appearance of the surface. Resolve outstanding permit items while the responsible contractor and project records are readily available.

• Which EZ standard, if any, covers the exact roof scope?
• What finding would require drawings or a revised permit?
• Who supplies the roof certification and closes the required inspections?

Sources And Local Resources

Official sources checked October 17, 2026. Confirm current requirements with the authority responsible for your property.

• Philadelphia Permits Without Plans: EZ PermitsSimplified permit routes depend on the applicable EZ standard and still include inspection requirements.
• Philadelphia Construction InspectionsRoof Replacement Certification and project inspection documentation.