Understanding Roofing Contracts in Colorado
When it comes to hiring a contractor for roofing work, understanding the legal requirements of a roofing contract is essential. In Colorado, roofing contracts are governed by laws that aim to protect property owners and establish fair practices within the roofing industry. Whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor, knowing the rules about roof contracts can help you avoid disputes and ensure compliance with state laws and regulations.
Why Colorado Regulates Roofing Contracts
The Colorado General Assembly enacted roofing contract laws to safeguard consumers from deceptive trade practices and ensure transparency. These laws are designed to:
Require clear, written roofing contracts detailing the scope of work and costs.
Allow property owners to cancel contracts within a specific time frame.
Prohibit roofing contractors from paying or waiving insurance deductibles.
By establishing these protections, Colorado ensures that property owners and contractors alike operate under clear, fair agreements.
What a Colorado Roofing Contract Must Include
Before beginning any roofing project, a roofing contractor must provide the property owner with a written roof contract. According to C.R.S. § 6-22-103, the contract must include:
Scope of Work: A detailed description of the roofing services to be performed.
Timeline: Estimated start and completion dates.
Costs: An itemized breakdown of costs.
Contractor Information: Name, address, and contact details of the contractor.
Insurance Proof: Documentation of the contractor’s insurance coverage.
Cancellation Policy: Information on the property owner’s right to cancel the contract.
Insurance Deductible Statement: A mandatory statement that contractors cannot pay or waive the owner’s insurance deductible.
By requiring these terms in every roofing contract, Colorado law ensures clarity and accountability for all parties involved.
Your Right to Cancel a Roofing Contract
Property owners in Colorado have the right to rescind a roofing contract within seventy-two (72) hours of signing. This protection, outlined in C.R.S. § 6-22-104, allows homeowners to reconsider their decision without financial penalties.
If a contract is canceled, the contractor must return all payments or deposits within ten (10) days.
Contractors may retain payment for any work already performed, provided it was done in a workmanlike manner.
This cancellation policy provides homeowners with an essential safety net, especially for large or unexpected roofing projects.
Prohibitions on Waiving Insurance Deductibles
One of the most critical protections for property owners is the prohibition against paying or waiving insurance deductibles. Under C.R.S. § 6-22-105, roofing contractors are:
Prohibited from advertising or promising to pay or waive a property owner’s insurance deductible.
Restricted from acting as public adjusters or negotiating directly with insurance companies.
Contractors who violate these rules risk:
Their cost estimates being disregarded by insurers.
Legal consequences, including lawsuits from property owners or insurers.
For property owners, these provisions ensure that roofing contractors operate honestly and professionally.
What Counts as Roofing Services Under Colorado Law?
Colorado’s roofing laws define key terms to help homeowners and contractors understand their scope, as outlined in C.R.S. § 6-22-102:
Roofing Services: Includes most types of roofing work but excludes services costing $1,000 or less per contract.
Residential Property: Refers to properties where roofing work is performed.
These definitions ensure that the law is applied uniformly across various types of roofing projects.
Why Compliant Roofing Contracts Matter
Whether you’re a homeowner seeking roofing repairs or a contractor offering services, using a compliant roofing contract ensures transparency and trust. For homeowners, these contracts clarify the terms of service, provide a right to rescind, and prohibit misleading practices like deductible waivers. For contractors, compliance helps avoid disputes and legal challenges.
Protect Yourself with Legal Expertise
If you’re planning a roofing project or have questions about a roof contract, our Colorado law firm specializes in construction law and can help. From drafting roofing contracts to resolving disputes, we’re here to ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today to learn more about Colorado’s roofing contract laws and how we can assist with your project or legal concerns!
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information provided on this website without seeking legal advice from an attorney.