Roofing Code Requirements in Franklin, TN
What Homeowners Need to Know
If you’re replacing or repairing your roof in Franklin, TN, you need to know about local building code requirements—specifically regarding ice and water shield and drip edge installation. These aren’t optional upgrades; they’re mandatory components designed to protect your home and extend the lifespan of your roofing system.
Unfortunately, more homeowners are finding out the hard way that some insurance companies are refusing to cover these required upgrades—even though most policies already include a code upgrade endorsement. Let’s break down what these components are, why they matter, and how insurers are trying to pass the buck.
What Is "Ice and Water Shield"—and Why Does It Matter?
Ice and Water shield is a waterproof membrane installed under your shingles, typically at the roof’s eaves, valleys and other vulnerable areas. Its primary job is to prevent leaks caused by ice dams and wind-driven rain.
Franklin, TN Code Requirement
In Franklin and Williamson County, ice and water shield is required by local building codes in the valleys of a roof, especially in areas prone to freezing temperatures and heavy rain events. With Tennessee’s unpredictable weather, this extra layer of defense is crucial.
Some benefits of Ice and Water include:
- Prevents leaks in vulnerable areas like valleys
- Protects against ice dams and water infiltration
- Extends roof lifespan by minimizing underlayment damage
- Required for code compliance, especially during a full roof replacement
What Is Drip Edge—and Why You Can’t Skip It
Drip edge is a metal flashing installed along the edges of your roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters. It’s not just a nice-to-have feature—it’s a first line of defense against water damage.
Drip edge is mandatory under Tennessee building code and required by manufacturers to maintain roofing warranties. Skipping it can lead to moisture intrusion, rotted decking, and major long-term issues.
Benefits of Drip Edge:
- Prevents water damage to fascia and decking
- Improves gutter performance
- Essential for maintaining shingle warranty
- Required by both code and best practices
The Insurance Company Loophole: You’re Paying for It—But Not Getting It
Nearly all homeowner policies in Franklin, TN include a code upgrade endorsement. This rider ensures that if your home needs repairs or replacement, the work must meet current building codes—and the insurer is supposed to pay for it. Here’s where it gets shady.
More insurers are using questionable tactics to avoid paying for code-required items like ice and water shield or drip edge. It’s not that they outright refuse to pay for these upgrades, instead they will often require documentation that is either incredibly hard to get or impossible to get. This is despite the fact that:
- The upgrades are mandatory by local code
- The homeowner has already been paying for the endorsement
- Not installing these upgrades would mean your roof is not compliant with the law or with manufacturer warranties
- This tactic is designed to save the insurance company money—at your expense.
What Franklin Homeowners Should Do
1. Know the Code:
Understand that ice and water shield and drip edge are not optional. If they’re not included in your estimate, something is wrong.
2. Review Your Policy:
Check that your policy includes a code upgrade endorsement—most do.
3. Demand Accountability:
If your insurer denies code-related components, push back. Ask for written documentation stating why they won’t pay for code-compliant work.
4. Get a Professional Roofing Contractor:
Work with a local company familiar with Franklin’s roofing code requirements and experienced in dealing with insurance claim disputes.
Don’t let insurance companies cut corners on your roof. You’re paying for a policy that includes code upgrades—make sure you get them. In Franklin, TN, roofing code requirements like ice and water shield and drip edge aren’t just best practices—they’re the law.
If your insurance provider is refusing to cover required components, you don’t have to go it alone. Contact Professional Roofers, Inc. to schedule a roof inspection or for help navigating your insurance claim. We make sure your roof is done right—and to code.
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