Roof Renovations: What Are the Municipal Regulations to Be Followed in Quebec?

Roof renovations are a major undertaking that involves more than just choosing materials or hiring a qualified roofer. Before even starting the work, it is essential to be familiar with the municipal regulations in force. These rules, which can vary from one city to another, govern several technical and aesthetic aspects of the roof: type of covering, minimum slope, building height, authorized materials, and more.

Each Municipality Has Its Own Requirements

Contrary to what one might think, there is no single provincial standard governing residential roof renovations. The Quebec Construction Code, developed by the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ), serves as a reference, but each municipality is free to adopt the edition of the code it deems appropriate. This means that requirements can vary considerably between Montreal, Quebec City, Gatineau, or a small municipality in rural areas.

Before planning your work, it is therefore essential to check with your local municipal authority to find out the specific regulations that apply to your property.

Minimum Roof Slope

Roof slope is a crucial factor, especially when installing asphalt shingles, the most commonly used material in Quebec. According to the Building Code, asphalt shingles may only be installed on roofs with a minimum slope of 1:3, or approximately 18.4 degrees. Below this slope, alternative materials such as elastomeric or TPO membranes are often required.

Some municipalities, such as Montreal, impose even stricter rules for flat or low-slope roofs, including the requirement to obtain a renovation permit and comply with specific waterproofing standards.

Building Height and Margins

Changing the structure of your roof, for example, by adding a storey or increasing the pitch, can affect the overall height of the building. This may conflict with local planning regulations, which often limit the maximum height in order to preserve the harmony of the neighbourhood or comply with environmental constraints.

In addition, some municipalities impose certain margins of clearance or restrictions related to proximity to wetlands, waterways, or heritage areas.

Approved Materials

The choice of roofing materials is also regulated. Municipalities may prohibit certain types of roofing for safety, durability or aesthetic reasons. For example, in historic neighbourhoods, it may be mandatory to use traditional materials such as slate or metal.

Building regulations also allow cities to regulate the quality and assembly of materials, particularly to ensure proper insulation, fire resistance and protection against water infiltration.

Permits and Licensed Contractors

In most cases, a renovation permit is required to replace a roof. This permit allows the municipality to verify that the work complies with current standards. It is also strongly recommended that you hire a contractor licensed by the RBQ, which guarantees that the work will be carried out according to industry standards.

Key Steps for Successful Roof Renovations

Here are the steps to follow before renovating your roof:

1. Check with your local municipal authority to find out about local regulations.

2. Check the slope of your roof and the materials that are permitted.

3. Apply for a renovation permit, if necessary.

4. Hire a licensed and experienced roofer.

5. Comply with the height, margins and aesthetic standards specific to your area.

At René Perron Couvreurs, we guide our customers through every step of the process, ensuring that the work complies with Quebec roof renovation regulations. Whether you are in Quebec City, Lévis or elsewhere in the province, our team is here to guide you toward a safe, durable and compliant roof. Contact us now for your roofing needs!