Florida: a storm took off about 30 percent of a shingle roof that was installed in 2015.

Yes, the adjuster is likely correct under the 2023 Florida Building Code (FBC), but the specific code section depends on your roof deck type.

The Rule (FBC 2023, Section 1507.2.1 / FBC Existing Building Code 706.3): If more than 25% of the roof area (not just shingles) is damaged within any 12-month period, the entire roof covering must be replaced to meet current code. You are at 30%, so this triggers a full replacement.

Critical Nuance — Roof Deck Attachment (FBC 706.3.1): If your roof deck is plywood/OSB (not plank/board decking), the code also requires the deck attachment to meet current hurricane standards (8d ring-shank nails @ 6" edge / 12" field). If the existing nailing doesn't pass inspection, the deck must be re-nailed or sheathed over. This is often the biggest cost driver.

Exceptions (Rare for Shingles):

• Matching Exception (FBC 1507.2.1.1): Only applies if the existing roof has < 25% damage AND you can match the existing shingle type/color/class. You exceed 25%.
• Metal/Roof Systems: Different rules apply (FBC 1507.4), but you have shingles.

Action Items:

1. Verify the measurement: Ensure the adjuster measured total roof area (all slopes), not just the damaged slope.
2. Demand a Deck Inspection: Require the roofer to pull a few shingles now to verify nail spacing/pattern. If it fails, the claim scope must include re-decking/re-nailing (Code Upgrade / Ordinance & Law coverage).
3. Check "Ordinance & Law" Coverage: Your policy must have this endorsement to pay for the code-required deck upgrades. Without it, you pay the difference.

Bottom line: At 30% damage, a full tear-off to deck is code-mandated. Ensure the estimate includes FBC 706.3.1 deck compliance.

Yes, under Florida law, the insurance adjuster is correct.

Florida Statute § 627.7011(1)(b) — commonly known as the “25% rule” — requires that if more than 25% of a roof is damaged and needs repair or replacement, the entire roof must be replaced, not just patched. This applies to residential property insurance claims in Florida, regardless of the roof’s age or original installation date (2015 in your case).

Since approximately 30% of your shingle roof was damaged by the storm, the adjuster is properly invoking this statute. Even though only a portion is visibly damaged, Florida law treats the roof as a system: partial replacement beyond the 25% threshold is not permitted because it risks mismatched materials, uneven wear, compromised waterproofing, and potential future leaks or code violations.

The rule exists to ensure uniformity, durability, and compliance with building codes — especially important in hurricane-prone areas like Florida. Attempting to repair only the damaged section could void manufacturer warranties, fail inspection, or lead to denial of future claims.

Action steps:

• Confirm the adjuster’s damage assessment in writing (photos, measurements, estimate).
• Ensure the replacement meets current Florida Building Code (FBC) requirements, including wind uplift standards (e.g., FBC Chapter 15).
• If you dispute the % damage, request a second opinion from a licensed Florida roofing contractor — but note: the 25% rule is statutory, not discretionary.

You are not being overcharged — you are being protected by Florida law designed to prevent unsafe, piecemeal repairs after storms.

Note: If your policy has a roof endorsement or actual cash value (ACV) clause, payout may be adjusted for depreciation — but the replacement requirement still stands.