When decking requires replacement
- Visible delamination of plywood or OSB
- Wet decking from water intrusion (moisture readings)
- Fastener failure zones where sheathing lifted
- Structural splits or cracks
- Code-required upgrade (FL HVHZ zones often trigger decking requirements)
- Secondary water barrier (SWB) failure
Code-upgrade triggers
Florida Building Code upgrades that affect decking after a loss:
- HVHZ decking specifications in Miami-Dade, Broward, Monroe
- Enhanced nailing schedule: 6" / 6" ring shank
- Secondary water barrier: peel-and-stick underlayment
- Truss tie-down when roof is opened
Law-and-ordinance coverage pays this delta when properly documented.
Carrier scope-reduction patterns
- Pay only the visible-damage decking (a few sheets)
- Omit nailing pattern upgrades
- Omit SWB installation
- Ignore code requirements for full-roof replacement zones
Documenting the need
- Roofer statement on decking condition (post-tear-off)
- Moisture readings on decking
- Photo documentation of delamination / fastener pull-through
- Code citation for the specific jurisdiction
- Engineer report on structural status if contested