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Can I reroof my own house in California?

Source: California Roofing Help (californiaroofinghelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.

A homeowner improving their principal residence is exempt if the work is done before sale, they have lived there for the 12 months before the work is finished, and they have not used this exemption on more than two structures more than once in any three year period. An owner who does all the work personally, or with employees paid wages only, and does not offer the improvements for sale is also exempt (B&P 7044). (source: California Legislature)

Proof that you sold or offered the property for sale within one year after finishing is presumed to show the work was for sale (B&P 7044). (source: California Legislature)

City notes

What CSLB says owner-builders take on

• When you sign a building permit application as an owner-builder, you assume full responsibility for all phases of your project and its integrity. You must pull all building permits, and your project must pass codes and building inspections.
• You are responsible for ordering materials and making sure all suppliers are paid, and for supervising, scheduling and paying subcontractors.
• If you use anyone other than a licensed subcontractor, you may be considered an employer. Employers must register with the state and federal governments and handle income tax withholding, Social Security taxes, workers' compensation insurance, disability insurance and unemployment contributions.

(source: Contractors State License Board)

Owner-builder risks

• Subcontractors and suppliers who are not paid on schedule may file mechanics liens against your property.
• If your workers are injured, or your subcontractors are not licensed or do not carry liability or workers' compensation insurance and they are injured, you could be asked to pay for injuries and rehabilitation through your homeowner's insurance policy or face lawsuits.
• Be cautious of unlicensed people who offer to guide you through the owner-builder process for a consulting fee; CSLB says they are breaking the law.

(source: Contractors State License Board)

On this site: Do I need a permit to replace a roof in California? · When does a California roofer need a C-39 license? · Hiring a roofer after a California wildfire or declared disaster · California roof insurance claim deadlines · California roofing contract and payment rules · How to check a California roofer and complain · Can I reroof my own house in California? · Roofing permit costs in California cities · Cool roof and fire-zone roofing rules in California cities · Where to complain about a California roofer · Cities · FAQ · Sources

Sources

• California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Business and Professions Code 7044 (owner-builder exemption) (checked November 2, 2026)
• City and County of San Francisco: Apply for a reroofing permit (checked November 2, 2026)
• City of Sacramento Community Development: Minor Permits (checked November 2, 2026)
• City of Oakland Planning and Building: Re-Roofing and Insulation Certificates (checked November 2, 2026)
• City of San Jose: Online Building Permits (checked November 2, 2026)
• Contractors State License Board (CSLB): Owner-Builder Responsibilities (checked November 2, 2026)
• Contractors State License Board (CSLB): Owner-Builder Risks (checked November 2, 2026)

Last updated: November 2, 2026