Roof replacement in Chomedey

Buildings with some age

The City lists Chomedey among its older neighbourhoods, where plexes and mixed-use buildings mostly date from the 1940s and 1950s. It also writes that Chomedey is one of the neighbourhoods with a high proportion of dwellings in need of major repairs.

When repairs follow one another year after year, it is better to ask for the price of a full roof replacement. The page on roofing in Chomedey describes the area in more detail.

Step 1: find out whether the material changes

Material is the only criterion on the City's page about exterior residential renovation.

• Replacing the roof covering with the same material, including adding insulation: no permit.
• Replacing it with a new material: permit required.

On a flat roof, there is one more question. Article 380 of the Code de l'urbanisme (Laval's urban planning code) calls for a green, white or highly reflective covering, without saying whether an existing roof can be redone as it was. Have the Service de l'urbanisme (the City's planning department) confirm it before choosing the membrane.

Step 2: the permit, when it applies

The City posts a fee of $92 for the first $20,000 of work, plus $2.50 per $1,000 or part of $1,000.

The announced processing time is 30 days. The City states that it is approximate and counted from the moment all required documents are received. An incomplete file pushes back the work.

The application is filed in Mon Dossier (the City's online portal), on the City's website. The Service de l'urbanisme counter, at 1333, boulevard Chomedey, receives by appointment those who cannot apply online.

Step 3: during the work

The City gives two instructions. Wait until you have received the permit before starting. Post it for the whole duration of the work, somewhere visible from the street.

Have the contract state who applies for the permit, you or the roofer, and when the work can begin.

Financial assistance: what exists

The City of Laval's list of programs and grants has nothing for the roof of an ordinary residence. It includes a heritage building revitalization program, which the City presents as assistance of up to $35,000 to renovate or restore a heritage building. Eligibility conditions must be checked with the City.

For other owners, the programs that touch the roof target insulation, not the covering. They come from the Government of Quebec and Hydro-Québec, and their conditions change. Check them on the official websites when you plan.

Comparing quotes

Ask each roofer for a written quote that names:

• the material installed, and whether it differs from the existing one
• what is torn off and what is kept
• what happens to decking or insulation found in poor condition
• the manufacturer's warranty and the contractor's warranty, each with its length
• who handles the permit

Check that the contractor holds a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ, Quebec's building authority). The register is public.

Frequently asked questions