Deciding to replace
How do I know it's time for a new roof?
Look for leaks that keep appearing in new places, rust that has eaten through steel, concrete tiles that are porous or breaking, sagging ridge lines, and roofs made of fibro or corrugated asbestos cement. A single leak usually means a repair. Our guide to signs you need a roof replacement covers each in more depth.
Can't I just restore it?
If the tiles or sheets are structurally sound, restoration or repairs may be enough. If they are failing, a coating will not save them. See roof replacement vs roof restoration.
How long does a roof last on the coast?
It depends on the material, the installation, the distance from the sea and the maintenance. Steel and tile roofs can both last for decades when properly chosen and installed. Salt air and humidity shorten the life of fixings, flashings and some coatings. Read how often should a roof be replaced.
Materials
What is the most common replacement roof here?
Steel, particularly pre-painted products such as Colorbond, because it is light, suits low pitches and handles heavy rain well. Tiles remain popular on some streets and with owners who prefer the look and the quiet.
What about near the beach?
Coastal sites need steel with a coating grade suited to marine exposure, matching fixings and flashings, and occasional washing of sheltered areas. See coastal roof materials.
Will a steel roof make the house hotter?
A light-coloured steel roof with a good roof blanket and ceiling insulation can perform very well in summer. Colour and insulation matter as much as material. See energy-efficient roofing options.
Rules and paperwork
Does a new roof need approval?
Sometimes. Like-for-like replacement may not, while changes to structure, material weight or roof shape may. A private building certifier or your council can confirm. See roofing regulations and compliance in QLD.
Does the roofer need a licence?
In Queensland, roofing work above a set value must be done by a contractor with the appropriate QBCC licence. Check the QBCC's online register before you sign.
What about asbestos?
Removal of asbestos roofing is regulated by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland. Above a set quantity a licensed removalist must do it, and approved removal and disposal methods apply. See asbestos roof replacement and removal.
Practicalities
Can I stay in the house?
Most people do. The roof is opened and closed in sections. During asbestos removal, follow the removalist's advice.
What about solar panels?
They are removed and reinstalled by a licensed electrician. Mention them at the inspection so the cost and timing are in the quote.
What if it rains?
Contractors only open what they can close the same day and keep tarps ready. In storm season, expect some delays.
Money
How much will it cost?
See our cost guide for 2026 planning ranges, and what affects the cost of roof replacement for the factors behind them.
Will insurance pay?
Insurance may cover sudden storm damage but rarely general wear. Check your policy, report damage early and ask the roofer for a written report. See storm damage roof replacement.
Is there a rebate?
Generally, no direct rebate exists for replacing a roof, though related programs (for example for solar) may apply. See government rebates for roof replacement.
Before you book an inspection
A little preparation makes the inspection more useful. Note where and when leaks happen, gather any old roofing paperwork, check whether your property has a body corporate, covenant or bushfire mapping that could affect materials, and list the extras you are curious about, such as new gutters, whirlybirds or skylights. If you have solar, find the system details. Then the roofer can answer your questions on the day rather than in a follow-up call.
After the job
What maintenance does a new roof need?
Keep gutters and valleys clear, wash salt from sheltered areas of steel roofs near the coast, and have the roof checked after severe storms.
Who do I call if it leaks?
The contractor who installed it, in writing, with photos. Workmanship issues should be covered by their workmanship warranty and your contract. See roof warranties explained.
General information for Sunshine Coast property owners, not advice about your particular roof. Rules, products and programs change; confirm with the authority named, or with Sunshine Coast Council or Noosa Shire Council, before acting.