Quick Summary (TL;DR)
Savannah's Historic District is one of America's most stringently protected areas. The city's Historic District Design Guidelines govern all exterior work, including roofing.
Always check with the City of Savannah Historic Preservation Commission before starting ANY work.
Historic preservation requires materials that match the original roof in appearance, not just function.
The Historic Preservation Commission evaluates roofing projects using these criteria:
Craftsman installing historic clay tiles
Understanding Savannah Historic District Requirements
Federal tax credits can offset 20% of restoration costs for properties on the National Register.
• 20% credit on qualified rehabilitation expenses
• Must be on National Register of Historic Places
• Work must meet Secretary of Interior Standards
Material Matching: The Critical Factor
• Can be applied to rental properties or owner-occupied
Example: $15,000 roof restoration = $3,000 federal tax credit
💡 Tip: Consult a tax professional before starting work to ensure compliance with ITC requirements.
Not all roofers understand historic preservation requirements. Here's what to look for:
Architectural Compatibility Standards
✅ Experience with Historic District Projects
Ask for references of completed historic restorations
Should help prepare documentation and communicate with HPDC
Can locate reclaimed tiles, specialty shingles, or custom reproductions
Historic Preservation Tax Credits
Standard Georgia roofing license + historic project insurance
Protect your investment and compliance:
Can result in fines, forced removal of work, and complications selling
❌ Using Modern Materials That Don't Match
Finding the Right Historic Contractor
Will be rejected by HPDC and may require redoing work at your expense
❌ Hiring Non-Historic Specialists
Inexperienced contractors may damage historic features or violate guidelines
Understanding original materials is essential for proper replacement
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Talya Roofing has extensive experience with Savannah Historic District projects. We understand COA requirements, material matching, and architectural standards for historic homes.
Ensure your restoration is protected
Keep your historic roof in perfect condition
Assess your historic roof's condition