What happens to a roof warranty if the company goes out of business?
Short answer. The roofer's workmanship warranty usually ends with the company, because it was that company's promise. The shingle manufacturer's warranty survives, and some enhanced manufacturer warranties include workmanship coverage backed by the manufacturer itself, so find your paperwork and contact the manufacturer directly.
Two warranties, two fates
- Workmanship warranty. Covers installation errors such as bad flashing or high nailing. It is a promise from the contractor. If the company dissolves, there is usually nobody left to honor it.
- Manufacturer warranty. Covers defects in the shingles and accessories. The manufacturer is still in business, so this coverage generally continues regardless of what happened to the installer.
The exception worth knowing
Some manufacturers offer enhanced system warranties, available only through their certified contractors, that include workmanship coverage backed by the manufacturer. If your roof was registered under one of these, misapplication may still be covered even though the roofer is gone. Look for a registration certificate or number in your closing papers or email.
What to do now
- Find the contract, invoice, and any warranty certificate.
- Identify the shingle brand and line from the paperwork, a leftover bundle wrapper, or the shingle's look.
- Contact the manufacturer's warranty department with the install date and photos.
- Hire a reputable roofer to document the problem. If the cause is a storm, it is an insurance matter, not a warranty one.
Prevent it next time
Choose a company with years of local history, ask whether an enhanced manufacturer warranty is available, and keep every document in one place. Our guide to roofing warranties explains the coverage types, and choosing a contractor in Georgia covers vetting.