What roof warranty do you get from a home builder?
Read the warranty booklet you got at closing
Builder warranties vary, but many follow a pattern: about one year on workmanship and materials, about two years on mechanical systems, and up to ten years on major structural elements. A roof leak caused by bad flashing usually falls in the short workmanship window. The roof covering itself is rarely part of the long structural coverage.
Common new-construction roof problems
- Missing or poorly placed kickout flashing where a roof edge meets a wall, which can rot siding and sheathing.
- Shingles nailed too high, which reduces wind resistance.
- Missing drip edge or unsealed pipe boots.
- Inadequate or mismatched attic ventilation.
See roof flashing explained for what correct flashing looks like.
Use the first year well
- Schedule an independent roof inspection around month 10 or 11, before the workmanship coverage ends.
- Report any leak or defect to the builder in writing, with photos and dates.
- Ask the builder which shingle line was installed and whether the manufacturer warranty was registered.
If a dispute arises, Georgia's Right to Repair Act generally requires a homeowner to give the contractor written notice of a construction defect claim at least 90 days before filing suit, which gives the builder a chance to inspect and offer a repair. Talk to an attorney for advice on your situation. For how the different warranties stack, see roofing warranties explained.