What is an example of a roof workmanship warranty?
Short answer. A roof workmanship warranty is the contractor's written promise to fix leaks and failures caused by how the roof was installed, for a stated number of years. A good example names who is covered, what counts as a workmanship defect, the exclusions, how to file a claim, how fast the contractor responds, and whether it transfers to a new owner.
An example, section by section
The wording below is an illustration of the typical structure in plain English, not legal language to copy.
- Coverage: "Contractor warrants that the roof system it installed at [address] will be free from defects in workmanship for [number] years from the completion date."
- What counts as workmanship: "Includes leaks or failures caused by improper nailing, flashing, underlayment installation, ventilation installation, or sealing performed by Contractor."
- Remedy: "Contractor will repair the defect, including labor and materials, at no charge to the owner."
- Exclusions: "Does not cover damage from hail, wind beyond the shingle's rated speed, falling trees, foot traffic, work by other trades such as solar or satellite installers, or failure to keep gutters and valleys clear."
- Claims process: "Owner must notify Contractor in writing within [number] days of discovering a problem. Contractor will inspect within [number] business days."
- Transfer: "Transferable to a subsequent owner upon written notice within [number] days of sale."
What to look for in a real one
- Whether interior damage from a covered leak is addressed, or only the roof repair.
- Whether the warranty is in the contract or a separate signed document.
- Whether the length is realistic for the company's history. A long warranty from a company that disappears is worthless.
- How it fits with the manufacturer's warranty, which covers product defects, not installation.
For the bigger picture, read roofing warranties explained and how to choose a roofing contractor in Georgia.