Is it Under Warranty?

Your roof problem could be the result of a manufacturer’s defect. Before paying for costly repairs, know your rights and get your questions answered.

When a leak or other problem strikes your roof, the first question to ask is, “Is it under warranty?” Unfortunately, many building owners don’t know the answer to that question because of misplaced paperwork or changes in their facility management personnel. Others assume (incorrectly) that “routine” problems like leaks are not covered by a roof’s warranty.

If your roof is less than five years old and there is a leak, it most likely stems from a problem with the roofing system and that problem could be the responsibility of the roofing manufacturer. If you have roof leaks and your roof system is less than ten years old, the following steps can help ensure that you don’t spend money on correcting a problem that is covered under warranty:

Find your roof warranty and read it carefully.
Call the manufacturer of your roofing system and ask them to come out and look at your roof. Tell them that it could possibly be a warranty claim. Do NOT allow them to charge you for this inspection.
Go up on the roof with the inspector.
- Look at the roof with the inspector and ask questions:
  - Why is my roof leaking?
  - Why are there blisters on my roof?
  - Why are there open seams on my roof?
  - Why is my roof splitting?
- Demand answers from the inspector. Do NOT accept the inspector stating that he or she is “just there to inspect and someone from the home office will contact you at a later date.” Demand answers!
If the inspector tells you that the problems are not covered by the warranty, ask for specific reasons why that is the case.
If you are not satisfied with the manufacturer’s inspection, call an independent roof consultant to inspect your roof. There are many excellent firms that can help you.
Finally, get what you paid for and remember that roof warranties are written by manufacturers to protect their bottom line and NOT yours.