Roof problems are stressful enough—but they’re a little easier to deal with if you know your roof is still under warranty. The tricky part? A lot of homeowners have no idea how to check.
If you’re wondering how to find out if your roof is under warranty, you’re not alone. Let’s walk through the steps to check your coverage, what to look for in the fine print, and how to take advantage of your warranty if you’re covered.
Start With Your Roofing Paperwork
The first (and easiest) step is to dig into your roofing documents. Look for:
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The original invoice or contract from your roofer
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Any warranty certificates or brochures
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The manufacturer’s warranty information (usually related to shingles or other materials)
If your roof was installed within the last 10–50 years, there’s a good chance there’s a warranty still in effect—depending on the type.
Know the Two Types of Roof Warranties
When figuring out how to find out if your roof is under warranty, it helps to understand the difference between the two most common types:
1. Manufacturer’s Warranty
This covers defects in the roofing materials themselves—such as shingles or underlayment. Most shingle manufacturers offer 25- to 50-year warranties, but they often require proof of proper installation and regular maintenance.
2. Workmanship Warranty
This one is from the contractor who installed your roof. It covers errors in installation—usually for 1 to 10 years, depending on the roofer. If your roof starts leaking within that time and it’s due to poor workmanship, this warranty may help.
Can’t Find the Paperwork? Try These Alternatives
If your documents are long gone, don’t panic. You can still find out if your roof is under warranty by:
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Contacting the roofing contractor who installed it. Reputable companies usually keep records on file.
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Calling the manufacturer of your roofing materials (e.g., GAF, Owens Corning). They may be able to identify your warranty using product codes or batch numbers on your shingles.
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Checking your home inspection report (if you bought the house recently). Inspectors often list roofing age and condition.
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Looking up your permit records with the city. Roofing jobs typically require permits, which include dates and contractor names.
What’s Typically Covered?
Warranties can vary, but here are some common coverages:
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Shingle defects (like premature cracking or curling)
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Leaks caused by material failure
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Improper installation (only under a workmanship warranty)
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Blow-offs in normal wind conditions
Keep in mind: warranties usually don’t cover damage from storms, poor maintenance, or foot traffic on the roof. And many require regular inspections or registration within a certain time after installation.
A Surprising Stat
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, more than 50% of all roofing problems are related to improper installation—not the materials. That’s why knowing whether you have a workmanship warranty can be just as important as a manufacturer’s guarantee.
How to Make a Warranty Claim
If you discover that your roof is under warranty, here’s how to move forward:
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Review the warranty terms carefully (length, coverage, exclusions).
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Take photos of the damage or issue.
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Contact the roofer or manufacturer and explain the problem.
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Submit a formal claim if required—this may involve inspection reports or repair estimates.
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Keep records of all communication.
If your warranty is valid, you may get a repair, replacement, or partial credit—but this varies depending on the terms and how long the roof has been in place.
Final Tips to Protect Yourself
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Register your roof warranty right after installation (some warranties require this).
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Keep all roof-related paperwork in one safe place for future reference.
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Schedule regular roof inspections—some warranties are voided if damage isn’t reported promptly.
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Read the fine print—know what’s excluded before you rely on coverage.
Conclusion: A Few Minutes Could Save You Thousands
Knowing how to find out if your roof is under warranty could be the difference between paying thousands in repairs or paying nothing at all. Whether you’re dealing with a leak, missing shingles, or just planning ahead, take the time to gather your records and check your coverage.
It’s a small step that could make a big impact—on your peace of mind and your wallet.