What warranty documentation and registration should homeowners expect?

Short Answer

Homeowners should expect to receive: the manufacturer's warranty document (with specific terms, coverage period, and exclusions), the contractor's workmanship warranty (in writing), product registration confirmation (if the manufacturer requires registration for enhanced warranty coverage), and installation documentation (photos, product information, and scope of work). Keep all warranty documents in a safe place and register the warranty if required.

Detailed Explanation

Warranty documentation is the evidence that a warranty exists and what it covers. After a roofing or exterior project, homeowners should receive several documents: the manufacturer's warranty document — this is the controlling document that specifies what is covered, for how long, what exclusions apply, and what conditions must be met. Read this document carefully and keep it in a safe place. The contractor's workmanship warranty — this should be in writing and specify the coverage period and what it covers (installation-related issues). Product registration confirmation — many enhanced manufacturer warranties require the project to be registered with the manufacturer after installation. If registration is required, the contractor should handle this and provide confirmation. Installation documentation — photos of the project, product information (manufacturer, product line, model numbers), and the scope of work. This documentation is important if a warranty claim is ever needed. If any of these documents are missing, ask the contractor for them. A manufacturer-certified contractor should be able to provide all of this documentation as part of the project. For homeowners, the key actions are: read the warranty document, understand what is and isn't covered, register the warranty if required, and keep all documents in a safe, accessible place.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

• ?Will you provide the manufacturer's warranty document?
• ?Will you register my project with the manufacturer?
• ?Will you provide a written workmanship warranty?
• ?What documentation will I receive after the project?