Understanding Warranties
What You Need to Know
What Is a Manufacturer Warranty?
A manufacturer warranty is a written promise from the company that made the product — the shingles, siding, windows, skylight, or roofing system — that they will repair or replace the product if it fails under specific conditions within a defined period. The manufacturer, not the contractor, issues this warranty and is responsible for honoring it. Manufacturer warranties typically cover material defects, manufacturing flaws, and in some cases, specific performance characteristics like wind resistance or algae resistance. They do not cover damage caused by improper installation, lack of maintenance, or events like storms that are covered by insurance.
What Is a Workmanship Warranty?
A workmanship warranty covers the installation labor — the work the contractor performed. If a leak occurs because flashing was installed incorrectly, or shingles were fastened improperly, a workmanship warranty covers the cost of fixing the installation error. A manufacturer warranty alone does not cover installation defects. Some manufacturer certification programs allow certified contractors to offer workmanship warranties that are backed by the manufacturer, meaning the manufacturer — not just the contractor — stands behind the installation. This is a significant distinction, because a contractor-only workmanship warranty is only as reliable as the contractor's continued business operations.
What Is Warranty Eligibility?
Warranty eligibility means the contractor and the installation meet the manufacturer's requirements for warranty coverage. Many enhanced warranties are only available when the installation is performed by a certified contractor using a complete system of the manufacturer's products, installed according to the manufacturer's specifications. A non-certified contractor installing the same products may not qualify the homeowner for the same warranty coverage. Warranty eligibility is determined by the manufacturer, not the contractor, and it depends on the specific product, system, and installation requirements.
Does Contractor Certification Affect Warranty Eligibility?
Yes. Manufacturer certification programs exist specifically because manufacturers want to ensure their products are installed correctly before offering enhanced warranty coverage. When a manufacturer certifies a contractor, they are verifying that the contractor meets their standards for licensing, insurance, and installation training. This certification is often a condition for the homeowner to receive the manufacturer's most comprehensive warranty options. Without a certified contractor, the homeowner may receive only a basic material warranty — not the enhanced, non-prorated, or workmanship-backed warranty that certification unlocks.
What Documentation Should a Homeowner Receive?
After a project is completed, a homeowner should receive: the manufacturer's warranty document (or registration confirmation), a written workmanship warranty from the contractor, product documentation (including model numbers and product specifications), and a record of the installation including photos if available. For manufacturer-backed warranties that require registration, the contractor should complete or facilitate the registration process. If the warranty requires specific installation methods or components, the documentation should confirm those requirements were met.
What Questions Should I Ask About My Warranty?
Ask: What exactly is covered — materials, workmanship, or both? Who issues the warranty — the manufacturer or just the contractor? Is the warranty prorated (decreasing in value over time) or non-prorated? What installation requirements must be met for the warranty to be valid? What maintenance is required to keep the warranty in effect? What is excluded from coverage? How do I file a claim if something goes wrong? Is the warranty transferable if I sell my home?
By Category
Warranty Details by Service Type
Each category below has specific warranty considerations based on the products, manufacturers, and certifications that apply.
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