How To Transfer A Roofing Warranty
Step 1: Work with a Qualified Roofing Contractor
Working with Roofing contractors can be a learning process for homeowners - especially if it’s their first experience with a roofing project. There are many nuances to the process of getting a roof replaced and repaired, but the most important first step is doing your research to ensure you are working with a licensed and insured contractor in your area. Each State has a different set of requirements and certifications for roofing contractors, so it’s important to understand your state's requirements before engaging with a roofing contractor. Contractors in the State of Florida require various assessments and licensing requirements to conduct business as roofing contractors. Only licensed contractors have the ability to uphold most manufacturer warranties.
What Is A Roof Warranty?
A roofing warranty is most commonly broken up into two types of coverage - manufacturer and workmanship. These are two distinct coverages because one will come from the installer of the roofing system (your roofing contractor) and one will come from the manufacturer of the roofing material.
A workmanship warranty typically ranges from 2-5 years and ensures that a roof is tested over time and that the installation was professionally done. Most cases of roof leaks or missed areas can be identified during the first weather event and can usually be fixed relatively effortlessly. Workmanship warranties will usually cover any aesthetic defects that can be attributed to the installation of the products. Shingle or underlayment buckling, mishaps with carpentry or painting, and other issues with quality are almost certainly covered in a workmanship warranty. NexGen Roofing provides some of the most comprehensive warranty coverage for workmanship and has an entire team dedicated to our customer care and quality assurance.
A manufacturer warranty largely varies depending on who the manufacturer is and what level of warranty is purchased from the company. For instance, Owens Corning Platinum Protection Limited Warranty is one of the most comprehensive warranties available today. Not only do you get a one-time transfer of the warranty to any future homeowner, but you will also have windspeed coverage of up to 150 mph, which includes standalone workmanship and product coverage for up to 50 years.
Why Would You Need To Transfer Your Roof Warranty?
One of the most asked questions we receive at NexGen Roofing is how warranties work. When can they be used, what do they cover, and most commonly, can they be transferred in the case of a home sale? These questions arise in various instances, but most recently, they have been asked in the context of a buyer or seller of a home needing to transfer their roof warranty to the new homeowner.
When NexGen Roofing is contracted to replace a roof on a home that is going to be sold upon completion of the project, we are required to receive a signed contract, notice of commencement, and permitting forms from the current homeowner. Whether that is the new buyer or not, we are only allowed to work for the existing homeowner because of state regulations. If the current homeowner is the seller of the home, they will have no use for our warranty offerings, so it will become necessary to transfer that warranty to the new homeowner as soon as possible so there is no lapse in coverage. This is a straightforward process if done correctly.
Most manufacturers require a transfer of the warranty within 90 days of the sale of the home. This is a simple process that can be handled by either the homeowner or the contractor but must be completed in a timely manner to mitigate the risk of the loss of a warranty. At NexGen Roofing, we handle all of our homeowners' warranty transfers at our customers' convenience.
In most cases, the workmanship warranty is made with the contractor and will not require any additional contracts to transfer. It is advisable to let your roofing system contractor know when you buy a new property and establish a relationship with them. From this, you can understand the age of your roof, the type of roof installed, and if there are any other warranties that you are entitled to as a new homeowner.
Why Are So Many Homeowners Replacing Their Roof Right Before Sale?
NexGen Roofing frequently handles situations in which home buyers and sellers are having difficulty closing on a property because they cannot get insurance coverage because of the age of their roof.
In Florida’s current climate with insurance and the mass exodus of carriers leaving the State, the requirements of getting coverage on your home have become much more stringent. With some carriers, a roof must be replaced within 10-15 years, no matter the condition. This poses a serious issue for most homeowners.
Teamed Up With You
At NexGen, we know that whether this is your first or tenth roofing project, every homeowner deserves the courtesy and respect of having a partner throughout the process to help navigate the complicated world of Roofing. That’s why we’re “Teamed Up With You.” Call us today for a no-obligation inspection or get an instant roof quote to learn which roofing system fits your individual needs.
