Understanding Roof Warranties: What You Need to Know
The purchase of a new home is an exciting and worthwhile process. A new home is an investment in the future and an opportunity to establish roots — a dream come true for many Americans.
That said, homeownership comes with a host of new responsibilities. Protecting your home with a roof warranty should be high on the priority list. However, sorting through the fine print of a lengthy warranty contract can be daunting. It makes sense to enlist the help of a trusted roofing company in Tulsa — like Shamrock Roofing and Construction — before signing anything binding.
Here’s a short guide to help you navigate the basics of roof warranties. This should get you headed in the right direction when searching for a roof warranty.
What’s Covered?
Warranty companies differ widely on what they cover when it comes to the roof, so sorting through the fine print with your roofer is a must-do. Most warranties offer some reprieve for tangible damage (like torn shingles, dented flashing, or major leaks). More generous offerings include coverage for poor craftsmanship or improper installation.
Be forewarned: there’s a lot of fine print woven into every warranty contract, and there are some instances where coverage for even the most obvious damage is null and void. Make sure you know the details of what’s covered and what’s not before you sign on the dotted line.
Tricky Maintenance Clauses
One caveat to warranty coverage centers around maintenance. Insurance companies are businesses trying to make a profit, and they don’t want to pay out for negligence on the homeowner’s part. You might find that your contract stipulates proof of regular maintenance before any roof repair in Tulsa is covered. That’s why it’s a great idea to keep detailed records of any work, cleaning, or repairs you have completed on your home throughout the year. This way, you can demonstrate proof of responsible homeownership if you ever need to file a claim.
Denials for Unauthorized Improvements
Another thing to note when dealing with roofing warranties is that warranty companies often require homeowners to get prior authorization before embarking on any major roof upgrades. Additions like solar panels or skylights are often not part of the original contract. If you experience roof damage and the insurance company discovers these features were added without approval, you may be out of luck when you file a claim. The warranty company may use that lack of prior approval to deny your claim.
Other Problematic Print
It’s impossible to comment on every single caveat because each company compiles its own criteria for roof coverage. In general, it’s important to ask your warranty provider about any causes of damage that are excluded from coverage. Some companies stipulate that natural causes or negligence are reasons to void coverage or deny claims. Other establishments quote activities that are off-limits, like power-washing the roof or adding non-functional decor to the roof. These details are often non-negotiable and hidden deep within the contract. Work with a trusted roofing company in Tulsa to determine if any part of the contract will be difficult to uphold.
Are You Trying to Avoid Any Warranty Surprises? Call Shamrock Roofing to Sort Through the Details
If you’re worried about your claim for roof repair in Tulsa being denied, it’s time to put your worries aside. Shamrock Roofing and Construction will never set foot on your roof without making sure that there are no financial surprises. We frequently work with insurance companies and are happy to answer questions and help our customers navigate warranty contracts. We’ll even guide you through the claims process if necessary. Contact us today to learn more about our residential roofing services, ask questions about roof warranties, or schedule a free roof inspection. We look forward to working with you!