Is A Roof Leak Covered By Structural Warranty

Along with the foundation the roof is the element of the home most commonly assumed to be structural by the homeowner and for that reason warranty administration frequently receives roof leak inquiries from homeowners beyond the first year.

Is a roof leak covered by structural warranty.

In essence roof leaks will need to be fixed if they are the result of a major defect an incomplete job or a specific non structural defect covered by the insurance policy. Roofing materials warranty periods. This is because the problems caused by roof damage can lead to other more serious structural issues which are far more expensive to fix than a few shingles. Generally speaking sudden events that damage a well maintained roof and that lead to leaks will be covered by homeowners insurance.

Leaks due to more gradual events such as age rot normal wear and tear and inadequate maintenance are generally not covered. This warranty is lower cost than a full system. A structural warranty is in its simplest terms insurance for the structure of your new home that lasts around ten years depending on policy and provider. A home will only hold a structural warranty if during its construction it is regularly inspected by surveyors and meets the technical standards of the structural warranty provider.

There are some exceptions to these general principles. Roof leak coverage is not standard on all home warranties. It is most often offered as an add on option for standard or premium coverage. Lowest deductible with select roof leaks on single family homes are covered but patios metal roofs shingles and structural leaks aren t covered.

Also excluded are leak repair costs labor or coverage for installation errors. The roof membrane is the only material covered and other accessories like metal edging flashing adhesives and related materials are not included or covered. Select also doesn t cover repairs that require a partial or complete roof replacement. If a homeowner notices a problem with the roof like a leak which can be attributed to improper installation it may be covered by a workmanship warranty.

In dealing with shingles the warranties for asphalt shingle coverage is 20 years to life. Strip shingles have lower warranties and better top tier shingles can be. An installation that doesn t comply with a code requirement could also be repaired without cost under a workmanship warranty. Roof leaks are covered by home warranty if the tradesman or builder is solely responsible for the roof leak.

But even though this coverage is not always included it s a good idea to add it as it can save you hundreds potentially thousands in roof repairs and damage to your home.